Narasimha Rao Was India’s Deng Xiaoping: CM

VIJAYAWADA: Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has called upon the youth to enter politics, saying, “Politicians shape policy. Youth must participate in politics to shape the future of the nation.”

Naidu delivered a lecture on “The Life and Legacy of PV Narasimha Rao Garu” at the Prime Minister Museum and Library, Teen Murti Marg, New Delhi. He paid rich tributes to the former PM, praising his intellectual prowess, the reformist zeal, and his profound contributions to the nation’s political and economic landscape.

Naidu compared Narasimha Rao’s strategic and reformist pushes to that of Deng Xiaoping of China, who initiated China’s reforms in 1978. He said public policy and political will to execute it were a strong combination for leadership. Turning a crisis into an opportunity, Rao launched the historic 1991 economic reforms, majorly transforming India's future. “We are all here today enjoying the fruits of the reforms he initiated,” Naidu said.

The CM recalled the warm and respectful relationship between himself and PV, rooted in the spirit of the Telugu brotherhood and described the former PM as a shining example of wisdom and political maturity. “The Telugu community is proud of him. He was a true Telugu Bidda (son) who reshaped the destiny of our great nation.”

Speaking about the economic scenario of pre-1991 India, the CM outlined how the country was shackled under the License Raj, with growth stagnating at 3-4%. By 1991, India faced an unprecedented economic crisis, and foreign reserves had dropped to dangerously low levels.

Naidu reflected on the IT boom that followed the economic liberalisation and credited Rao for enabling India’s first-mover advantage in this sector.

He described 2014 as a turning point, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi with ushering in a new era of bold, decisive leadership. Under Modi's stewardship, India rose from the 11th to the 4th largest economy, with the trajectory being clear for the nation to become the 3rd largest economy by 2028.

Responding to audience questions, Naidu elaborated on his vision for Andhra Pradesh, particularly in the technology sector. He said that the Quantum Valley initiative was in line with the National Quantum Mission, aiming to create India’s answer to Silicon Valley. He highlighted curriculum reforms, youth leadership in his party, and a conscious effort to bring young, educated MLAs into governance.

He reiterated the launch of Swarna Andhra Pradesh 2047, a blueprint for a healthy, wealthy and happy state, driven by inclusive development.