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Hindustan Times
34 minutes ago
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Naidu to complete one year in office, faces balancing act
The Telugu Desam Party-led government in Andhra Pradesh, which completes one year in office next week (June 12), has its task cut out to revive the economy of the state without compromising on the implementation of the welfare agenda. Chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu, a seasoned politician, sounded confident of bringing the state's financial prudence back on track. 'Brick by brick, we are rebuilding the devastated state. In just one year, we've shown what good governance looks like,' Naidu, who is also the TDP president, said while addressing his party's conclave, Mahanadu, in Kadapa on May 29. His government was working to enhance the image of the Telugu state by attracting the attention of global investors. The Opposition YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), however, described the one-year regime as a big failure and a betrayal of the people's mandate. 'The government has gone back on its poll promises. In a span of one year, the people are vexed with the coalition government,' YSRCP chief Jagan Mohan Reddy said on Tuesday, calling upon the people to observe the 'Betrayal Day' on June 4. Having secured a landslide mandate a year ago on June 4, sweeping the assembly polls by winning 164 out of the 175 seats, the TDP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), also comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the JanaSena Party, has generated high expectations among the people. The coalition also swept the Lok Sabha polls, winning 21 out of 25 seats, dealing a massive blow to the former CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led YSR Congress Party, which could get only 11 assembly and four Lok Sabha seats. Priorities drawn Returning to CM position for the fourth time, Naidu began his latest tenure on a positive note by substantially increasing pensions, as promised before the polls, and also revoking the controversial land titling law introduced by his predecessor. He also revived Anna Canteens and fulfilled the promise of supplying three free gas cylinders annually to poor women. However, financial constraints posed challenges to fulfilling other promises, such as free bus travel for women, payments of ₹20,000 to farmers under the Annadata Sukhibhava scheme, ₹15,000 to women under the Thalliki Vandanam scheme, ₹1,500 under the Adabidda Nidhi scheme, and an unemployment allowance of ₹3,000 for jobless youth. Last week, Naidu announced he would implement Annadata scheme from this Kharif season, Thalliki Vandanama from the coming academic year and free bus travel for women from August 15. Unlike his predecessor Reddy, who focussed mainly on implementing direct benefit transfer (DBT) schemes, Naidu has his own priorities — reviving the abandoned Amaravati capital city project and completion of Polavaram major irrigation project. 'Fortunately for Naidu, his timely alliance with the BJP before the last elections has helped him gain substantially from the Centre. Since the TDP is the largest partner (after BJP) in the ruling NDA with 16 Lok Sabha seats, the Centre was liberal in extending financial assistance to the state – not only for Amaravati capital city and Polavaram, but also to national highways, ring roads, metro rail etc,' political analyst Ramakrishna Sangem said. Naidu kickstarted the constructions in Amaravati and got the works relaunched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2 this year, following the approval of ₹15,000-crore loan from World Bank and ADB, besides securing another ₹11,000 crore loan from HUDCO and other financial institutions. He also got the works on Polavaram project expedited and hopes to complete the project by December 2027. 'The financial package of over ₹11,000 crore for Vizag Steel Plant, approval for the establishment of BPCL refinery project and industrial corridors at Orvakal etc are some of the major achievements of Naidu, thanks to his lobbying power with the Centre,' Sangem added. Yet, Naidu continues to struggle with the financial crisis. According to the CAG report, the TDP-led government had resorted to budgetary and off-budget borrowings to the extent of ₹1,37,546 crore in the last one year. Hitting at the Naidu government, former CM Reddy in a post on X said: 'The fiscal deficit went up from 4.08% of the GSDP to 5.12% in a span of one year and the revenue deficit jumped from 2.65% to 3.61%.' Revenge politics Naidu's one-year rule so far also exhibited his revenge politics, a full brunt of which has been faced by the YSRCP. State's CID, the special investigation team (SIT) and the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACP) of the state police have been targeting the YSRCP leaders by digging out one scam after another. Some of the cases under investigation include alleged forcible acquisition of shares in Kakinada SeaPorts Ltd and Kakinada Special Economic Zone by YSRCP leaders like YV Subba Reddy and V Vijay Sai Reddy; land encroachments and illegal mining in several parts of the state allegedly by former ministers Kakani Goverdhan Reddy and Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy; and illegal liquor scam worth ₹3,200 crore allegedly involving Peddireddy Mithun Reddy, Jagan's secretary K Dhanujay Reddy, OSD P Krishnamohan Reddy and former IT advisor Raj Kesireddy. The government also cracked down on some key YSRCP leaders like former Macherla MLA Pinnelli Ramakrishna Reddy, former Bapatla MP Nandigam Suresh, former minister Jogi Ramesh and former MLA Vallabhaneni Vamsi, all of whom have been arrested in various criminal cases. He also launched a massive crackdown on social media activists affiliated with the YSRCP, for allegedly posting derogatory content against the ruling coalition on social media. Naidu also made every attempt to malign the image of former CM Reddy by highlighting the issues like alleged adulteration of cow ghee used for making Tirumala laddu during the YSRCP regime, an accusation that created massive uproar. The government did not spare even IAS and IPS officers who had targeted Naidu during the YSRCP regime. Several officers were shifted from their posts and were kept in waiting without any further postings for a long time. Three of them — IPS officers PSR Anjaneyulu, Kranti Rana Tata, and Vishal Gunni — were suspended in September for their alleged involvement in the improper arrest and alleged harassment of Mumbai-based actress Kadambari Jethwani. Shrewd politicking On the political front, CM Naidu has been able to manage the alliance partners well, by offering key portfolios to allies JanaSena Party and the BJP. Besides appointing Pawan Kalyan as deputy chief minister and BJP leader Satya Kumar as health minister, he allotted a large chunk of nominated posts to the alliance partners. So far, the three parties have been able to work in tandem. At the same time, Naidu also appears to be grooming his son Nara Lokesh as his heir apparent. At the recent Mahanadu, TDP leaders raised the pitch for making Lokesh the working president of the party. Pawan Kalyan, who is presently considered No 2 in the state cabinet, is lying low. Though his Jana Sena Party had 100% strike rate in the last elections by winning 21 out of 21 assembly seats and both the Lok Sabha seats it contested, the actor-turned-politician is not asserting himself. 'Pawan Kalyan knows his limitations, but at the same time, he is able to get the things done for his party by bringing pressure on Naidu,' political analyst Sangem added. Bumpy road for Jagan After facing humiliating defeat in the assembly elections, several key leaders of the YSRCP resigned, including Jagan's once trusted lieutenant Vijay Sai Reddy. Four Rajya Sabha members and six MLCs also resigned from their posts. The road ahead for Jagan Mohan Reddy is bumpy and challenging. And yet, his fighting spirit remains intact. At a recent party meeting, Reddy asserted: 'When in opposition, challenges are inevitable. But we must remain steadfast in our values. Hardships don't last forever. I assure you — our party will return to power and rule the state for the next 30 years.'
The Hindu
3 days ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Chintalapudi project will be completed within the next five years, says the Minister for Housing, Information and Public Relations
Minister for Housing, Information and Public Relations Kolusu Parthasarathy stated that the coalition government is working with the sole objective of public welfare. On Saturday, during his visit to Agiripalli, the Minister met several families and enquired about problems being faced by them. He directed the officials concerned over the phone to resolve several problems that were brought to his attention during the visit. The Minister emphasised that right from the Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu down to grassroots leaders, everyone is working earnestly to solve the problems of the poor. The pension distribution programme is also being carried out alongside, reflecting the government's commitment in staying connected with the people and understanding their difficulties. The Annadata Sukhibhava and Talliki Vandanam welfare schemes would be launched soon. Despite financial constraints, the government is moving forward with both welfare and development programmes, he said. Alleging that the previous government slowed down the State's progress across various sectors, he said that Mr. Naidu is making determined efforts to stabilise the State's economy while simultaneously attracting large-scale industrial investments. Measures are also being taken to provide employment opportunities to the youth. The people have given the coalition government a historic victory, and they will work tirelessly to meet the people's expectations with a strong sense of responsibility, he said. Mr. Parthasarathy assured that the Chintalapudi project would be completed within the next five years, addressing drinking and irrigation water needs of the constituency. Furthermore, he declared that every poor person without a home will be provided a permanent house within the next five years by the coalition government. The Minister made it clear that any poor individual with a problem can approach him directly and get their issue resolved and there is no place for brokers or middlemen. A special review meeting in coordination with the Sub-Collector would be convened to address land issues in the mandal, noting that many people have been filing complaints regarding land matters. A dedicated platform involving the Joint Collector and Sub-Collector will be set up to resolve these issues. Drainage and road problems in Agiripalli mandal would be resolved soon, he added.
Hans India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Hans India
Pension fest celebrated a day early in State: Savita
Roddham: Minister Savita stated that the 'Pension Festival' began a day early in the State. She participated in a programme at Naranagepalli village of Roddham Mandal, where pensions were distributed along with free LPG cylinders under the Deepam 2 scheme. The Minister personally visited beneficiaries' homes, handed over the pensions, and enquired about their well-being. She highlighted that, in line with the promises made during the elections, the government has decided to issue pensions in full rather than in phases. The pension amounts have been increased to ₹4,000 for the elderly, widows, and single women, and to ₹6,000 for differently-abled persons. She Savita criticized the previous administration, noting that while former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy had promised to increase pensions to ₹3,000 in 2019, he implemented the hike in phases, adding only ₹250 increments each year. She credited NT Rama Rao for initiating the social pension scheme and said Chandrababu Naidu is continuing his legacy. Now, pensions of ₹4,000 per month are being issued, she added. Savita further mentioned that Anna Canteens have been reopened to provide affordable meals for the poor, and three free LPG cylinders are being provided annually to women under welfare schemes. Since Chandrababu Naidu assumed office, the State has been witnessing rapid development, she said, noting that the past five years were marked by a development vacuum. Highlighting recent development initiatives in Roddham mandal, she revealed that CC roads, drainage systems, and bridges worth ₹11 crore have been initiated. Additionally, ₹17.5 crore has been sanctioned for the construction of an MJP school. A new building has also been inaugurated at the government hospital with an investment of ₹50 lakh. To support farmers with power infrastructure, a 33/11 kV substation is being constructed at Dodagattu at a cost of ₹3.5 crore, and Bhoomi Puja for another substation at Gourajupalli will be conducted soon. Minister Savita also announced the completion of 44 Gokulam (cattle) sheds across the mandal. She emphasized the implementation of a free sand distribution policy and reiterated that Anna Canteens are now feeding the underprivileged. Once schools reopen, the 'Talli Ki Vandanam' scheme will provide ₹15,000 per child to eligible families. The 'Annadata Sukhibhava' scheme for farmers is set to be implemented soon, and from August 15, free bus travel for women will also be introduced. The program saw the participation of government officials, NDA alliance leaders, party workers, and a large number of local residents.
Hans India
3 days ago
- Business
- Hans India
Govt sets record with large-scale pension distribution at the doorstep
Gotkuru (Anantapur district): Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav participated in the pension distribution drive under the NTR Bharosa Scheme in Gotkuru village, Kuderu Mandal, on Saturday. The Minister accompanied by district Collector Dr Vinod Kumar V visited the homes of beneficiaries and personally handed over pensions. Speaking on the occasion, Keshav highlighted that the State government is distributing pensions on the 1st of every month, or a day earlier if it falls on a Sunday, ensuring timely support to the needy. The distribution is conducted at beneficiaries' doorsteps, with participation from top-level leaders including Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu down to village-level functionaries. He emphasised that Andhra Pradesh is the only State in India implementing pension distribution on such a massive scale, covering nearly 60 lakh beneficiaries with monthly pensions ranging from Rs 4,000 to Rs 15,000. Despite severe financial burdens and outstanding dues exceeding Rs 10 lakh crore, the government remains committed to fulfilling its promises. Minister Keshav assured that schemes like Annadata Sukhibhava (for farmers) and Thalliki Vandanam (educational support for children) will be implemented soon. He criticized the previous government for pushing the State into financial distress and hailed Chief Minister Naidu's leadership for steering Andhra Pradesh back on track through welfare and economic reforms. District Collector Dr Vinod Kumar stated that Rs 124 crore is being distributed to 2,77,834 pensioners across the district. Since June 1st falls on a Sunday, the distribution was conducted a day earlier, ensuring smooth and timely delivery. Other officials present included RDO Keshava Naidu, DRDA PD Shailaja, Tahsildar Mahboob Basha, and MPDO Kullayi Swamy.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Andhra Pradesh government mulls introducing direct benefit transfer for public distribution system beneficiaries
Vijayawada: Taking a serious view of the misuse of the public distribution system (PDS) rice, chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday said that the state govt is considering implementing direct benefit transfer (DBT) instead of providing rice through the public distribution system (PDS). Naidu stated that the 'ration mafia' has deeply infiltrated the system and is attempting to influence him, warning that strong action will be taken against them. Under the proposed DBT system, money will be directly deposited into the accounts of beneficiaries, allowing them to purchase essentials at their convenience. The chief minister also outlined plans for doorstep delivery of rations for people above 65 years and differently-abled individuals, while others can collect their rations from nearby shops with the flexibility to choose their preferred outlet. Naidu expressed concerns over the increasing incidence of diabetes in the Konaseema region, attributing it to high rice consumption. During a monthly pension program at Cheyyeru village in Dr B R Ambedkar Konaseema district, Naidu interacted with women NREGS workers and extended financial assistance to two families who lost earning members due to diabetes-related complications. He also promised to provide employment to their daughters. The chief minister highlighted the govt's focus on creating 20 lakh job opportunities for youth and noted that the state is on track to achieve this goal, with ₹8.5 lakh crore investments already secured in the first year. Naidu also outlined various welfare schemes launched by the NDA government, including pension enhancements, free gas cylinders, financial assistance to fishermen, and power subsidies in the first year and assured to implement poll promises like Thalliki Vandanam, Annadata Sukhibhava and free bus for women by August 15. Naidu expressed concerns over the declining population and urged people to have at least two children. He said that despite having financial troubles, AP is ahead of all states in giving the highest pension to the poor. The previous govt destroyed every system, and AP was blacklisted by the Union govt. However, we restored 94 centrally sponsored schemes and cleared more than Rs 7,500 crore pending PF arrears to employees. Referring to the controversy over Pastor Praveen Pagadala's death, Naidu said that propaganda machines are trying hard to defame the govt. Similar attempts were made in TTD as if something happened. Naidu warned of stringent action against those making false allegations.
