Naidu Urges PM Modi for Early Release of Funds for Key Andhra Projects

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, seeking prompt fund release for the Polavaram irrigation project and Amaravati capital city development. During his two-day visit to Delhi, Naidu also met Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and Jal Shakti Minister C R Patil.

Naidu expressed gratitude to Modi for the Rs 15,000-crore allocation for Amaravati's development announced in the Union Budget. He urged the Prime Minister to expedite the release of funds for the Polavaram project and requested a decision in the upcoming cabinet meeting to speed up its completion.

Discussions with Key Ministers

In his meeting with Amit Shah, Naidu discussed pending issues under the State Reorganisation Act. The Andhra CM also sought Special Assistance for Capital Investment (SACI) and the release of backward region grants for underdeveloped districts in Rayalaseema, Prakasam, and North Coastal regions.

Naidu's discussions with Finance Minister Sitharaman focused on structuring multilateral financial assistance for Amaravati. He emphasized the need for financial support to ensure the timely development of the capital city.

Focus on Polavaram Project

On Friday, Naidu met Jal Shakti Minister C R Patil to discuss the construction of the Polavaram project's diaphragm wall. Following a central government-appointed expert panel report, he called for improved Centre-State coordination to ensure timely and safe completion of the diaphragm wall and other project components.

The official statement mentioned that Naidu requested Central Water Commission (CWC) officers to fast-track approval for construction methodologies of the diaphragm wall, ECRF Dam, and associated works. This would help in accelerating the project's progress.

Political Context

The TDP chief was accompanied by a few TDP MPs and Union Ministers K Rammohan Naidu and Pemmasani Chandrasekhar during these meetings. The TDP, with 16 Lok Sabha MPs, is a key member of the ruling NDA.

Naidu's visit comes amid rising public debt in Andhra Pradesh, which has increased from 31.02 per cent of GSDP in 2019-20 to 33.32 per cent in 2023-24, according to official data. This financial strain underscores the urgency of securing additional funds for state projects.

The chief minister's efforts highlight his commitment to addressing critical infrastructure needs and ensuring balanced regional development across Andhra Pradesh. His meetings with top central leaders reflect a strategic approach to garnering support for key state projects.

Naidu's proactive engagement with central ministers aims to secure necessary resources and approvals to advance significant infrastructure projects in Andhra Pradesh. This approach is crucial for overcoming financial challenges and promoting sustainable development in the state.