Welfare Schemes a Priority Despite Financial Challenges: Chandrababu
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu made critical remarks about the state's financial situation, emphasizing the severe challenges inherited from the previous administration. Speaking candidly, he claimed that during the YSR Congress Party's tenure, Andhra Pradesh's economic condition had deteriorated to a level worse than Bihar's.
Addressing the state’s development projects, Chandrababu noted that funds had been allocated by the central government for initiatives such as the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, the Amaravati capital project, and the Polavaram irrigation project. He stressed his commitment to implementing welfare schemes without delay, provided sufficient financial resources were available. However, he clarified that reallocating funds meant for specific central government projects was not an option.
“I don’t like breaking promises. That is why I am sharing the truth with the people. The financial situation is not favorable right now. However, as soon as the economy recovers, we will implement our welfare schemes,” Chandrababu stated. He reiterated his dedication to fulfilling commitments such as the “Mother’s Blessings” and “Annadata Sukhibhava” schemes, even if loans need to be secured to meet these promises.
Chandrababu also highlighted the missed opportunities over the past five years, stating that Andhra Pradesh had lost significant development momentum during this period. According to him, if the growth rate from 2019 had been maintained, the state's wealth would have increased substantially. Instead, the state is now burdened with debts of ₹9.5 lakh crore, along with the responsibility of paying interest on those loans, he explained.
The Chief Minister emphasized that his government is working to restore systems and bring stability to all sectors. He assured citizens that welfare programs would not be compromised under any circumstances. “We will never take a step back when it comes to implementing welfare schemes,” Chandrababu asserted.