In Kadapa, 70-year-old Leelamma gently cleans a photograph of YSR as she recalls how Aarogyasri became a lifeline for her husband.
Without the scheme, she says, “We could never have afforded his heart operation.”
That simple memory captures why YSR continues to live in the hearts of people.
Even seventeen years after his demise, former Chief Minister Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy continues to leave an indelible imprint on the lives of millions of people across both Telugu states.
For a patient, he was a lifesaver. For a student, he opened the door to opportunity. For a pensioner, he was a helping hand. For a farmer, he represented a government that stood by them during difficult times.
YSR left behind a legacy that sought to strike a balance between welfare and development. Under YSR, promises were meant to be kept. When critics said free electricity for farmers was impossible, he went ahead and implemented it — and successive governments did not reverse the policy.
Many of his flagship programmes went on to become widely discussed models beyond Andhra Pradesh. Aarogyasri transformed access to healthcare for poor families, while the 108 ambulance service became a recognised model for emergency medical care.
He was also regarded as an able administrator whose administrative skills were acknowledged beyond political circles. In a recent podcast, Prof. Shamika Ravi, Member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), recalled how effectively MGNREGA was implemented in Andhra Pradesh, creating much-needed livelihoods for daily-wage workers and supporting rural families.
His commitment to irrigation was equally significant. Several major projects made substantial progress during his tenure. However, some remained unfinished for years. The ongoing Polavaram project and the recently completed Veligonda project are reminders of the infrastructure push undertaken during his time.
For many of his supporters, YSR’s legacy continues to represent welfare, development and people-centric governance.
They are once again pinning their hopes on Jagan, believing that he can carry forward YSR’s political and welfare legacy.
Dheeraj Pola, Phoenix , AZ
