A Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Lok Sabha member from Andhra Pradesh has offered Rs 50,000 each to women giving birth to a third child. The MP from Vizianagaram, Kalisetty Appalanaidu, also announced that a cow would also be presented to the woman if she delivered a boy.
Addressing an event on International Women’s Day, the Lok Sabha member announced that if a woman gives birth to a third child who is a girl, Rs 50,000 will be paid to her from his salary, and if that child is a boy, a cow will be handed over to her.
Promising to extend this offer to every woman in his constituency, Appalanaidu recalled that he was encouraged by several women in politics and life, including his mother, wife, sisters and daughter.
The announcement comes as senior TDP leaders, including Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, discuss the need to increase the state's young population.
During his visit to Delhi in March, the AP CM raised concern over the declining population in South India, saying its ageing population poses challenges, whereas states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have a younger demographic.
"I used to advocate family planning. Now, I am changing my views and promoting the population now. India is one country with the biggest advantage in terms of demographic dividends. If we can manage demographic dividend for the future, India and Indians will be great. Global communities are depending on us, Indians for global services," he said.
On Saturday, AP CM Naidu announced that maternity leave will be granted to all women employees during child delivery time irrespective of the number of children they have. "Previously, maternity leave was limited to two children. Now, we are extending maternity leave to cover all children, regardless of the number. This move aims to encourage family growth, address population balance, and support women in balancing their professional and personal lives. We are committed to empowering women and building a stronger future for Andhra Pradesh," he posted on 'X'.
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