Chandrababu Naidu Celebrates 30 Years in Politics, Eyes Future

This Monday, Andhra Pradesh’s Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu marked a significant milestone, celebrating 30 years in politics. Naidu, who first assumed office as the youngest chief minister of united Andhra Pradesh on September 1, 1995, has navigated a complex political landscape, serving four terms in total. His latest term began in mid-2024 and is slated to continue until 2029.

At 75 years old, Naidu, leader of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), is recognized for his administrative acumen and visionary strategies. His tenure has been notably defined by substantial advancements in the information technology sector in Hyderabad, which transformed the city into a major economic hub and generated significant employment opportunities.

Innovative Infrastructure and Development Plans

Naidu’s ambition extends beyond urban success; he has long advocated for the interlinking of rivers, which he believes will foster equitable prosperity across the nation. His focus on developing Amaravati, the new capital of Andhra Pradesh, has been a key priority, aiming to transform the area from marshland into a world-class urban center. He is also committed to completing the Polavaram Project, essential for the state’s irrigation and water management, by the end of 2027.

In January 2018, Naidu inaugurated the Pattiseema lift irrigation scheme, linking the Godavari and Krishna rivers through the Polavaram canal, showcasing his dedication to comprehensive water resource management.

Despite facing significant challenges, including defeats in the 2004 and 2009 assembly elections, Naidu made a notable comeback after the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. He was elected as the first chief minister of the residual state in 2014. However, he lost power in 2019 to the YSR Congress Party (YSRC) led by YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. In a surprising turn of events, Naidu returned to power in the 2024 assembly polls with support from the Jana Sena party, led by actor Pawan Kalyan.

Focus on Agriculture and Technology

Now back in office, Naidu emphasizes the protection of farmers’ interests. He promotes natural farming practices to enhance food quality and meet international standards. His administration claims to have attracted investments worth Rs 9,000 crore in the food processing sector alone last year, reflecting his focus on agricultural innovation.

Additionally, Naidu has secured investment commitments totaling approximately Rs 9 lakh crore for the state over the past year. His forward-thinking initiatives include the development of Amaravati as a Quantum Computing Valley and the introduction of the Mana Mitra WhatsApp governance platform, which simplifies access to public services via mobile devices, potentially reducing corruption.

During his current term, Naidu has also launched self-help groups for women, known as Dwcra groups, which have inspired similar initiatives in other states. His P-4 programme aims to uplift the poor by leveraging support from wealthier segments of society.

Naidu has worked to bring governance closer to the populace through initiatives like Prajala Vaddaku Palana and the Janmabhoomi programme, encouraging community involvement in local development. His Vision-2020 policy laid the groundwork for his current vision called Swarnandhra 2047, which aims to transform Andhra Pradesh into a $2.4 trillion economy.

With a focus on inclusivity, Naidu prioritizes the welfare of backward classes, scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and minorities, launching various educational and empowerment schemes. His administration also seeks to enhance women’s representation in grassroots governance.

In the energy sector, Naidu has implemented reforms that have stabilized both generation and supply, with a renewed emphasis on green energy solutions, including solar and wind energy projects. His approach aims to position Andhra Pradesh as a leader in sustainable energy development.

In conclusion, as Chandrababu Naidu enters his 30th year in politics, his vision for a prosperous and technologically advanced Andhra Pradesh remains unwavering. With ambitious projects and a commitment to inclusivity, he continues to shape the future of the state amidst a dynamic political landscape.