Andhra TDP MP Offers ₹50,000 for Third Child, Cow for Baby Boy Amid Population Push

Amaravati: In a major push to increase the birth rate, TDP MP from Vizianagaram, Kalisetti Appala Naidu, announced a ₹50,000 cash incentive for women giving birth to a third child. He also declared that a cow would be gifted if the newborn was a boy.

The announcement came after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP President Chandrababu Naidu advocated incentives for larger families, citing concerns over the declining population in South India.

MP’s Offer Sparks Debate, Goes Viral Online

Appala Naidu pledged to pay the cash reward from his own salary, making his offer go viral on social media. TDP leaders and activists widely shared the announcement, calling it a "revolutionary step" that could boost family growth.

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu praised the MP for his initiative, reinforcing the TDP's stance on promoting population growth.

The announcement was made at a Women's Day event at Rajiv Sports Compound in Vizianagaram on Saturday, where the MP addressed a gathering.

Chandrababu Naidu Shifts Stance on Population Growth

During his visit to Delhi in March, Chandrababu Naidu expressed concerns over South India's declining birth rate, contrasting it with states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, which have a younger demographic.

"I used to advocate family planning. Now I am changing my views and promoting the population. India has the biggest advantage in the demographic dividend. If we can manage it well, India will be great. The global community is depending on Indians for services," Naidu stated.

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Maternity Leave Extended for All Women Employees

Furthering his pro-family policies, the Chief Minister announced on Saturday that maternity leave will now apply to all childbirths, regardless of the number of children.

Speaking at an International Women's Day programme in Markapur, Prakasam district, Naidu said, "Previously, maternity leave was limited to two children. Now, we are extending it to cover all children, regardless of the number. This move encourages family growth, supports population balance, and helps women manage their careers and personal lives."

He later reiterated his stance on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the government was committed to "empowering women and building a stronger future for Andhra Pradesh."

Mixed Reactions to the Policy Shift

While TDP leaders have backed the initiative, the offer of a cow for a male child has drawn criticism, with some calling it gender-biased. Others have questioned whether monetary incentives alone can address population concerns.

With elections approaching in Andhra Pradesh, the TDP’s shift in policy on population growth is expected to remain a key debate in the coming months.