Amaravati, Oct 8 — Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi and sought the Centre’s support for major infrastructure projects in the state.
The Chief Minister raised several key issues concerning the development of Andhra Pradesh.
According to an official release here, he briefed the Prime Minister on major development projects in the State, its economic situation, and issues relating to agriculture and irrigation.
On irrigation, the Chief Minister discussed the latest status of the Polavaram project and explained the benefits of linking the Godavari and Cauvery rivers. He said that the Godavari–Cauvery river-linking project would ensure adequate water availability to the southern States of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
The Chief Minister said that road networks and power grids had been developed across the country under NDA governments and that taking forward the river-linking project could pave the way for the creation of a national water grid.
The Chief Minister said extensive arrangements were being made in Andhra Pradesh for the Godavari Pushkarams to be held in 2027. He requested the Prime Minister to provide financial assistance for the development projects being undertaken for the Pushkarams. He said devotees from not only the two Telugu States but also from across the country and abroad were expected to attend the Godavari Pushkarams.
The Chief Minister informed the Prime Minister that Andhra Pradesh had recorded 53 per cent deficit rainfall due to El Niño impact, which had severely affected the agricultural sector. He explained the measures being taken by the State Government to mitigate the impact of drought.
The Chief Minister sought the Centre’s support for major infrastructure projects in Andhra Pradesh, including the proposed Outer Ring Road in the capital Amaravati. He requested approval for the Visakhapatnam Metro and also briefed the Prime Minister on the proposed Beach Road project.
The Chief Minister also explained the objectives of the Swarna Andhra–2047 Vision, which seeks to ensure that the benefits of development reach all sections of society.
Chandrababu also briefed the Prime Minister on the objectives of the Global Horticulture Hub recently launched at Madanapalle with the support of the Centre. He informed him that the foundation stone had been laid for the Indian School of Agriculture, on the lines of the Indian School of Business.
Congratulating the Prime Minister on completing 25 years as head of the government, Chandrababu Naidu stated that he was transforming India into a global power through foresight, clear goals, decisive action and effective governance.
The Chief Minister praised PM Modi’s rare achievement in serving the nation and lauded his inspirational leadership as both Chief Minister and Prime Minister.
The Chief Minister particularly appreciated the Prime Minister’s emphasis on cooperative federalism, making the States partners in the journey towards Viksit Bharat. He said PM Modi had also enhanced India’s stature and credibility in international affairs.