Naidu Announces Parliamentary Push for Amaravati Capital Status and AP Development
In a significant development for Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) supremo Chandrababu Naidu has revealed that a Bill is likely to be introduced in Parliament during the upcoming budget session to provide legal sanctity to Amaravati as the capital of the state. This announcement came during the Telugu Desam Parliamentary Party meeting held at the camp office in Vijayawada on Sunday, where Naidu outlined a comprehensive strategy for the state's interests in the national legislature.
Strategic Directions for TDP MPs in Budget Session
Naidu chaired the meeting and directed party MPs to intensify their efforts to mobilise Central funds for both ongoing and proposed development works across Andhra Pradesh. He emphasised the need for MPs to remain alert and proactive during the forthcoming Parliament budget session, scheduled from January 28 to April 2, to effectively safeguard the state's interests. The Chief Minister outlined key issues that must be prioritised, instructing MPs to engage directly with Union ministers and senior officials to secure financial allocations.
During the session, MPs were told to ensure adequate allocations for Andhra Pradesh projects, with a focus on:
- Special packages for the backward regions of North Andhra and Rayalaseema
- The Purvodaya initiative aimed at accelerating development in eastern India
- The critical Polavaram–Nallamala Sagar irrigation projects
Focus on Polavaram Project and Funding Requirements
Naidu highlighted that revised estimates for the Polavaram project have already been submitted to the Centre. He stressed that apart from the construction aspects, the rehabilitation and resettlement of affected communities must be completed comprehensively. The Chief Minister noted that an additional Rs 12,000 crore is yet to be released by the Central government for this mega project. He set an ambitious timeline, stating that completing Polavaram before the Godavari Pushkarams in June 2027 would be ideal for the state's development trajectory.
Inter-State Relations and Development Priorities
Addressing potential disputes, Chandrababu Naidu asserted that there is no need for conflicts with neighbouring states. He directed MPs to firmly present Andhra Pradesh's case in Parliament, pointing out that the state has never objected to Telangana's Kaleshwaram project or the diversion of Manjira waters. Naidu described objections to permissions for the Nallamala Sagar project as unjustified, urging a cooperative approach to regional development.
On the capital front, the Chief Minister confirmed that Amaravati construction has been accelerated, with the second phase of development set to begin soon. He added that development works worth Rs 40,000 crore are planned under the Purvodaya project, highlighting the scale of infrastructure and economic initiatives underway in the state.
Operational Instructions for Parliamentary Engagement
Naidu provided specific operational guidance to TDP MPs, including:
- Participating virtually in the district collectors' conference scheduled for February
- Taking direct responsibility for securing funds for priority projects and constituency-specific issues
- Maintaining constant vigilance during budget discussions to protect Andhra Pradesh's financial interests
The meeting underscored the TDP's commitment to leveraging parliamentary processes for Andhra Pradesh's development, with Amaravati's capital status and substantial infrastructure funding at the forefront of the political agenda.
