Palle Panduga 2.0 launched with ₹6,787 cr investment for rural development

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan inaugurated the “Palle Panduga 2.0” program in Shivakodu village of Rajolu constituency, Konaseema district, marking a significant step toward comprehensive rural development. A photo exhibition showcased the achievements of the first phase of the initiative, highlighting the government’s efforts in improving village infrastructure and livelihoods.

Speaking at a public gathering, Pawan Kalyan said that after assuming responsibility for the Panchayati Raj and Rural Development departments, the government designed the Palle Panduga program with the aim of holistic development in villages. He emphasized that the program intends to transform the face of rural Andhra Pradesh, with the guiding principle: “Facilities for every village, prosperity for every family.”

He recalled the successes of Palle Panduga 1.0, which completed projects worth ₹2,525 crore, including thousands of kilometers of cement roads, tens of thousands of mini tanks for farmers, water troughs for livestock, and over a lakh of water wells. Building on this foundation, Palle Panduga 2.0 will create 8,571 kilometers of new roads, reconstruct old roads, set up 25,000 mini tanks and 157 community tanks, and construct 58 kilometers of advanced drainage systems. In addition, new development projects and panchayat buildings are planned, with additional funds allocated specifically for Konaseema. Funding will come from National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), the Asian Infrastructure Development Bank, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, the 15th Finance Commission, Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), and other welfare programs.

Pawan Kalyan criticized the previous five-year YSRCP administration, pointing out neglected roads, incomplete repairs, and misuse of authority. “What we inherited from the past government were debts and problems,” he said, stressing that the current government is focused on transparent governance, timely salaries, and large-scale development without corruption. Addressing rumors and opposition claims, he said that the youth have exercised their democratic power wisely and that development and employment must go hand in hand. He emphasized that true progress happens when citizens are self-reliant and capable of creating their own opportunities.

Highlighting Konaseema’s potential, he said the region could become a tourist hub comparable to Kerala, generating employment for thousands of young people. He criticized past false promises of mass employment and reiterated that the government takes responsibility for its actions, while also ensuring that leaders are held accountable when they fail the public. Concluding his address, he stated, “Rights come with responsibility. Only a responsible youth can hold leaders accountable and help build a new India. With Palle Panduga 2.0, we aim to fully transform our villages, making them self-sufficient and prosperous.”

Several government officials and party activists attended the event, witnessing the launch of this ambitious program aimed at reshaping rural Andhra Pradesh.