The coalition government draws inspiration from the ideals and fighting spirit of freedom fighter and veteran Backward Classes (BC) leader Sardar Gouthu Latchanna and implements welfare and development programmes aimed at the social, economic and political empowerment of BC communities, Ministers S. Savitha, Anagani Satya Prasad, Kollu Ravindra, Kolusu Parthasarathi and K. Atchannaidu said on Sunday.

Speaking at the State-level birth anniversary celebrations of Sardar Gouthu Latchanna, organised by the BC Welfare Corporation at Thummalapalli Kalakshetram in Vijayawada, they said the State government had been observing his birth anniversary as a State festival in recognition of his contribution to the freedom movement and his lifelong struggle for the rights of BCs, farmers and workers.

Ms. Savitha said Latchanna was born on August 16, 1909, in a poor Gouda family at Baruva village in Srikakulam district. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s call, he joined the freedom movement at the age of 21 and faced imprisonment for participating in the struggle against British rule. She said Latchanna fought throughout his life for the rights of oppressed sections, BCs, farmers and workers. His public service, patriotism and fighting spirit continued to inspire generations, she added.

She said following Latchanna’s ideals, the State had accorded priority to the educational and economic advancement of BC communities. BC residential educational institutions were being expanded across the State as education was a key instrument for social mobility. She said 10% reservation had been provided in liquor outlets for members of the Geetha community to encourage entrepreneurship.

Mr. Satya Prasad recalled Latchanna’s 1,600-km padayatra from Srikakulam to Chennai in support of farmers. He said Latchanna continued fighting for the rights of disadvantaged communities even after Independence.

Law for BC protection

Mr. Ravindra said the government wanted to give BCs a greater role in governance and that steps were being taken to strengthen BC representation in local bodies. He informed that a BC Protection Act would be introduced soon.

Mr. Parthasarathi called for unity among BC communities and cautioned against attempts to divide them. He said the government’s objective was not limited to pensions and welfare schemes but extended to the comprehensive development of BC communities.

MLA Gouthu Sireesha said her grandfather Latchanna had followed value-based politics and played a key role in raising issues concerning the public.

Cash awards for students

As part of the celebrations, the Anagani Satya Prasad Charitable Trust presented cash awards worth ₹25 lakh to 125 Gouda community students who excelled in Class X and Intermediate examinations. Ms. Savitha, Mr. Satya Prasad and Mr. Atchannaidu distributed the awards.

MLAs Gadde Rammohan Rao and Kumar Varma, APSRTC Chairman Konakalla Narayana Rao, BC Welfare Department Secretary Satyanarayana, Director Mallikarjuna, BC Corporation Chairpersons and Directors, State BC Welfare Association president K. Shankara Rao and representatives of the Gouda community attended the programme.

Published - August 16, 2026 09:41 pm IST