Amaravati is Andhra's sole capital, ending farmer panic: Nara Lokesh

Minister Nara Lokesh hailed the passage of the AP Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, declaring Amaravati the sole capital. He said this ends farmer panic and thanked PM Modi and Amit Shah for their support in passing the resolution in Parliament.

Following the historic passage of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, in Parliament on Thursday, Minister Nara Lokesh addressed a press conference in Delhi, stating that "in the last 20 months, a lot of confusion and panic was created among farmers, making them feel they would have to struggle again. This was not right."

Government's Resolve on Amaravati

Underscoring the government's resolve, he noted that "under the leadership of our Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, we took it upon ourselves to pass a resolution declaring Amaravati as the sole and permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh."

Centre's Role and Political Support

Highlighting the Centre's role in the process, Nara Lokesh said, "Thanks to the Honourable Home Minister Amit Shah ji, we were able to bring the bill to Delhi, complete the vetting process, and secure its passage in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha." He also expressed gratitude on behalf of the state, adding, "I thank the citizens of India and all political parties - except one, for standing with us. This support gives us strength and marks a true homecoming for Andhra."

Opposition Slammed for Walkout

Slamming the opposition, Nara Lokesh remarked, "It is unfortunate that despite a clear mandate from the people of Andhra Pradesh, the party that secured just 6% of the seats chose to walk out of both Houses."

Amaravati's Development Fast-Tracked

He further stressed that the development would "bring a sense of security and fast-track Amaravati's growth," pointing to ongoing infrastructure momentum: "All key projects - roads, Secretariat, Assembly, and High Court - have been restarted, and we are committed to completing them within the promised timeline." He also emphasized the expected boost in private investment and job creation.

Tribute to Amaravati Farmers

Paying tribute to the farmers of Amaravati, Lokesh described the moment as "a victory especially for those who sacrificed their land, endured hardships, and fought tirelessly to retain it as the sole capital."

Confidence in Andhra Pradesh's Future

Expressing confidence in Andhra Pradesh's future trajectory, he concluded, "While we began as a newly bifurcated state with a Rs 16,000 crore deficit and do require hand-holding, now we are confident that within one term, we will emerge stronger and contribute back to the nation."

TDP MPs Meet Lok Sabha Speaker

Earlier in the day, Lokesh led TDP MPs met with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at Parliament House. He expressed gratitude for the passage of the Bill, describing it as a milestone for the state's development. (ANI)

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