Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the allocation of Rs 15,000 crore for the development of Amaravati, the new capital city of Andhra Pradesh, during the presentation of the Union Budget 2024-25 in Parliament on Tuesday.
Boosting Andhra Pradesh’s Development
The Central government is providing a significant boost to Andhra Pradesh’s growth and development by allocating Rs 15,000 crore for Amaravati’s development. This move is expected to have a multiplier effect on the state’s economy, creating new opportunities for employment, infrastructure development, and industrial growth.
Developing Infrastructure
The Central government will utilize the allocated funds to create world-class infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings, in Amaravati. This will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the city but also provide a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
Promoting Industrial Growth
The Central government expects the development of Amaravati to attract significant investments from industries, including IT, pharma, and manufacturing. The state government has already identified several industrial nodes, including Kopparthy on the Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor and Orvakal on the Hyderabad-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor, which will be developed to promote industrial growth.
Creating Jobs
The development of Amaravati will create thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly, as the Central government and state government work together to construct infrastructure, develop industries, and grow the service sector.
Improving Social Conditions
The Central government and state government are working together to develop several social infrastructure projects, including schools, hospitals, and community centers, to provide better living conditions, education, and healthcare facilities to the people of Andhra Pradesh.
A New Era for Andhra Pradesh
The allocation of Rs 15,000 crore for Amaravati’s development marks a new era for Andhra Pradesh, as the state is poised to become a hub for economic growth, industrial development, and social progress.
Fostering Competitive Federalism
The Central government is emphasizing the need for competitive federalism, working with states as partners rather than opponents. Finance Minister Sitharaman is proposing to earmark a significant part of the 50-year interest-free loan for promoting competitive federalism.
Key Highlights of the Budget
- The Central government allocates Rs 15,000 crore for the development of Amaravati, the new capital city of Andhra Pradesh.
- The government emphasizes competitive federalism, working with states as partners.
- The budget focuses on agriculture, jobs, and skilling, as well as measures to alleviate stress on Medium Small and Micro Enterprises (MSMEs).
- The government provides a special package for Andhra Pradesh, covering industrial growth, infrastructure, irrigation, and human resource development.
Reactions from Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh expresses his gratitude to the Central government for the allocation, stating that it will go a long way in helping the state achieve its development and social objectives. Lokesh welcomes the special package provided to the state, covering all important areas such as industrial growth, infrastructure, irrigation, and human resource development.
A Red Letter Day for Andhra Pradesh
Lokesh hails the allocation as a “red letter day” in the state’s history, marking the beginning of a new era of development and growth. The Minister commits to working with the Central government to build a state of their dreams.
Conclusion
The Central government’s allocation of Rs 15,000 crore for Amaravati’s development is a significant move, recognizing the state’s needs and emphasizing the importance of competitive federalism. With a focus on agriculture, jobs, and skilling, as well as measures to alleviate stress on MSMEs, the Budget 2024-25 is expected to have a positive impact on Andhra Pradesh’s growth and development.
FAQ’s
- Q: What is the purpose of this allocation?A: To enhance and revitalize the Amaravati city project
- Q: Who had sought this allocation from the Centre? A: N Chandrababu Naidu, the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh
- Q: What is the expected total cost of the Amaravati city project? A: Rs 40,000 crore, twice the initial projection
- Q: What kind of infrastructure development is expected in Amaravati? A: Broadened roadways, overpasses, an international airport, and a metro system
- Q: Why was Amaravati chosen as the capital of Andhra Pradesh? A: After the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in 2014, Amaravati was chosen as the new capital of Andhra Pradesh.
- Q: What is the significance of this allocation for Andhra Pradesh? A: This allocation is expected to give a boost to the development of Andhra Pradesh and its capital city, Amaravati.