Promises Bold Reforms, Massive Investments, and a Visionary Approach to Development
Rayachoti, Andhra Pradesh, February 1: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has laid out an ambitious vision to transform the state into a poverty-free and economically self-reliant state by 2047. Addressing a gathering in Rayachoti, he detailed his government’s plans to revive irrigation projects, boost investments, enhance social security, and position Andhra Pradesh as a global hub for technology and innovation.
“My mission is clear—by 2047, no family in Andhra Pradesh should live in poverty. The previous administration left behind a broken economy, paralyzed governance, and ₹10 lakh crore in debt. Despite these challenges, we have already attracted ₹7 lakh crore in investments within just seven months and cleared ₹22,252 crore in pending dues,” Naidu asserted.
A New Era for Irrigation in Rayalaseema
A key focus of Naidu’s speech was the revival of irrigation projects in Rayalaseema, a historically drought-prone region. He vowed to complete the Godavari-Banakaracharla Project with Central Government support, ensuring irrigation for every acre of farmland.
“Had I been in power in 2019, I would have ensured that Handri-Neeva water reached Rayalaseema by 2020. Instead, the past government completely neglected irrigation, spending nothing for five years, leaving the region barren. We are now taking decisive steps to reverse that damage, starting with the immediate tendering of the Srinivasapuram Canal project,” he said.
Harnessing Technology: From IT to AI
Naidu, known for pioneering Hyderabad’s IT boom, is now setting his sights on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and remote work opportunities. He announced the establishment of five Tata Innovation Hubs, aimed at fostering a work-from-home economy that allows professionals to earn globally while living locally.
“Once, people doubted my vision for IT, but today, Telugu professionals are among the highest-earning communities worldwide. The average annual income of a Telugu individual in the US is $120,000, double the national average. Now, we must embrace AI and digital transformation to create more opportunities at home,” he said.
A Revival of Amaravati, Major Infrastructure Push
Naidu also reaffirmed his commitment to building Amaravati as Andhra Pradesh’s capital, calling it a “city of the gods” with historical significance.
“I built Hyderabad into a global city, and I will do the same for Amaravati. The central government has already sanctioned ₹12,000 crore for Polavaram, and funds have been allocated for industrial parks in Amaravati, Visakhapatnam, Kopparthi, and Orvakal. We will complete Polavaram by 2027,” he declared.
Social Security: Expanding Pensions and Welfare Programs
Naidu emphasized his government’s commitment to social security, highlighting the revival of Anna Canteens and free gas cylinders under the Deepam scheme.
“We are currently providing pensions to 64 lakh beneficiaries, spending ₹32,520 crore annually—the highest in India. No other state matches this commitment: Telangana spends ₹8,000 crore, West Bengal ₹5,400 crore, Karnataka ₹4,700 crore, Tamil Nadu ₹3,780 crore, and Gujarat ₹1,384 crore. Our pensions cover 28 categories, including the elderly, widows, disabled individuals, and weavers,” he said.
He also credited Minister Nara Lokesh for conceptualizing WhatsApp Governance, which now provides 161 essential government services directly to citizens.
More Than Promises – Delivering Results
Concluding his address, Naidu struck a confident tone, reaffirming his commitment to action over words.
“In just seven months, we have done more than we promised. We have cleared debts, restarted projects, and ensured that Andhra Pradesh remains an attractive destination for investors. We have a clear direction—creating jobs for 20 lakh people in the next five years, making Andhra Pradesh a global innovation hub, and ensuring that no citizen is left behind. This is not just a promise; this is our mission,” he stated.
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