Union Minister Champions "Double-Engine Government" for Andhra Pradesh's Development
Union Minister Pemmasani Chandrasekhar has strongly affirmed the government's dedication to leveraging central resources and opportunities to transform Andhra Pradesh into a fully developed state. Speaking to the media in Visakhapatnam on Sunday regarding the recent Union Budget, the minister described the administration as a genuine "double-engine government," focused on maximizing the utilization of central funds.
Budget Focus on Growth and Welfare
Chandrasekhar highlighted that the budget prioritizes economic growth, infrastructure enhancement, social welfare, and technological advancement. He pointed out that measures such as tax relief, GST simplification, and various reforms are significantly boosting business activities and public welfare. According to the minister, these initiatives have led to a notable decline in unemployment and poverty rates across the country.
Substantial Allocations for Andhra Pradesh
For Andhra Pradesh specifically, the minister detailed significant financial allocations from the central government:
- Rs 1,400 crore for the development of Amaravati
- Rs 10,000 crore dedicated to railway projects
- Rs 3,300 crore allocated for the Polavaram project
- Incentives for municipal bonds to enhance state revenue generation
Chandrasekhar emphasized that these allocations robustly support economic growth, infrastructure development, social welfare, and overall prosperity within the state.
National Progress Under Prime Minister Modi's Leadership
The minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership for the country's steady progress over the past twelve years, noting that significant reforms have benefited both businesses and ordinary citizens. Key achievements mentioned include:
- A 21% increase in the defense budget, with 75% of funds directed toward domestic manufacturing, boosting employment and innovation
- Defense exports soaring from Rs 600 crore to Rs 25,000 crore
- A 10% rise in budgets for highways and railways, with seven high-speed rail corridors under construction, including one that will benefit Andhra Pradesh
Advances in Rural Development and Social Sectors
In rural development, Chandrasekhar noted that the VB-G Ram G scheme has replaced the earlier MNREGA program, with funds increased to Rs 95,000 crore. Additionally, health and education budgets have seen a 10% increase, while allocations for state capital investments under SASCI have risen by 23%, reaching Rs 1.85 lakh crore.
The minister also highlighted substantial social improvements:
- Poverty rates have fallen from 29% to 11%, lifting approximately 25 crore people out of poverty
- About 4 crore houses have been constructed, primarily benefiting women and marginalized communities
Focus on Special Initiatives and Industries
Special attention is being given to the revival of the textile industry and the exploration of rare earth minerals. Initiatives like She Marts are empowering women entrepreneurs, while the Khelo India program is receiving higher funding to promote sports across the nation.
Chandrasekhar concluded by reiterating the government's unwavering commitment to ensuring that Andhra Pradesh fully capitalizes on central support to achieve comprehensive development and prosperity for all its residents.
