AP Govt Clears ₹10,120 Crore For 'Thalliki Vandanam' Scheme To Support Mothers And Students

In a major decision aimed at easing the financial burden of schooling on families, the Andhra Pradesh Government led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has accorded administrative sanction of ₹10,120.78 crore for the implementation of the flagship 'Thalliki Vandanam' (Salutation to Mother) scheme. Under this welfare program, the state government provides financial assistance of ₹15,000 per student annually, paid directly into the Aadhaar-linked bank accounts of mothers or legal guardians.

A key highlight of the 'Thalliki Vandanam' scheme is its universal coverage. Unlike previous educational aid schemes that restricted benefits to only one child per household, this initiative extends financial assistance to every eligible child in a family studying from Class 1 to Class 12, including Intermediate courses. The scheme covers students enrolled across government schools, government-aided institutions, residential schools, as well as recognized private unaided schools across the state.

Out of the ₹15,000 allocated per student, ₹13,000 is directly credited to the mother via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to assist with school uniforms, textbooks, stationery, and daily transport costs. The remaining ₹2,000 per student is deducted at source to be spent on improving school infrastructure, sanitation, and hygiene across educational institutions. To be eligible, families must satisfy state welfare criteria—such as holding a valid Rice Card—and students must maintain a minimum of 75% attendance.

With over 67.47 lakh students and 42.70 lakh mothers set to benefit, Chief Minister Naidu stated that the program works hand-in-hand with state-wide Mega Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs). By actively involving parents and providing direct cash transfers, the government aims to boost school enrollment, curb dropouts, and raise overall educational standards across Andhra Pradesh.