CM Naidu Attacks Previous Regime, Details Fiscal Restructuring in Assembly Debate
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu utilized a debate on the Money Bill in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly to launch a sharp critique against the policies of the previous government while outlining a comprehensive plan for fiscal restructuring and development anchored in water security, capital revival, and welfare integration.
Fiscal Management and Debt Rescheduling
Naidu asserted that his administration has successfully "put the state back on track" over the past twenty months following what he described as "damaged systems" and "diverted central funds" under the earlier dispensation. He highlighted significant financial maneuvers, including the rescheduling of Rs 43,298 crore in debt, which he claimed resulted in savings of Rs 328 crore. Furthermore, steps are underway to reschedule an additional Rs 1 lakh crore, aimed at creating a Rs 1,658 crore cushion specifically for welfare programs.
Water and Power Infrastructure Achievements
On the critical fronts of water and power, Naidu detailed substantial investments and improvements. He reported that Rs 3,850 crore was spent on the Handri-Neeva project to extend water supply up to Kuppam. Notably, 55 TMC of water was moved to Anantapur, and reservoirs across the state are currently holding 628 TMC even after the onset of summer, indicating robust water management. The groundwater level has risen by 2.96 metres statewide, a positive indicator of conservation efforts.
In the power sector, Naidu emphasized that for the first time in history, the NDA government implemented a "true-down" mechanism, absorbing Rs 4,420 crore. This initiative helped reduce the power purchase price from Rs 5.19 to Rs 4.80 per unit. Additionally, the state government is aggressively advancing the installation of free rooftop solar panels for SC/ST households under the PM Surya Ghar scheme.
Capital Revival and Industrial Growth
Naidu declared that Amaravati is "back on track" with the support of the Central government and is projected to take shape within three years. He announced that MLAs and ministers will operate from the capital during future assembly sessions, reinforcing its status. He also claimed that the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant has returned to profitability with state support, marking a turnaround in key industrial assets.
Welfare Integration and Policy Initiatives
The Chief Minister introduced a Family Benefit Management System card designed to integrate Central and state welfare schemes, streamlining benefits for citizens. He highlighted that 25 new policies have mobilized investments worth ₹20 lakh crore, with the potential to create 23 lakh jobs, showcasing a robust economic strategy.
Naidu praised Deputy Chief Minister K Pawan Kalyan for completing 4,998 km of CC roads in 20 months, establishing goshalas and magic drains, and generating 9 crore person-days under the NREGS, underscoring infrastructural and employment progress.
Political Criticisms and Call for Accountability
Targeting the opposition, Naidu stated that factionism and Maoism have been eradicated from the state, accusing the opposition party of engaging in "rappa-rappa" politics. He launched a pointed attack on the previous regime over alleged adulteration of Tirumala laddu ghee, questioning why former Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy did not offer apologies. Naidu urged public representatives to avoid bringing disrepute to the government through their behavior, emphasizing ethical governance.
On the final day of the session, the assembly passed the Appropriation Bill and adopted a resolution on the Atmanirbhar–Viksit Bharat Sankalp, aligning with national development goals.
