Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy (1949-2009)

Yeduguri Sandinti Rajasekhara Reddy, popularly known as YSR, was a prominent Indian politician and the Chief Minister of the state of Andhra Pradesh from 2004 until his untimely death in a helicopter crash in 2009. He was born on July 8, 1949, in the Pulivendula village of Andhra Pradesh, India, to Y. S. Raja Reddy and Jayamma.

Early Life and Education:

YSR Reddy was brought up in a family of farmers and educated in a government school in his village. After completing his schooling, he joined the Government Arts College in Kadapa and obtained his Bachelor's degree in Science. He later completed his MBBS degree from the Kurnool Medical College in Andhra Pradesh. After finishing his medical studies, he worked as a medical practitioner in his hometown for a brief period.

Political Career:

YSR Reddy started his political career in 1978 when he was elected as a member of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly from the Pulivendula constituency. He was subsequently re-elected to the Assembly in 1983, 1985, and 1989. In 1999, he was elected to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian Parliament, from the Kadapa constituency.

In 2004, YSR Reddy became the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh after leading his party, the Indian National Congress, to a landslide victory in the state assembly elections. He was re-elected as the Chief Minister in 2009.

As Chief Minister, YSR Reddy implemented several popular schemes such as the Arogyasri scheme, which provided free healthcare to the poor, the Rajiv Aarogyasri Community Health Insurance Scheme, which provided health insurance to the rural poor, and the Indiramma Housing Scheme, which aimed to provide housing to the rural poor.

YSR Reddy was also instrumental in the development of the state's infrastructure, including the construction of new airports, seaports, and highways. He played a key role in the establishment of several Special Economic Zones in the state, which attracted significant investment and led to the creation of thousands of new jobs.

Helicopter Crash and Legacy:

On September 2, 2009, YSR Reddy's helicopter went missing while flying over the Nallamalla forest area in Andhra Pradesh. After an extensive search operation, the wreckage of the helicopter was found on a hilltop, and it was confirmed that YSR Reddy, along with four others, had died in the crash.

YSR Reddy's death was a significant loss to the state of Andhra Pradesh and the Indian National Congress. He was widely regarded as a visionary leader who had brought about significant development and progress in the state during his tenure as Chief Minister. He was also known for his down-to-earth personality and his concern for the welfare of the poor.

Several tributes have been paid to YSR Reddy since his death. In 2010, the Andhra Pradesh government established the YSR Congress Party, which is currently led by his son, Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy. The state government has also renamed several schemes and institutions in his honor, including the Rajiv Aarogyasri Community Health Insurance Scheme, which was renamed the YSR Aarogyasri Scheme.

Conclusion:

YSR Reddy was a charismatic leader who left an indelible mark on the state of Andhra Pradesh. His commitment to the welfare of the poor and his vision for development and progress earned him the respect and admiration of people across the state and the country. His legacy continues to inspire many young leaders in India, and his contributions to the state of Andhra Pradesh will.