Naidu Reaffirms Support for TDP Activists and Families at Foundation Day Event
In a powerful address at the Telugu Desam Party's 44th foundation day program held at its central office in Mangalagiri, Chief Minister and TDP President N Chandrababu Naidu emphasized the party's unwavering commitment to its activists. He vowed continued recognition and support for families of those who endured hardships, sacrificed their lives, or lost properties while serving the party.
Call for Unity and Discipline in Party Ranks
Naidu called for unity, discipline, and stronger grassroots-level engagement among party members. He issued a blunt warning that leaders who neglect party workers have "no place" in the TDP. Underlining the importance of accountability, he stated that only those who work hard and deliver results would be recognized as people's representatives.
He highlighted the role of Nara Lokesh, the party's national general secretary and HRD minister, in identifying and encouraging grassroots-level workers. Naidu urged all leaders to uphold the party's credibility through their personal conduct and public life, asserting that "the party's strength is the state's strength." He cautioned against vindictive politics, stressing the need for ethical governance.
Recounting TDP's Legacy and Landmark Initiatives
Reflecting on the party's history, Naidu recounted the TDP's journey since its founding by NT Rama Rao, noting both victories and crises. He recalled the public uprising when NTR's government was dismissed and highlighted landmark initiatives such as the ₹2-per-kg rice scheme, property rights for women, and reservations for women in local bodies.
Naidu also mentioned that reforms in the power sector and the Development of Women and Children in Rural Areas (DWCRA) self-help groups became models for other states, showcasing the party's innovative governance approaches.
Tribute to Party Workers and Resilience Amid Challenges
Paying tribute to dedicated party workers, Naidu noted that many faced severe hardships, including loss of life and property, particularly during difficult periods such as after 2004 and under the YSRCP regime. He referred to his own imprisonment between 2019 and 2024, lauding Lokesh's "Yuva Galam" padayatra for continuing despite obstacles.
"Those who tried to finish the TDP have faded away, while the party has grown stronger," he remarked, reiterating that recognition and positions within the party would be based strictly on merit and commitment. He cited instances of providing government jobs to families of loyal cadre as examples of this support.
Focus on Development Projects and Future Goals
Naidu reiterated his commitment to completing the Polavaram project and developing Amaravati as a world-class "future city." He announced that projects launched in Amaravati would be completed by August 2028, firmly asserting, "One state, one capital — Amaravati."
On the power management front, he emphasized that electricity tariffs have not increased and assured there would be no hike in the future. He highlighted a strategic shift from "true up" to "true down" in power management, aiming for more efficient and affordable energy solutions for the state.
Event Highlights and Attendees
The foundation day event was attended by key party figures, including TDP national general secretary and HRD minister Nara Lokesh, state unit president Palla Srinivasa Rao, and other senior leaders. Later, Naidu hosted lunch for 44 party activists selected from across the state at his residence, symbolizing his personal engagement with grassroots workers.
Naidu also discussed the proposed delimitation and women's reservation, noting that these measures would create opportunities for the younger generation to enter electoral politics, further strengthening democratic participation in Andhra Pradesh.
