Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has made a strong appeal to the Union government for support to the Polavaram–Banakacherla interlinking project, calling it essential for addressing the chronic water scarcity in Rayalaseema.

During his two-day visit to New Delhi, Mr. Naidu met several key leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, to push for funding and policy approvals for this ambitious water transfer initiative.

Why the Project Matters

The Polavaram–Banakacherla interlinking project is designed to divert around 200 tmc ft of surplus floodwaters from the Polavaram reservoir on the Godavari river to the Banakacherla regulator in Kurnool district.

Mr. Naidu explained that this diversion will:

• Provide long-term irrigation facilities to drought-prone Rayalaseema, a region that suffers from severe water stress almost every year.

• Ensure drinking water security for millions in the southern districts of Andhra Pradesh.

• Utilise surplus floodwaters available for about 90 to 120 days annually, which otherwise drain into the sea unused.

He emphasised Andhra Pradesh’s rights as the tail-end State of the Godavari river system and said the State must fully harness its share of water under existing allocations and surplus conditions.

The Urgent Need for Water in Rayalaseema

Rayalaseema is one of India’s most drought-prone regions. Despite repeated promises and partial irrigation projects, the region continues to battle:

• Erratic rainfall leading to crop failures.

• Groundwater depletion as farmers overdraw borewells.

• Migration of labourers in search of work.

• Water shortages for both drinking and industry.

Mr. Naidu stressed that the Polavaram–Banakacherla project offers a sustainable, long-term solution that can transform the region’s economy by ensuring reliable irrigation for farmers.

Meeting with Union Home Minister

During his meeting with Amit Shah, Mr. Naidu laid out the technical and economic case for the project.

He urged the Centre to classify it as a national priority and provide financial support for its execution.

Key arguments presented included:

• Surplus Godavari water often wasted in floods can be redirected to water-deficit regions.

• The inter-basin transfer will reduce inter-state water disputes by optimally using allocated water.

• Boost in agricultural production in Rayalaseema will improve food security and reduce rural poverty.

Mr. Naidu also highlighted Andhra Pradesh’s proactive efforts in planning the project and conducting preliminary feasibility studies.

Acknowledging Centre’s Support

In his meetings, Mr. Naidu also expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union government for their continued support.

He specifically thanked them for:

• Appointing senior TDP leader Ashok Gajapathi Raju as the Governor of Andhra Pradesh—a move seen as politically significant for the party.

• Providing financial support during the State’s periods of fiscal stress.

Mr. Naidu used the occasion to renew his appeal for additional financial aid to compensate for losses Andhra Pradesh has suffered since the bifurcation in 2014.

He explained that the State continues to struggle with revenue deficits and needs special financial packages to bridge the gap, support welfare programmes, and invest in infrastructure.

Representation to the 16th Finance Commission

As part of this trip, the Andhra Pradesh delegation submitted a detailed representation to the 16th Finance Commission, highlighting the State’s unique challenges:

• Revenue loss due to bifurcation without sufficient compensation.

• Infrastructure gaps compared to other southern States.

• Commitments made in the AP Reorganisation Act that remain unfulfilled.

• The need for special category status or at least a special financial package to support development.

Mr. Naidu argued that such support is essential to achieve balanced regional development and prevent backwardness in parts of Andhra Pradesh.

Discussion with NITI Aayog

Earlier in the day, Mr. Naidu met NITI Aayog member V.K. Saraswat to discuss industrial development in Rayalaseema.

He presented plans to develop aerospace and defence industries in the region, which he argued will:

• Create high-quality jobs.

• Improve incomes in an otherwise agriculture-dependent region.

• Reduce regional inequalities within Andhra Pradesh.

The CM sought NITI Aayog’s guidance and support to:

• Identify suitable sites.

• Help attract private sector investments.

• Facilitate technology transfers and skill development programmes.

Delhi Metro Collaboration

Mr. Naidu also met Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) Managing Director Vikas Kumar to discuss urban transport solutions in Andhra Pradesh.

Key topics included:

• Possible DMRC collaboration for new metro projects in Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada.

• Sharing of technical expertise to ensure efficient and cost-effective metro systems.

• Options for financing and public-private partnerships.

Naidu argued that improved urban transport is essential for smart city development, reducing traffic congestion, and supporting economic growth in Andhra Pradesh’s growing urban centres.

Broader Political Context

Naidu’s visit also has clear political undertones:

• It demonstrates renewed cooperation between the Andhra Pradesh government and the BJP-led Centre.

• It strengthens ties that may be crucial for securing central funds and approvals for big projects.

• It sends a message of collaborative federalism where States and the Centre work together on development.

The Significance of Ashok Gajapathi Raju’s Appointment

Naidu warmly welcomed the appointment of Ashok Gajapathi Raju as Andhra Pradesh’s new Governor.

Ashok Gajapathi Raju, a senior TDP leader and former Union Minister, is known for his administrative experience and political stature.

This appointment is seen as:

• A political win for the Telugu Desam Party (TDP).

• A sign of Centre-State goodwill under the new arrangement.

• A move that will likely smoothen Centre-State coordination on various issues.

Long-Term Vision for Andhra Pradesh

During these meetings, Naidu repeatedly underlined his vision for Andhra Pradesh as:

• A water-secure State through smart management and interlinking of rivers.

• An industrial hub with sectors like aerospace, defence, IT, and agro-processing.

• A leader in urban development, with world-class metro transport systems.

• A State that balances rural development with urban growth.

He argued that projects like Polavaram–Banakacherla are not just about water but about transforming lives, boosting the economy, and building a prosperous Andhra Pradesh for all.

Conclusion

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s visit to Delhi reflects a strategic push for funding and clearances for key projects that can reshape Andhra Pradesh’s future.

By prioritising water security for Rayalaseema, investing in industries, and planning for urban transport, he hopes to deliver on his promise of rapid development and inclusive growth.

His meetings with Union Ministers, NITI Aayog, and Delhi Metro signal a collaborative approach that may prove vital for turning these ambitious plans into reality.

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