Andhra CM directs hostels to be ready before schools reopen; pushes monitoring, infrastructure upgrades

Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on Monday directed officials to ensure that all government welfare hostels are fully equipped and operational ahead of the reopening of schools in June.

Reviewing various departments from the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS) at the Secretariat, the CM stressed that hostels must function efficiently with all facilities in place and that there should be no complaints from students. "Ensure that all government welfare hostels are fully equipped with necessary facilities and ready by the time schools reopen in June," Naidu said in a press release.

The CM noted that funds have already been allocated under relevant schemes for improving hostel infrastructure. Naidu stressed the need for continuous monitoring, proper maintenance and regular inspections by senior officials of food quality, drinking water supply, cleanliness and hygiene.

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Reviewing issues in urban areas, he directed officials to ensure an uninterrupted drinking water supply and proper street lighting, especially in sensitive areas, along with improved drainage systems and regular garbage collection. The TDP supremo said municipal commissioners would be issued clear guidelines and their performance would be continuously monitored.

The CM noted that initiatives like 'Swachh Survekshan' (national cleanliness survey) must be visibly reflected in cities. According to Naidu, Tadipatri is a role model in sanitation due to proactive leadership and public awareness. He further asserted that crimes against women must be dealt with strictly. He said drug-related activities have declined significantly, adding that Odisha is studying the "Eagle" anti-drug system for adoption.

Naidu also emphasised fostering innovation among students through the Ratan Tata Innovation Hub (RTIH), suggesting its integration with MSME parks across all 175 constituencies to build a strong innovation ecosystem. Noting that companies like NVIDIA are ready to collaborate with the state, he said they can help create a robust technology ecosystem. Reviewing healthcare, Naidu proposed pilot projects to deliver health services through drones in agency areas, among other directives.