In a major relief for new mothers, the Andhra Pradesh government has officially decided to restart the "NTR Baby Kit" scheme, which provides essential items for newborns and mothers after delivery in government hospitals.
The initiative, first launched in 2016 under the TDP government, was discontinued in 2019. Now, the Chandrababu Naidu-led coalition government has revived it, aiming to ensure better maternal and infant health care across the state.
Kit Value: Around ₹2,000
Beneficiaries: Mothers who deliver in government hospitals across Andhra Pradesh
Implementation Budget: ₹51.14 crore sanctioned for the scheme revival
The updated NTR Baby Kit will now contain 13 essential items, up from the earlier 11. Two new additions - a foldable baby bed and a carry bag - have been included for better convenience and hygiene.
The inclusion of these items has slightly raised the overall kit cost from ₹1,410 to ₹1,954 per set.
Each kit will include:
Mosquito net
Blanket
Sleeping mat
Napkins and diapers
Antiseptic lotion
Baby soap and shampoo
Baby oil
Towels and clothing
Foldable bed (new addition)
Carry bag (new addition)
These items will be distributed free of cost to new mothers at the time of hospital discharge.
The government estimates that around 3.2 lakh mothers will benefit from the scheme every year. With the inclusion of new items, fresh tenders will soon be invited by APMSIDC (Andhra Pradesh Medical Services & Infrastructure Development Corporation) for procurement.
Once finalized, the kits will be distributed across all government maternity hospitals in the state.
The NTR Baby Kit program is designed to:
Encourage institutional deliveries
Support postnatal care for mothers and newborns
Reduce infant mortality rates by promoting hygiene and proper care practices