Naidu Tells MPs to Get More Central Funds for AP’s Development

The chief minister was speaking at the Telugu Desam parliamentary party meeting here on Friday, in the run-up to the Monsoon Session of parliament.

The meeting was also attended by minister Nara Lokesh. Naidu emphasized the importance of utilizing parliamentary sessions efficiently.

He said MPs must intensify their efforts to secure the necessary central funds and advance key developmental projects for the state.

He also urged the MPs to raise issues such as the Minimum Support Price for farmers, river water disputes and industrial development. They must present the state government’s initiatives on these to the Centre's attention through Parliament.

The chief minister praised TD MPs for their consistent attendance and active engagement in parliamentary debates. “Our MPs are performing well. While the national average attendance among MPs stands at 85 per cent, TD members have surpassed it with 86.2 per cent, placing them at the top nationally,” he said.

Naidu noted that TD MPs led others in both participation in debates and the number of questions raised. He encouraged them to continue voicing the state’s concerns.

The CM acknowledged the commendable work being undertaken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “He is the right leader at the right time. Through initiatives like Operation Sindoor, a strong message has been sent to terrorists. MPs should actively engage in discussions on issues such as Operation Sindoor and the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, and affirm the Centre’s position where appropriate,” he stated.

Naidu noted, “It was due to continuous consultations that we were able to push `180 crore worth of bills related to NREGA back into process.” He urged MPs to similarly focus on central schemes such as Jal Jeevan Mission and the Ayushman Bharat Health Mission to secure additional funding.

“MPs must be thoroughly informed on all issues and keep relevant data ready. You must also remain alert to evolving political developments. I was able to advocate effectively for the state’s interests at the recent CMs’ meeting of Telugu states in Delhi because I was equipped with accurate and comprehensive information,” he noted.

He urged MPs to strengthen their connection with constituents and refrain from involving themselves in irrelevant matters. “Do not act in a way that reduces your role to that of a one-time MP. Serve in line with the people’s expectations,” he said.

Naidu directed the MPs to ensure that mango farmers received appropriate support from the Centre. They must engage in discussions on reducing GST for the pulp industry, and to bring recent developments in Andhra Pradesh to the notice of Parliament.

He called for focus on contemporary initiatives such as Quantum Valley, Green Hydrogen Valley, population management, and the P4 initiative.