Amaravati, March 19, 2026: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu launched the 'Divyang Shakti' scheme as a Ugadi gift, enabling free travel on Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) buses for individuals with 40% or more disability across 21 categories.
The initiative covers services like City Ordinary, Metro Express, Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu, and Express buses.
Attendants receive a 50% fare discount. It targets over 12.76 lakh beneficiaries, including 11.16 lakh persons with disabilities, backed by ₹207 crore in state funding.
The rollout happened statewide, with the Chief Minister and officials joining beneficiaries on rides. In Visakhapatnam, the scheme started at the Maddilapalem RTC Depot, emphasizing mobility, economic participation, and inclusion similar to the 'Stree Shakti' program for women.
