Naidu’s ‘Rich adopt poor’ policy sparks criticism

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has ignited a firestorm of debate with his latest proposal urging the state’s wealthiest 10% to “adopt” the poorest 20% as part of his broader vision to eradicate poverty.

Tied to his ambitious Public-Private-People Partnership (P4) model and the upcoming Swarnandhra Vision-2047, the policy calls for direct involvement from the affluent in mentoring and uplifting the underprivileged.

Ugadi launch?

Naidu initially floated the concept last year during a virtual address to the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), positioning it as a strategy to bridge economic disparity. But as the launch date nears, the idea has resurfaced, met with everything from satire to serious scrutiny. There is a strong buzz is that he will be launching this scheme for the Ugadi festival 2025.

Trolling and memes

Online reactions have been swift and relentless. Critics have ridiculed the proposal, branding it as out-of-touch and impractical.

Skeptics argue that the plan is a “PR stunt” that shifts responsibility from the government to private citizens, failing to tackle systemic issues like unemployment and infrastructure deficits.

Political opponents, particularly from the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), have slammed the idea as a distraction from governance failures. “Naidu’s policies widened the rich-poor gap—now he wants the rich to fix what he broke!” a YSRCP leader said.

A political gamble or visionary step?

Despite the online mockery, the proposal has its share of supporters. Many see it as an innovative step toward social equity.

With the official details of the scheme set to be revealed within the week, speculation is rife: Will it offer financial incentives? Structured mentorship programs? Or is it simply a symbolic gesture? For now, Naidu’s ambitious idea remains caught in a whirlwind of ridicule, debate, and anticipation.