Support Andhra Pradesh’s development: Minister Payyavula Keshav

Andhra Pradesh Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav urged the Central Government to give a major push to the development of Andhra Pradesh in the upcoming 2026-27 Union Budget. He emphasized the need for comprehensive support to help the state overcome post-bifurcation challenges .

Minister Keshav participated in the pre-Budget meeting of State Finance Ministers held in Delhi on Monday, chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman . During the meeting, he presented a detailed memorandum outlining the financial status of Andhra Pradesh and key projects essential for the state’s reconstruction.

Highlighting the importance of Amaravati as the state’s permanent capital , he requested that the second tranche of grants be allocated in addition to the earlier approved ₹15,000 crore . He stressed that significant central funding is necessary to accelerate the development of basic infrastructure in the capital city .

He also requested special financial assistance for key irrigation projects in the state, similar to the substantial funds provided by the Centre for river interlinking in northern states. These funds, he explained, would address drinking water and irrigation challenges and significantly boost agricultural growth .

Focusing on the development of the Rayalaseema region , Minister Keshav requested a special package of ₹41,000 crore over three years under the State Reorganisation Act . This funding aims to transform Rayalaseema into a global horticulture hub and increase farmers’ incomes .

For the development of the Visakhapatnam economic region , he proposed an allocation of ₹5,000 crore , with a goal to increase Visakhapatnam’s GDP from the current $52 billion to $125 billion by 2032 .

With the 16th Finance Commission recommendations coming into effect , he also requested an increase in the share of states in central taxes and additional funds under the special assistance scheme for capital investments . He suggested that the ‘Purvodaya’ scheme be made more flexible to accommodate the needs of states like Andhra Pradesh .

Minister Keshav expressed optimism that the Centre would take positive decisions in favour of Andhra Pradesh’s development .