YSR was a legendary leader who changed millions of lives, says YS Sharmila

APCC President YS Sharmila and family members offer prayers at YSR Ghat in Idupulapaya, Kadapa district on Wednesday on the 77th birth anniversary of YS Rajasekhar Reddy. | Photo credit: Special arrangement

Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president YS Sharmila Reddy has called her father and former chief minister late YS Rajasekhar Reddy a “legendary leader” who impacted the lives of millions during his brief five-year tenure as chief minister.

Paying homage at the YSR Ghat in Idupulapaya in Kadapa district on Wednesday (July 8, 2026), on the occasion of his 77th birth anniversary, she recalled Arogyasri, 108 rescue service, fee refund and Jalayagnam as some of his pet schemes that turned the lives of the poor around for the better.

YSR is a legendary leader. He has no death. Mahaneta worked as Chief Minister for only 5 years. Its plans and developments are not lacking in the two Telugu states. Every program like Arogya Shri, payment of dues, free electricity, Jalayagnam was implemented with heart. YSR… pic.twitter.com/osEaydYoAU

— YS Sharmila (@realyssharmila) July 8, 2026

Calling him a champion of farmers, she said the farm loan waiver and free power for agriculture had improved the lives of farmers who, she said, were till then affected by monsoon vagaries, high input costs, lower margins and lack of government intervention.

Ms Sharmila later joined her family members, including her mother YS Vijayamma, in celebrating her father’s birthday by cutting a cake.

“The family of Rajasekhar Reddy takes this opportunity to express their gratitude to the millions of people who remember him today,” it said in a statement.

Published – 8 Jul 2026 14:10 IST