Andhra: 2,33,719 village volunteers to receive cash awards

Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh government will distribute Rs. 243.34 crores as cash awards to 2,33,719 volunteers as a token of appreciation for ensuring that the benefits of various welfare programmes reached people’s doorsteps.

On 19 May, Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy formally inaugurated the presentation of Seva Mitra, Seva Ratna, and Seva Vajra awards to the best village and ward secretariat volunteers.

The felicitation programme will continue for 10 days across the state.

Under the programme implemented for the third consecutive year, a certificate, shawl, and badge along with a cash prize of Rs. 10,000, Rs. 20,000, and Rs. 30,000 are presented to the Seva Mitra, Seva Ratna, and Seva Vajra volunteers while medals will also be given to the best volunteers in the last two categories.

While 2,28,624 volunteers have been selected for the Seva Mitra awards, Seva Ratna and Seva Vajra awards will be presented to 4,220 and 875 volunteers, respectively.

Addressing the gathering of volunteers, the chief minister said the volunteers are extending the benefits of nearly 25 welfare programmes to lakhs of eligible beneficiaries selflessly and with unflinching commitment. “You are just like the tulasi plant in the backyard,” he said praising them.

Some of the volunteers who received the awards from the chief minister also narrated their experiences of working as volunteers.