Andhra Pradesh Government Outlines Priorities for Education and Infrastructure
In a series of announcements in the state assembly, Andhra Pradesh ministers addressed key issues ranging from educational infrastructure to water resource management and administrative challenges.
No Immediate Plans for IIIT in Puttaparthi, Focus on Existing Campuses
IT and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh made it clear on Thursday that there is currently no proposal to establish a new Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) in Puttaparthi. Instead, the government's immediate priority is completing the construction of permanent campuses and additional buildings for existing IIIT students at locations including Idupulapaya, Ongole, Nuzvid, and Srikakulam.
Responding to a query from member Palle Sindhura, Lokesh informed the House that proposals to upgrade facilities in various IIITs have already been submitted to the finance department. "The government is committed to strengthening infrastructure in schools and colleges, and works are expected to commence soon," he stated.
Lokesh further revealed that the state is examining the possibility of securing funds from the central government to upgrade IIITs through a newly announced scheme in the Union budget. While promising to take up the request for an IIIT in Puttaparthi with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu for consideration, he emphasized the current focus remains on enhancing existing institutions.
Water Resources Minister Addresses Tirupati's Growing Needs
Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu announced that the government will enhance water allocation to Tirupati city to match the rising population and increasing pilgrim inflow. He assured long-term planning to meet the city's water requirements.
Responding to a query raised by Tirupati MLA Arani Srinivasulu, the minister acknowledged a sharp increase in the number of devotees visiting the temple town, which is putting significant pressure on drinking water resources. "We will expedite the Galeru Nagari and Handri-Neeva irrigation projects to meet the growing demand," Ramanaidu assured the assembly.
Additionally, the minister informed the House that tenders for the Lobcharla Shiva Davala scheme, involving elevated pathways in Bobbili constituency, were cancelled and works halted during the previous YSRCP regime. The current government will review the project for potential revival.
Addressing Tribal Area Employee Transfer Backlog
Polavaram MLA Balaraju raised concerns about hardships faced by employees in tribal areas due to delays in transfers. Minister Sandhyarani attributed the backlog to pending court cases from the earlier administration and assured that efforts are underway to resolve the issue expeditiously.
She explained that previously all posts in tribal areas were reserved for Scheduled Tribes (STs). However, a government order issued by the previous TDP government was quashed by the Supreme Court during the YSRCP regime. "This led to employees being transferred to both tribal and non-tribal areas, creating the current administrative challenge," Sandhyarani clarified.
Municipal Chairman Disqualified for False Certificates
Municipal Administration Minister P Narayana informed the House that the Puttur municipal chairman was disqualified for securing the post using false caste verification certificates. Following due process and thorough scrutiny, the chairman was removed from the position two days ago, with further action under consideration by the authorities.
The assembly session highlighted the Andhra Pradesh government's multi-faceted approach to addressing infrastructure development, resource management, and administrative reforms across various sectors.
