Why in News?
The Andhra Pradesh government announced the launch of a Free Power Scheme for Weavers from April 1, 2026. The scheme aims to provide financial relief and livelihood support to handloom and power loom workers.
AP Free Power Scheme:
- Scheme Launch Date: April 1, 2026
- Electricity Benefit:
- Handloom weavers: Free power up to 200 units/month
- Power loom weavers: Free power up to 500 units/month
- Total Beneficiaries: 1,03,534 families
- Handloom families: 93,000
- Power loom families: 10,534
Additional Welfare Measures
- Weaver Pension Enhancement:
- Increased from ₹3,000 to ₹4,000 per month
- Applicable for weavers aged 50 years and above
- Beneficiaries: 87,280 individuals
