The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has outlined three key demands for Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman ahead of the Union Budget 2024. The budget session is scheduled to be presented on July 23. According to a credible source, these demands would be pertaining to the allocation of budgetary grants for backward districts, the prompt release of funds for the Polavaram irrigation project, and financial assistance for the development of Amaravati as the capital city.

Nara Lokesh, TDP General Secretary and Andhra Pradesh Minister for Human Resources Development stated that these demands were not ‘anything out of turn’ but instead the fulfillment of ‘promises’ made. They further said that these demands are crucial for the state’s accelerated development.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has also held a meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday. This was his second trip to Delhi within ten days. This visit was reportedly aimed at ensuring a significant budget allocation for the state. As per the report, Naidu is determined to secure these essential funds, as it has been promised under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act - 2014.

Furthermore, as the report showcased, Nara Lokesh also highlighted, “In the past, there were certain promises that were part of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act. A major promise was budgetary grants per year for the backward districts. Also, there are national projects like the Polavaram project that need to be supported.”

Securing Rights for Underpinned Districts

The Andhra Pradesh government is focusing the budget to be allocated across underdeveloped districts which include Anantapur, Chittoor, Kurnool, Cuddapah, Srikakulam, Visakhapatnam, and Vizianagaram.

Furthermore, Lokesh has emphasized the necessity of the Center’s support, especially with respect to the difficulties following the 2014 bifurcation that established Telangana; leaving Andhra Pradesh without Hyderabad, which was its economic hub. Also, the TDP has reportedly chosen not to pursue special status for Andhra Pradesh while seeking various funds and projects. This marks a notable change from their previous position. And speaking of the upcoming budget, the TDP is optimistic about the announcement of a petrochemical hub and an oil refinery in the state. Lokesh has reiterated the party’s unwavering support for the BJP-led coalition in advocating for these demands.