The process of streamlining social security pensions (YSR Pension Kanuka) in AP is worrying beneficiaries. According to a survey by Navasakam, the process to filter beneficiaries receiving pension has already begun. If two persons in a family have been availing YSR Pension Kanuka, henceforth only one person can avail. Also, the income limit will be monitored in order to avail pensions. The orders for the same have been issued by the AP Government. Instructions have also been given to wrap up the complete process by December 15th. Following the announcement, volunteers have swooped in to ascertain the eligibility criteria of beneficiaries receiving social security pensions. The government intends to wrap up the issue prior to the notification for local body polls.
How many beneficiaries will lose?
In Andhra Pradesh, around 60 lakh beneficiaries have benefited from YSR Pension Kanuka. These beneficiaries include old aged persons, widows and physically challenged persons. This costs the exchequer a whopping Rs 1400 crores on a monthly basis. It may be recalled that CM YS Jagan during his election campaign had promised to hike the pension amount from Rs 2000 to Rs 3000 phase-wise. As promised Rs 250 was increased in 2019-20 and for 2020-21, an amount of Rs 250 had to be increased by June, however, this hasn’t been implemented till date. The main reason behind this is the state government lacking funds. It must be noted that the votes of beneficiaries in the upcoming local body polls are significant.
Already, pensioners are questioning MLAs and Ministers regarding the promised hike of Rs 250. When the ministers expressed their concerns to CM about going for local body polls without increasing pensions, a new plan cropped up. It is said that plans are on to cut 10% of the pensions. and hence around 5 lakh pensions may be axed. Following the developments, even volunteers have swung into action.
Target TDP Sympathizers?
In AP, volunteers hold control and only those whom they recommend are eligible for government schemes. In addition, it is totally up to their discretion as to who should receive the pensions. For every 50 houses there is a single volunteer and they know exactly the political affiliation of every house. It is learnt that volunteers have decided to cut those houses from availing social security pension which does not vote for the YSRCP.