Tirupati: The State government has credited Rs 21.56 crore into the bank accounts of 14,375 auto, motor cab, and maxi cab drivers in Tirupati district under ‘Auto Driverla Sevalo’ scheme, reaffirming its commitment to worker welfare and self-reliance. Satya Prasad contrasted the current government’s initiative with the previous Vahana Mitra scheme, which offered Rs 10,000 per beneficiary. He said the earlier YSRCP government spent Rs 260 crore, while the present administration has increased total support to Rs 436 crore. Local MLA Arani Srinivasulu said the scheme was introduced to offset income challenges faced by auto drivers after the Stree Shakti programme, which provided free bus travel to women. District Collector Dr S Venkateswar said the State had launched the scheme despite financial constraints to ensure no compromise on welfare.