CM Seeks Central Support For Purvodaya

These included the Purvodaya programme, SASCI scheme studies, the transformative ₹ 41,000 crore horticulture development package for Rayalaseema and financing of the Polavaram-Nallamala Sagar link project for large drought-resistant parts of Andhra Pradesh.

During the meeting, Naidu emphasized that the Purvodaya initiative is vital to realize the Viksit Bharat vision. He said he focuses on the holistic development of the eastern and coastal states while supporting the country’s overall economic growth.

He explained that Purvodaya funds are vital for improving rural connectivity, modernization of irrigation systems, development of infrastructure, expansion of industrial corridors, establishment of food processing clusters and strengthening of health and education facilities in Andhra Pradesh.

Emphasizing that these interventions will significantly enhance livelihood opportunities in rural areas, the chief minister urged the Center to prioritize state-specific requirements and simplify administrative norms to ensure timely and effective implementation of Purvodaya projects.

Raising the issue of financial stress faced by the state, Naidu sought speedy release of funds under the SASCI scheme for many major projects. These include construction of Unity Mall in Visakhapatnam, reconstruction of the historic Havelock Bridge under Akhanda Godavari initiative, development of Gandikota tourism project and completion of three working women hostels in different areas.

Demanding allocation of ₹ 10,054 crore under SASCI for the financial year 2025-26, he said central support is critical for roads, MSME parks, irrigation works, housing and healthcare infrastructure.

The Prime Minister also submitted a memorandum demanding a special horticulture development package for Rayalaseema. Nirmala informed Sitharaman that Rayalaseema and Prakasam regions together grow 18 globally demanded horticultural crops. He said around 93 horticulture clusters in eight districts directly and indirectly support around 33.7 lakh farmers.

The state plans to increase the horticulture area from 8.48 lakh hectares to 12.28 lakh hectares by 2029, he said.

Naidu underlined the need to strengthen water resources and create world-class logistics infrastructure, including roads, rail connectivity, ports and air cargo facilities, to boost exports.

He said the proposed Rayalaseema horticulture hub would require an investment of ₹ 41,000 crore over the next three years and could increase farmers’ annual income from ₹ 2 lakh to ₹ 3.5 lakh.

Naidu urged the Center to announce the package in the Union Budget 2026-27.

Seeking central support for the Polavaram-Nallamala Sagar link project, the CM said 200 million cubic meters of Godavari flood waters will be diverted to drought-prone areas and irrigation and drinking water will be provided for Prakasam, Rayalaseema and Nellore districts.

Naidu noted that a preliminary project report has been submitted to the Jal Shakti ministry and urged Sitharam to provide him with budget support in 2026-27, similar to the assistance given to AP earlier for Amaravati capital works.