By Amaravati, May 13, 2025 – In a major decision hailed by many across the state, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Jana Sena Party (JSP) leader Pawan Kalyan has announced a complete waiver of property tax for houses owned by defence personnel in rural areas. The move is being described as a gesture of deep respect and gratitude toward soldiers and their families, who have dedicated their lives to the service of the nation.
A First-of-Its-Kind Move in Andhra Pradesh
This is the first time such a tax relief has been officially extended to defence families in rural areas of Andhra Pradesh. The announcement covers Army, Navy, Air Force, and retired personnel who own homes in gram panchayats (villages). The waiver includes both serving and retired soldiers, offering a substantial financial relief, especially to those living on pensions and limited incomes.
Addressing the media at the state secretariat, Pawan Kalyan said, “This is the least we can do to recognize the sacrifice made by our jawans and their families. They defend our borders day and night; waiving property tax is a small token of our respect.”
Strengthening Rural Welfare and Patriotism
The decision is expected to benefit thousands of defence personnel families residing in rural areas. Many of these families chose to settle in villages after retirement, often on ancestral land or in modest homes. The property tax, although not very high, had become a burden for some retired soldiers, especially those from lower ranks.
The waiver reflects Pawan Kalyan’s long-standing commitment to veterans’ welfare and rural empowerment. During his election campaign, he promised better benefits for defence families and asserted that their service must be recognized beyond ceremonial honors.
Welcomed Across Political Lines
Interestingly, the announcement has been welcomed even by members of opposition parties. Many local leaders have acknowledged the nobility of the decision and urged the state government to consider extending similar benefits to widows of martyrs and paramilitary personnel.
YSRCP MLA M. Ramesh said, “Although we differ politically, this is a good decision. Soldiers deserve our support, and it should be non-political.”
Orders Issued to Panchayats for Immediate Implementation
Following the announcement, the state government has issued official instructions to all gram panchayats and rural local bodies to immediately implement the property tax exemption for eligible families. Panchayat secretaries have been directed to maintain updated records of serving and retired defence personnel to ensure smooth execution.
A senior official from the Panchayat Raj Department said, “Verification processes will be kept simple. Defence ID cards, pension books, or service certificates will be accepted as proof. There will be no need for multiple visits or lengthy paperwork.”
Boost to Jana Sena’s Pro-People Image
The move comes at a time when the JSP-BJP alliance has gained significant momentum in Andhra politics. Pawan Kalyan, long admired for his clean image and advocacy of people’s causes, is now being seen as a leader who not only promises but delivers.
Political analysts say this decision could strengthen JSP’s support in rural Andhra, especially in districts like East and West Godavari, Srikakulam, and Vizianagaram, where many defence families reside.
Voices from the Defence Community
The defence community in Andhra Pradesh expressed heartfelt gratitude for the decision. Subedar (Retd.) N. Prasad, from Guntur district, said, “For the first time, we feel that our service is being acknowledged in a real way. I thank Pawan Kalyan sir from the bottom of my heart.”
Veeramata Seva Sangham, an NGO supporting families of martyred soldiers, also praised the decision and demanded its extension to urban households as well.
Looking Beyond the Waiver
While the waiver is a commendable step, defence advocates are calling for a comprehensive welfare package, including better health insurance, special housing schemes, and reservation in rural development programs for defence families.
Former Army officer and welfare activist Col. Venkatesh Rao (Retd.) said, “Property tax waiver is a good beginning, but we urge the government to consider more structured benefits. Many retired jawans face difficulty reintegrating into civilian life.”
A Step Toward a More Respectful Society
This initiative sends a strong message that the sacrifices of our armed forces will not go unrecognized. By offering tangible support, Pawan Kalyan has set a precedent that other states may soon follow. In a country where symbolic tributes are common, such actionable policies make a lasting impact.
Political observers note that this kind of governance fosters a sense of belonging and trust among soldiers and their families, who often feel disconnected after retirement.
Conclusion
With this property tax waiver, Pawan Kalyan has once again shown that governance can be empathetic, responsive, and people-first. The initiative not only honors the brave hearts of India but also strengthens the fabric of rural Andhra by valuing its veteran citizens.
As implementation begins across villages, the hope is that this decision inspires more leaders to recognize the real heroes of the nation—not just with words, but with action.
