In a significant move aimed at transforming student welfare, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated the statewide 'Mustabu' program on Saturday. The launch event was held at the Tallapalem Social Welfare Residential School in Anakapalli district, marking a pivotal step in the government's focus on holistic student development.
Personal Hygiene as a Foundation for Growth
Chief Minister Naidu personally inspected the methods of maintaining personal hygiene among students during the inauguration. He emphasized that sometimes, small ideas can pave the way for substantial development. The 'Mustabu' program, which translates to 'decorated' or 'ready,' is designed to instill discipline, health, and self-confidence among the young population.
Naidu interacted with students at the residential school, stating that the government has undertaken this initiative to enhance personal hygiene, health, and self-confidence. "Students should study neatly with a proper uniform," he remarked, highlighting the link between outward discipline and inward focus. The program, initially launched experimentally in Parvathipuram Manyam district on the collector's initiative, has now been approved for statewide implementation.
Statewide Rollout for Millions of Students
The scale of the program is vast, aiming to cover approximately 7.5 million (75 lakh) students studying up to the intermediate level in both government and private schools across Andhra Pradesh. Naidu pointed out that the government is executing the Mustabu program without requiring significant additional expenditure, showcasing an innovative approach to achieving results.
"Programs like Mustabu instill leadership qualities along with personal hygiene. Combing hair neatly and washing hands before meals contribute to good health," the Chief Minister explained. He connected these daily habits to broader life goals, urging students to start working towards their ambitions from a young age. "Students are assets to the state. Students should become part of the knowledge economy," Naidu added, expressing his aspiration for all students to excel in securing good jobs and employment.
Integrated Approach to Student Welfare
The Mustabu program is part of a larger ecosystem of student support schemes. Naidu reminded the audience that the government provides financial assistance under the 'Mother's Blessing' scheme, along with free textbooks, uniforms, and meals. He also announced an upcoming initiative to examine the health of all 7.5 million students in the state, ensuring they receive nutritious food to remain healthy.
Praising the efforts of Education Minister N Lokesh in bringing innovative reforms, Naidu stated that ministers from various departments are collaborating to shape the students' future. "The government takes the responsibility of turning the future of students into a golden future. Some ideas bring revolutionary changes among everyone. Mustabu is such a program," he declared, justifying the decision for a statewide rollout.
Following the school event, the Chief Minister participated in the Swachh Andhra-Swarna Andhra program. He flagged off newly introduced Swachh Raths and, under the Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, laid the foundation stone for development projects worth Rs. 68.25 crore. These projects include plastic waste management units, faecal sludge treatment plants, Gobar Dhan plants, and grey water management constructions, further cementing the state's commitment to cleanliness and public health.
