Andhra Finance Minister Launches Scathing Attack on YSRCP, Presents Visionary Budget
In a fiery address during the state assembly debate on Thursday, Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav launched a blistering critique of the opposition YSRCP, accusing it of severely damaging Andhra Pradesh's fiscal stability. He asserted that the newly presented budget for the 2026-27 financial year is designed to propel the state forward on a robust developmental trajectory.
Budget Reflects Aspirations of Every Family
Keshav emphasized that the budget meticulously captures the hopes and needs of all citizens, ensuring that every household in Andhra Pradesh will reap tangible benefits. He drew sharp comparisons between the current administration and the previous YSRCP government, urging the public to discern the stark differences in governance approaches.
"Just as cigarette packs carry statutory health warnings, members of this House must consistently remind people that electing YSRCP is detrimental to the state's well-being," Keshav declared, using a powerful analogy to underscore his point.
Rebuilding Andhra Pradesh: Lessons from Israel
The finance minister invoked the example of Israel's remarkable reconstruction efforts, suggesting that Andhra Pradesh, which has faced separation twice and lacks a permanent capital, should draw inspiration to rebuild itself. He stressed the critical importance of governmental continuity for sustained development, appealing to voters to remember the slogan 'YSRCP never again' and to re-elect the coalition government.
"The NDA government and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu are synonymous with progress and development," Keshav affirmed, positioning the current leadership as the antidote to past mismanagement.
Exposing Fiscal Indiscipline and Legacy Debts
Keshav accused the YSRCP regime of rampant financial irresponsibility, revealing that it took two consecutive budgets to begin recovering from the economic chaos they allegedly created. He detailed how the previous administration left behind not just a legacy of unresolved issues but also substantial debts across every government department.
"They incurred reckless debts at exorbitant interest rates. Merely rescheduling these loans to lower rates has saved the state approximately Rs 2000 crore annually," he disclosed, highlighting the scale of the fiscal burden.
Revenue Increases Expose Past Corruption
The finance minister pointed to significant revenue growth in key sectors as evidence of prior malpractices. He noted a 33% increase in mining department revenues without opening new mines and a 24% rise in excise department income despite maintaining the same number of shops.
"Every citizen knows what transpired in mining and excise under YSRCP rule. These revenue surges clearly indicate that public funds were plundered from both departments," Keshav asserted, linking the improvements to tighter governance.
Visionary Economic Regions and Horticulture Hub
Keshav praised Chief Minister Naidu's strategic vision, which includes establishing Amaravati and Tirupati as economic regions, modeled after the Visakhapatnam economic region developed by Niti Aayog. This initiative aims to ensure balanced and equitable development across all regions of Andhra Pradesh.
Additionally, he highlighted plans to transform Rayalaseema into a premier horticulture hub, capitalizing on the high demand for its fruits in European markets, thereby boosting agricultural exports and local economies.
Countering Criticism on Land Allotments and Projects
Responding to YSRCP's allegations regarding land allocations to corporations, Keshav listed several major companies—such as Kia, Hero, HCL, and Ashok Leyland—that commenced operations on lands allotted during the TDP's previous tenure. He also announced upcoming investments from firms like Google, TCS, Cognizant, and ArcelorMittal.
"No significant companies established operations during the YSRCP regime. Moreover, land allotments made under Jagan Mohan Reddy's father's administration ultimately resulted in scandals," he countered, defending the current government's industrial policies.
Regarding the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Project, Keshav dismissed opposition claims that the present government stalled it. He clarified that the YSRCP administration had informed the National Green Tribunal that the project was not under construction and only a detailed project report was being prepared.
"How can they accuse us of halting a project that was never actually initiated for execution?" he questioned, challenging the basis of the criticism.
