Double-engine govt boosts Andhra Pradesh growth: Union minister

Visakhapatnam: Union minister Pemmasani Chandrasekhar said that the government is a true "double-engine government", committed to fully utilising central funds and opportunities to make Andhra Pradesh a developed state. Spekaing to the media on the recent Union Budget in Visakhapatnam on Sunday, the minister said the budget focused on economic growth, infrastructure, welfare, and technological advancement. He said tax relief, GST simplification, and reforms are boosting business and public welfare, while unemployment and poverty have significantly declined."For Andhra Pradesh specifically, significant funds have been allocated: Rs 1,400 crore for Amaravati development, Rs 10,000 crore for railway projects, Rs 3,300 crore for Polavaram, and incentives for municipal bonds to raise state revenue. The Budget strongly supports economic growth, infrastructure development, social welfare, and overall prosperity in the state. "Under the leadership of prime minister Narendra Modi, the country has progressed steadily over the past 12 years, with significant reforms benefiting both businesses and ordinary citizens. The defence Budget was increased by 21%, with 75% of funds directed toward domestic manufacturing, boosting employment and innovation, and that defense exports have risen from Rs 600 crore to Rs 25,000 crore. On infrastructure, the highways and railways Budgets have been raised by 10%, with seven high-speed rail corridors under construction, including one benefiting Andhra Pradesh," said Chandrasekhar. "In rural development, the VB-G Ram G scheme has replaced the earlier MNREGA programme, with funds increased to Rs 95,000 crore. Health and education Budgets have risen by 10%, while allocations for state capital investments under SASCI increased by 23%, reaching Rs 1.85 lakh crore. Poverty has fallen from 29% to 11%, and around 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty. About 4 crore houses have been built, mostly benefiting women and marginalised communities. Special attention is also on rare earth minerals and textile industry revival. Initiatives like She Marts empower women entrepreneurs, while Khelo India receives higher funding for sports," added the minister.