Andhra auto workers protest unmet aid promise, call for action

Business Nov 15, 2025

Autorickshaw drivers in Vijayawada hit the streets on Saturday, asking the government to deliver on Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's promise of ₹15,000 yearly support.
D. Srinivasa Rao from the IFTU Auto Workers's Union pointed out that only about 2.9 lakh out of over 8.4 lakh drivers have actually received help through the Vahana Mitra scheme.

Most drivers still waiting; unions want more support

That leaves more than 5.5 lakh drivers still empty-handed, despite Naidu's pledge to provide support to all drivers.
Protesters also noted that just ₹400 crore has been released so far—way short of the ₹1,200 crore needed for all eligible drivers.
Union leaders are pushing for a welfare board and lower fuel prices to make things easier for auto worker families.