Vote on Account 2024-25

Speech of
Sri Buggana Rajendranath
Minister for Finance
7th February, 2024
Hon'ble Speaker Sir,

With your permission, I rise to present the Vote-on-Account budget for

the financial year 2024-25 before this august House.

2. I would like to mention that today, I feel greatly honoured and privileged
for having the opportunity to present our State's Budgets for the last five years.

3. The experience of our government, while serving the people of Andhra

Pradesh has been truly gratifying, and our feelings are best expressed by the
words of Mahatma Gandhi,

"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others"

4. Five years ago, while presenting my first budget, I stated that our Hon'ble
Chief Minister Sri Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy garu, regarded our manifesto as a
sacrosanct text. It was a collation of expressions of the genuine needs of the
people of Andhra Pradesh, our Hon'ble Chief Minister had observed during his
3,648 km padayatra and meeting people from all sections of society, especially
the poor and vulnerable. His energy and motivation have been the driving force
for ensuring that all the commitments made in our manifesto are implemented
on a saturation approach, disregarding political affiliation.

This echoes the philosophy of late Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy garu, I quote,
"…while leaving none behind, we should be doing more for the disadvantaged."

45
5. Abraham Lincoln famously said that democracy is about "the government
of the people, by the people, for the people".

6. The Indian democracy which has enshrined this tenet, has also much to
owe to the father of our Constitution, Dr B.R. Ambedkar who viewed the
ideals of equality, liberty, and fraternity as pillars of democracy and justice. In
homage to the visionary leader and architect of our Constitution, our government
has installed the 206 ft world's tallest Dr. Ambedkar statue - the 'Statue of
Social Justice' at Swaraj maidan in Vijayawada. His ideals serve as a guiding
light for our government.

Our government has put the thoughts of these two visionaries into action.
We have exhibited to the people of Andhra Pradesh that theirs' is a government
of the people, by the people, and for the people. Our government has discharged
the moral imperative responsibility of removing inequalities; protection and
empowerment of vulnerable groups; creating enabling conditions for human
capacity development by providing access to quality education, nutrition,
healthcare & financial support for livelihood activities. These are essential
conditions for sustainable growth.

7. Inspired by the leadership, vision and spirit of service of our Hon'ble

Chief Minister at every step along the way, our government has followed the
cardinal principal of implementing our promises and fulfilling the aspirations of
the people. The dedication and responsibility demonstrated by him towards
welfare of the people reminds me of the principle articulated by Kautilya in
Arthashastra more than 2000 years ago,

Which means,

"The ruler is the one who considers the happiness and

well-being of his people as his own happiness and well-being"

46
8. Hon'ble Chief Minister's steadfast belief that any challenge, no matter
how difficult, is not unsurmountable and can be upended into opportunities has
been instrumental in Andhra Pradesh regaining its place amongst the most
progressive states in the country after bifurcation.

Pathbreaking Governance Initiatives

9. Andhra Pradesh is a young state brimming with ambition and energy

but also handicapped by the bifurcation-related disruption and losses. However,
being a new state has provided the opportunity to start with a clean slate,
reimagine boundaries, and catapult to a high growth path.

10. Besides our Chief Minister's accumulated experiences during his long
padayatra convinced him that the problems of the state cannot be addressed
through incremental measures. Instead, they require measures that break the
entrenched status quo and usher in a new paradigm in governance and
development.

11. Accordingly, over the last five years, our government has harnessed this
opportunity with several pathbreaking initiatives that are having a
transformational impact on the lives of the people. These initiatives implemented
through Navaratnalu, Manifesto schemes, and strategic interventions are in close
alignment with the intent of the Sustainable Development Goals. The programs
have delivered positive outcomes and have met national and global acclaim.
The transformational impact has been brought about due to both new ideas and
innovation, and also the unprecedented scale of many of these initiatives - done
on a saturation mode and within a short time period.

"The important thing for Government is not to do things which

individuals are doing already, and to do them a little better or a little worse; but
to do those things which at present are not done at all."
-John Maynard Keynes

47
12. I would now elaborate on the transformative impacts of some of the
important pathbreaking initiatives of our government.

I. Suparipalita Andhra

Decentralization of Governance - Gadapa Vaddake Prabhutvam

13. Arguably the most important requirement for good governance and
development is decentralization and empowerment of the people. Our
government has taken several steps in the direction of taking governance to the
doorsteps of the people. They include dramatically strengthening the government
at the village-level, landmark reorganization of the administrative units, and
empowering communities.

14. The decentralization extends beyond district restructuring to include

reorganization of police services, empowering local law enforcement to
collaborate closely with the residents, and ensure a more responsive and
accountable approach to public safety. Through community contracting, the
decision-making process fosters active citizen participation and promotes a sense
of ownership in the local community, ultimately strengthening the fabric of
democracy at the grassroots level.

15. The establishment of 15,004 Gram and Ward Sachivalayams along with
recruitment of around 1.35 lakh functionaries and 2.66 lakh volunteers has
ensured last mile delivery of welfare schemes and citizen centric services to the
intended beneficiaries in a transparent, seamless and timely manner without
leakages.

16. Our government carried out administrative restructuring by increasing

the number of districts from the 13 to 26 and revenue divisions from 52 to 77
including Kuppam subdivision, by making optimal use of resources. This has
brought governance closer to the people and made government more
accountable, efficient and effective. The construction of new integrated modern
Collectorate Complexes will further facilitate easier access of services to the
people.

48
17. In order to enhance the safety and security of the citizens, our government
reorganised and established new police sub-divisions as well as police stations
wherever necessary. For instance, Kuppam Police Subdivision was created with
jurisdiction of six police stations. Disha Police Stations have been established in
every District. Tourist police stations at 20 important religious and tourist
destinations were opened in various districts. These measures have bolstered
security infrastructure, addressing public safety concerns.

18. To ensure responsive governance, the Gadapa Gadapaku Mana

Prabhutvamu program was implemented, under which the public
representatives took feedback directly from the citizens and took cognisance of
gaps in basic amenities and infrastructure. More than 58,000 high impact works
with an estimated cost of Rs.2,356 crore were sanctioned & 17,239 works to a
tune of Rs.729 crore are completed, so far.

19. Finally, our government has constituted the Fifth State Finance
Commission to deepen participatory democracy in the State & also approved
the recommendations of the Fourth State Finance Commission providing
greater resources to the local bodies.

II. Samarthya Andhra

Holistic Human Development- Paurula Pai Pettubadi

"Knowledge is power. Information is liberating.
Education is the premise of progress,
in every society, in every family." - Kofi Annan

20. The greatest wealth of a country are its citizens. The development of
their capabilities is essential to ensure that they emerge as productive citizens
who can contribute meaningfully to the development and economic growth of
the state. Our government has therefore made human capital development its
biggest priority over the last five years.

49
21. The emphasis on investing in human capital ensures that individuals can
adapt to changing economic landscapes and promote inclusive growth. By
combining initiatives in education, health, and skills development, our
government strives to create a society where equal opportunities are not just a
distant ideal but a tangible reality for everyone.

22. To make our children globally competitive, our government has

introduced English medium education in all government schools, has affiliated
1,000 schools covering 4,39,595 students into CBSE, and taken steps to introduce
International Baccalaureate (IB) syllabus and TOEFL certification to every
child.

23. To facilitate learning through innovative methods, our government has

installed 62,000 Interactive Flat Panels with in-built content in all schools &
provided 9,52,925 free TABs with pre-loaded content to students and teachers
to promote self-learning. This has dramatically improved classroom instruction
and learning outcomes, thereby empowering 34.3 lakh students from 4th to
12th grade.

24. Pioneering the adoption of the New Education Policy 2020, 14,255 AWCs
have been co-located with nearby Primary Schools, and 4,470 Primary Schools
have been co-located with nearby High Schools. This has provided children
with access to qualified subject teachers & improved the quality of instruction.

25. Under Jagananna Vidya Kanuka, school-kits with uniform, bags, shoes,
textbooks, etc. have been provided to 47 lakh children annually, at a cost of
Rs.3,367 crore till date. Similarly, Pre-School kits with 26 items on activity-
based learning have also been distributed to all the 55,607 AWCs.

26. Mana Badi - Nadu Nedu has enhanced the learning environment in
56,703 government schools, welfare hostels, & junior colleges, encompassing
essential components such as furniture, drinking water, improved sanitation,
and well-equipped classrooms. Phase I is completed covering 15,715 schools &

50
Phase II continues this momentum in 22,344 schools. An amount of Rs. 7,163
crore has been spent so far under Nadu-Nedu. Under this scheme, 99.81 %
schools have been provided basic infrastructure.

27. Mid-Day Meal scheme is revamped by Jagananna Gorumudda to serve

tasty & quality food to more than 43 lakh students & Rs. 1,910 crore per annum
is incurred, which is four times the expenditure of the previous government. To
address malnutrition & anaemia, YSR Sampoorna Poshana plu s is
implemented in 77 tribal mandals and YSR Sampoorna Poshana in plain areas,
benefitting 35.71 lakh women and children. These schemes have reduced the
percentage of anaemic pregnant women aged 15-49 years from 53.7% in 2019
to 24.66 % in 2023; reduced the percentage of stunted children under five years
from 31.2% in 2019 to 6.84% in 2023.

Higher Education
"Education makes us the human beings we are.
It has major impacts on economic development,
on social equity, gender equity.
In all kinds of ways, our lives are transformed
by education and security"
-Amartya Sen

28. Our Hon'ble Chief Minister considers any expenditure on education as

an investment for the future. Andhra Pradesh is the only state in the country to
take complete responsibility for providing higher education free of cost to all
eligible students.

29. Under Jagananna Vidya Deevena, Rs.11,901 crore and under

Jagananna Vasathi Deevena Rs. 4,276 crore is incurred and has benefited
about 52 lakh students. The dramatic decline in drop-out percentage in higher
education from 20.37% in 2018-19 to 6.62% in 2022-23 can be attributed to
these two schemes.

51
30. Under Jagananna Videsi Vidya Deevena, 1,858 SC/ST/BC/Minority
students are benefitted up to Rs. 1.25 crore per student for pursuing higher
education in the top 50 globally ranked universities.

31. The government has facilitated short-term internships for more than
1.95 lakh under-graduate students, many of them in MNCs like Microsoft,
Salesforce, AWS, Palo Alto, Blue Prism, etc.

32. For the first time in the country, our government has created a 50%
government quota in medical/dental courses and a 35% quota in all other courses
in private universities in our State. As a result, 2118 students could join prestigious
private universities.

Healthcare

There is an ancient Roman saying:

"Salus populi suprema lex esto" which means,

"The health of the people should be the supreme law"

33. Public health infrastructure is central for effective last-mile delivery of

healthcare services. Nadu-Nedu (Health) with investment of Rs. 16,852 crore,
has strengthened health facilities from Sub-Centres to Teaching Hospital and
provides quality health care services to the people. 1,142 PHCs have been
renovated and made functional 24/7 with 2 shifts.

34. Our Chief Minister has conceptualised the idea of Family Doctor as an
innovative program to take healthcare to doorstep of the people. About 284
family doctors, types of medical tests and types of medicines have been made
accessible to the people.

35. To complement the Family Doctor, the fleet of 108-Ambulances &

Mobile Medical Units (104 Services) is expanded to ensure that there is
minimum availability of 1 unit each per mandal.

52
36. Dr. YSR Aargoyasri scheme is reimagined, enhancing the income limit
from Rs. 2.5 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh per annum per family; providing services up to
Rs.25 lakh per family per annum, including unlimited coverage for critical
ailments like cancer; increase in procedures from 1,059 to 3,257; and expansion
of coverage to Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore. The number of beneficiaries
has increased from 13.82 lakh between 2014 - 2019 to 35.91 lakh between
2019 - 2023. Further, a 200-bed Dr YSR Kidney Research & Super Speciality
Hospital has been established at Palasa to provide corporate treatment free of
cost to kidney patients.

37. Under the innovative scheme of Dr. YSR Aarogya Aasara, Rs. 225
per day is provided from December 2019 to over 25 lakh poor patients as post-
operative sustenance allowance at a cost of Rs. 1,366 crore.

38. Under Jagananna Arogya Suraksha, free doorstep healthcare services

along with free medicines were provided through camps covering 1.67 crore
families.

39. Recruitment of 53,126 healthcare staff was done to deliver high quality
medical care. As a result, the average vacancies of Specialist Doctors in public
hospitals were brought down to 4% as against national average of 61%, which is
lowest in the country.

Skill Development & Training

"Skill is the unified force of experience,

intellect and passion in their operation."
- John Ruskin, an English writer, philosopher of the 19th century

40. Our government is deeply committed to empowering our youth with

relevant skills that match industry needs and drive sustainable growth. We have
created a robust ecosystem built on strong industry partnerships, quality
infrastructure, and innovative programs like Cascading Skill Ecosystem, with

53
Skill University, Skill Colleges, and Skill Hubs to cater to diverse skilling needs.
So far, 192 Skill Hubs at Assembly Constituency level and 27 Skill Colleges at
Parliamentary Constituency level have been established and 1.06 lakh candidates
have been trained in FY 2023-24 in 21 sectors, of which 95% are placed.

41. Virtual labs and class rooms are set up in 201 government polytechnics
and KIA motors, Maruti, Toyota, Isuzu, Hitachi, Samsung, etc. have set up labs
in 14 ITIs with sophisticated machinery and equipment to train students

III. Mana Mahila Maharanula Andhra

Empowered Woman - Nari Shakti

"I measure the progress of a community by

the degree of progress which women have achieved."
-Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

42. No state can progress without ensuring the welfare and empowerment
of half of its population. In recognition of this, our government initiated several
transformative programs at massive scale aimed at helping the women of Andhra
Pradesh stand up on their feet and become equal participants in the economy.
By addressing economic barriers, women are empowered to actively contribute
to and benefit from the broader developmental journey.

43. Since FY 2021-22, the introduction of Gender Budget and Child Budget
facilitates the scrutiny of budgets through the gender lens & ensures safeguarding
health, protection, and holistic development of women and children.

44. The Jagananna Ammavodi scheme was aimed at removing poverty as

a barrier for accessing quality education and ensuring equity. An amount of Rs.
26,067 crore has been provided to over 43.61 lakh mahila maharanis, benefiting
more than 83 lakh students of classes I to Intermediate. As a result, the Adjusted
Net Enrolment Ratio in elementary education has increased from 87.8 in 2019
to 98.73 in 2023. The GER in higher secondary has increased from 46.88% in
2019 to 79.69% during the last 4 years.

54
45. The failure of the previous government to support SHGs in the state led
to their deep indebtedness and financial ruin. Our government stood by its
manifesto promise & implemented the YSR Aasara scheme to reimburse the
outstanding debt of SHG as on 11th April 2019. Since 2019, Rs 25,571 crore is
reimbursed to 78.94 lakh mahila maharanis in 7.98 lakh SHGs.

46. Under YSR Sunna Vaddi, our government disbursed Rs 4,969 crore to
mahila maharanis which has led to reactivation of SHGs which had become
defunct during the previous government. As a result, outstanding NPAs which
used to be 18.36% have drastically reduced to a meagre 0.17%, which is the
lowest in the country.

47. Through YSR Cheyutha scheme, over 26 lakh mahila maharanis have
secured their livelihood through economic activities with a disbursal of Rs.
14,129 crore.

48. Under Jagananna Paala Velluva scheme, Rs 2,697 crore has been
spent to facilitate 3.6 lakh mahila maharanis to get higher income from dairy.

49. For enhancing the security of women and children the Disha Mobile
App with more than 1 crore users, Disha Patrol vehicles, and 26 Disha Police
Stations are established.

IV. Annapoorna Andhra

Remunerative and Sustainable Agriculture - Rythe Raju

"Farming looks mighty easy when your plow is a pencil

and you're a thousand miles from the cornfield."
- Dwight D. Eisenhower

Rythannaku jejelu!

50. To bolster the livelihoods of farmers, our government has crafted a

comprehensive strategy for making agriculture both productive and resilient.

55
The government provides financial assistance and multiple safety nets to farmers
viz., Price Stabilisation Fund, crop insurance, input subsidy, etc. thereby ensuring
a more stable and secure environment for agriculture.

51. Since 2019, Rs 33,300 crore has been credited to the accounts of 53.53
lakh famers, including 1.60 lakh tenants and 93 thousand RoFR farmers, through
DBT mode under Dr.YSR Rythu Bharosa-PM KISAN. The financial assistance
of Rs 13,500 for tenant and ROFR cultivators has been provided entirely by
our government.

52. Under Dr. YSR Free Crop Insurance, the government has settled claim
amount of Rs.7,802 crore to 54.55 lakh farmers accounts. In comparison, the
previous government had settled claims of only Rs. 3,411 crore for 30.85 lakh
farmers.

53. Under Dr. YSR Sunna Vaddi Panta Runalu, from Kharif 2019, the
government has credited Rs 1,835 crore in 73.88 lakh farmers' bank accounts
including the dues of the previous government.

54. 10,778 Dr.YSR Rythu Bharosa Kendralu are established as one stop
centre to provide services to farmers at their doorstep. It has been acclaimed by
the NITI Aayog as a best practice for emulation by others.

55. In addition, we are providing 9-hour daily uninterrupted free power to

more than 19 lakh agricultural connections incurring Rs.37,374 crore since 2019;
established the Price Stabilization Fund of Rs.3,000 crore to provide MSP;
promptly provided input subsidy of Rs.1,977 crore to 22.85 lakh farmers as
immediate relief for crop losses and Rs.1,200 crore more is being released this
month.

56. Our government has also established 127 new Dr. YSR Agri Testing
Labs; implemented Dr. YSR Polambadi; created post harvest infrastructure
through the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund; provided agriculture machinery
under YSR Yantra Seva Padhakam; and pioneered drone pilot training of
farmers and village youth.

56
 Thus, our government's comprehensive basket of initiatives covering the
full spectrum of inputs, credit, insurance, post-harvest management, marketing,
and fair prices is transforming agriculture in the state as never before.

Horticulture

57. Our government provided Rs.4,363 crore through various schemes

benefitting 17.27 lakh farmers in the horticulture sector. To strengthen the
extension network, 2356 Village Horticulture Assistants have been recruited
and posted in RBKs. Additional storage capacity of 2.44 lakh MTs involving
462 Collection Centres, 84 Solar Cold Rooms, 2905 Pack Houses have been
created to prevent post-harvest losses and fetch better prices for farmers.

Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development & Fisheries

58. Jagananna Paala Velluva, has helped dairy farmers get higher prices
up to Rs.5 to Rs.20 per litre than earlier. Chittoor Dairy is being revived in
collaboration with AMUL with an investment of Rs 385 crore to provide
employment to 5,000 people directly and 2 lakh indirectly.

59. Livestock insurance is provided through YSR Pasu Bhima Padhakam

scheme & Dr. YSR Sanchara Pasu Arogya Seva with 340 Mobile Ambulatory
Veterinary Clinics has resulted in doorstep delivery of services to farmers.

Fisheries

60. Under YSR Matsyakara Bharosa, 2.43 lakh fishermen families

benefitted from enhancement of the fishing ban-period relief from Rs 4,000 to
Rs 10,000. The enhanced subsidy on diesel oil from Rs 6.03 per litre to Rs 9.00
per litre covers 20,034 fishing boats. The ex-gratia for untimely death of
fishermen during fishing was enhanced from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.

61. Ten Fishing Harbours are being constructed, as per international

standards to facilitate deep sea fishing & 35 integrated aqua labs are being
established to provide inputs testing facilities at the village level. For market
57
linkage, 2,000 'Fish Andhra' retail stores are established and linked to the 26
Aqua hubs.

62. The AP State Aquaculture Development Authority was established for

regulation, monitoring and promoting aquaculture. The Fishery Sciences
University in West Godavari District is functioning from 1st April 2022.

63. New livelihood opportunities to 16.5 lakh people have been generated
by bringing 2.12 lakh hectares of area under aquaculture, making the state the
Aqua Hub of India.

V. Samkshema Andhra

Robust Social Safety Net - Pedarikam Pai Yudham

"The test of our progress is not whether we add
more to the abundance of those who have much;
it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little."
- Franklin D. Roosevelt

64. Our government has tailored a robust social safety net to address the
needs of the economically and socially vulnerable. This inclusive framework
encompasses multiple initiatives such as house sites distribution, housing, welfare
pensions, doorstep delivery of rations, income support, etc. schemes. This effort
underscores a commitment to eradicating poverty at its roots based on the
cardinal principle that every individual, deserves a dignified and secure life.

Housing

65. Our government distributed 30,65,315 houses pattas since 2019 worth
Rs.1.53 lakh crore, as against 4,63,697 house pattas distributed in the previous
five years.

66. Under Pedalandariki Illu, our government is providing each beneficiary

Rs. 1.80 lakh towards unit cost and an additional benefit of Rs. 6.90 lakh towards

58
infrastructure, which has helped in expediting the pace of construction. Out of
the planned 22 lakh houses, nearly 9 lakh houses have been completed. The
remaining houses are targeted to be completed by December, 2024.

67. YSR Jagananna Colonies are being developed as model villages,

providing the required physical infrastructure such as drinking water supply,
electricity, roads, etc. at an estimated cost of Rs.32,909 crore. So far, 1,62,538
beneficiaries have started residing in the YSR Jagananna Colonies.

Welfare

Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)

68. In tune with the motto of the government of reaching out to all the
deserving without any discrimination, and ensuring the benefits reach without
any leakages, the government is implementing all welfare schemes in the DBT
mode, leveraging the Village and Ward Secretariats and Volunteer network.
This has ensured that the benefits reach all the deserving beneficiaries,
irrespective of caste, religion, and any other affiliations on a real time basis.
This also provided reassuring protection to people from the financial distress
and hardship caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. I take this opportunity for
thanking the staff of the Village and Ward Secretariats and Volunteers who
have worked selflessly and tirelessly for making the vision of the government a
reality, and making it a model for the country.

69. To put things in perspective, Rs. 2.53 lakh crore was spent through DBT
between 2019-20 to 2023-24 & non-DBT transfers were Rs. 1.68 lakh crore.
Rs. 4.21 lakh crore has thus been transferred to the hands of the people in the
last five years.

70. Due to the DBT regime of our government, lakhs of families have escaped
poverty, uplifted their standard of living, and availed new opportunities for
growth & development. This is exemplified by the fact that, the per-capita income
(NSDP) of Andhra Pradesh has showed a quantum jump from Rs. 1,54,031 in

59
2018-19 to Rs. 2,19,518 in 2022-23 and the rank has improved to 9th from
18th.

YSR Pension Kanuka

71. Under YSR Pension Kanuka, being implemented on saturation mode,

the eligible age criterion was reduced from 65 years to 60 years, the amount
enhanced to Rs. 3,000 from 1st January 2024 and new health related pensions
sanctioned with Rs. 10,000 per month. The monthly disbursal of pensions has
increased from Rs.1,385 crore in 2019 to Rs. 1,968 crore in January 2024.
Since 2019, our government disbursed Rs 84,731 crore through YSR Pension
Kanuka to 66.35 lakh beneficiaries.

Public Distribution System

72. We introduced 9,260 Mobile Dispensing Units for doorstep delivery of

civil supplies. This has eliminated the hardships faced by elderly, differently
abled & wage labourers & also provided gainful employment of the MDU
owners belonging to the SC/ST/BC/EBC/Minority communities.

73. Our government has enhanced the expenditure incurred under rice
subsidy. Against Rs 14,256 crore incurred during 2014-2019, Rs 29,628 crore
has been incurred from 2019 to 2023.

74. Under YSR Bima, from 2022-23 till date, more than 45,000 families in
case of natural death and more than 4,000 families in case of accidental death
have been supported with an amount of Rs. 650 crore.

75. A separate Department of Economically Weaker Sections Welfare

was created to focus on all round development of poor Kapu, Kamma, Reddy,
Brahmin, Arya Vysya, Kshatriya and EBCs. During 2019-2024, Rs.36,321 crore
was spent covering 1.15 crore beneficiaries.

60
76. Under YSR Kalyanamasthu for SC, ST, BC, Minorities other than
Muslims, Differently Abled, & under YSR Shaadi Tohfa for Muslim Minorities
more than Rs. 350 crore has been disbursed to 46,329 beneficiaries.

77. Under YSR EBC Nestham, Rs. 1,257 crore is disbursed to 4.39 lakh
women from economically backward sections of the Reddy, Kamma,
Aryavaisya, Brahmin, Kshatriya, Velama, and other OC communities.

78. Under YSR Kapu Nestham, Rs. 2,029 crore is disbursed to 3.57 lakh
women from the Kapu, Balija, Telaga, and Ontari community. For welfare of
the Kapu community, our government has incurred Rs. 39,247 crore, benefiting
77 lakh persons, through both Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) and non-DBT
means.

79. Under YSR Nethana Nestham, Rs. 983 crore is disbursed to 81,783
beneficiaries.

80. Under Jagananna Thodu, Rs. 3,374 crore is disbursed to 16.73 lakh
street hawkers, vendors and artisans.

81. Under Jagananna Chedhodu Scheme, Rs. 1,268 crore is disbursed to

the 3.4 lakh beneficiaries belonging to the Rajakas, Nayee Brahmins and Tailors.

82. Under YSR Vahana Mitra, Rs. 1,305 crore is disbursed to more than
2.78 lakh taxi, cab and auto drivers.

83. Under YSR Law Nestham, a monthly stipend of Rs 5,000 per month
for 3 years has been provided to 6,069 junior advocates.

84. Under NREGA, 2,141 lakh person days is generated till December 2023.
72 lakh wage seekers from 45 lakh households were provided wage employment
& payments made within 15 days.

85. As per the promise made by Hon'ble Chief Minister during the padayatra,
the Government has come to the succour of the Agrigold victims and assistance
of Rs.883.5 crore has been disbursed.

61
Social Welfare

86. In addition to the DBT and priority schemes, our government also
implements several programs for the holistic development of youth from SC
communities. The students from Social Welfare Residential Schools have
performed commendably in competitive exams like JEE and NEET. Over 200
students have secured admissions in IITs, NITs and other premier colleges from
2019 to 2023. Furthermore, eight students were selected for the completely
funded one year Kennedy Lugar-Youth Exchange and Study Program. One
student also represented at the UN conference on SDG in New York in
September 2023.

Tribal Welfare

87. Under the leadership of Hon'ble Chief Minister, from June 2019 till
date, 1,29,842 individual titles for 2,19,763 acres, 526 Community titles for
67,946 acres have been are recognised. Further, 26,287 DKT pattas for 39,272
acres have been distributed to empower tribal communities and uphold their
rightful claims to land.

88. Free power was enhanced from 100 to 200 units per month for ST
households. To provide the income security to tribal coffee farmers, our
government has expanded existing coffee plantations, rejuvenated existing
plantations, improve quality of coffee through provision of pulpers, organic
certification and facilitated marketing through GCC.

BC Welfare

89. Our government established 56 new corporations for BCs. In the last 5
years, our government has spent Rs 71,740 crore covering 102 lakh beneficiaries
under various programs and schemes for BC welfare.

62
Minority Welfare

90. Our government has assisted the students belonging to the Minority
communities to overcome the socio-economic & educational backwardness, by
supporting with coaching for job-oriented exams, competitive exams and school
level exams. In 2023-24, nearly 5,000 students benefitted.

91. The assistance provided for Imams was enhanced from Rs. 5000 to Rs.
10,000 per month to benefit 4,983 Imams and for Mouzzams from Rs. 3,000
to Rs. 5,000 per month to benefit 4,983 Mouzzams. Pastors were provided
assistance of Rs.5000 per month from 2021-22 to benefit 8427 Pastors. Further,
the government sanctioned Rs. 80,000 to each pilgrim proceedings for Haj from
Vijayawada embarkation point for the year 2023 benefitting 1,756 pilgrims.
Similarly, an assistance up to Rs. 60,000 was provided to 1,178 pilgrims to
Jerusalem since 2019.

VI. Sampanna Andhra

Infrastructure & Productivity - Abhyunnathi sankalpam

92. Infrastructure is the foundation for economic growth. Our government

has undertaken several pathbreaking initiatives to accelerate industrialization
and enhance competitiveness. The AP Industrial Policy 2023-27 and related
policies provide the necessary underpinning for this strategy cutting across
diverse sectors with an aim to create a vibrant industrial ecosystem.

93. The infrastructure investments range from community assets in villages,

like the Sachivalayams, YSR Clinics, etc. to strategic investments in pivotal
infrastructure elements like ports, fishing harbors, airports, industrial corridors,
etc. and ambitious new initiatives like 17 new medical colleges underscore a
resolute commitment to construct a robust foundation poised not only to spur
economic growth but also to elevate the overall quality of life for residents of
the state.

63
94. Mindful of the need for a holistic approach, the physical infrastructure
is being converged with soft infrastructure like skilled manpower, digital
knowledge, & social infrastructure like health, education and housing, to realise
the full potential of these investments & maximise employment creation. This
will lay the foundation for a thriving and resilient industrial sector that will
propel our state towards greater prosperity.

Ports & Airports

"A nation is great not by its size alone. It is the will, the cohesion, the stamina,
the discipline of its people and the quality of their leaders which ensure it an
honourable place in history."
-Lee Kuan Yew

95. Four greenfield ports are being constr ucted at Ramayapatnam,

Machilipatnam, Mulapeta, Kakinada with total investment of Rs. 20,000 crore,
additional capacity of 110 MTPA by 2025-26, and employment potential of
around 75,000 persons.

96. Ten Fishing Harbours are being constructed with an investment of Rs.
3,800 crore at Juvvaladinne, Nizampatnam, Machilipatnam, Uppada,
Budagatlapalem, Kothapatnam, Vodarevu, Budagatlapalem, Biyyaputhippa, and
Manchineellapeta. This would add 4.5 lakh tonnes of additional fish and prawn
catch worth of Rs. 9,000 crore as GVA employment potential of 1,00,000
persons.

97. Additionally, development of 6 Fish Landing Centres with an investment

of Rs. 127 crore is initiated at Chintapalli, Bheemili, Rajayyapeta, Dondawaka,
Uppalanka, and Rayadaruvu.

98. The AP Inland Waterways Authority was established in June 2023

for the development of inland water transport. AP's first riverine project, between
Muktyala and Madipadu on Krishna river has been conceived in a record time
of five months and is ready for implementation.
64
99. Our government has revitalized the development works of Bhogapuram
International Airport, and airports at Gannavaram, Kadapa, Rajahmundry,
Tirupati, Kurnool, and Visakhapatnam. Flight operations have already
commenced at Kurnool.

Roads

100. Our Government has incurred an expenditure of Rs.2,626 crore for the
development of State Highways, Rs.1,955 crore for Major District Roads and
Rs.272 crore under RCPLWE during last 5 years. Under NDB project phase-1,
1,243 Kms roads are being developed with an outlay of Rs.3,014 crore. Under
NIDA-1, 98 State Highway works and 132 MDR have been completed with an
expenditure of Rs.1,158 crore. The riding quality of 8,286 Kms has been
improved with an expenditure of Rs.2,205 through APRDC. 19 ROBs with an
outlay of Rs.992 crore are being developed under SETU BANDHAN and other
grants. About 350 km of National Highways are improved as two lane with
paved shoulders / 4 lane with Rs.7,182 crore. 10 roads with a length of 872.52
km have been declared as new National Highways by MORTH.

Andhra Pradesh Fibre Grid - Every Village Connected

101. Our government has successfully completed the implementation of the

BharatNet Phase-II Project in November 2023. A total of 55,000 km of Optical
Fiber Network was laid connecting 11,254 Gram Panchayats across 613
mandals. 30Gpbs throughput was achieved in each Gram Panchayat though the
required provision by GoI is just 1Gbps. All Village and Ward Secretariats,
Rythu Bharosa Kendralu, Schools and PHCs are internet enabled

New Medical Institutions

102. While, since independence, only 11 Government Medical Colleges were

established in the State, our government has sanctioned 17 new Government
Medical Colleges. So far, 10 new Medical Colleges, 10 Teaching Hospitals, 4
Other Hospitals and 3 Nursing Colleges have been established. Three super

65
speciality hospitals such as Kidney Research Centre in Palasa, Childrens' Heart
Centre in Tirupati, and 6 Cancer Centres are also established.

103. Special attention is bestowed to establish multi-speciality hospitals in

tribal-dominated areas of Seethampeta, Parvathipuram, Rampachodavaram,
Buttayigudem, & Dornala, to bridge the gap in healthcare access and promote
equity.

New Knowledge Institutions

104. Our government has also established the Tribal Engineering College at
Kurupam, Central Tribal University at Vizianagaram, JNTU at Gurajada,
Vizianagaram, Andhra Kesari University at Ongole, Dr. YSR Architecture and
Fine Arts University at YSR Kadapa, New Model Degree College for Women
in Araku, and Cluster University at Kurnool to provide accessible and inclusive
higher education for all sections of the society. Our government has also
sanctioned the second National Law University of the State at Kurnool.

Water Resources

105. The government is committed to complete the Polavaram National

Project, the lifeline of Andhra. The government is taking all steps to get the
revised cost estimates of the project approved by the GoI and has expedited
the construction activity. The works are progressing at a brisk pace. The progress
of Headworks which was at 42% in May 2019 is now more than 70%. For the
first time in the history of river Godavari, the flood water is being diverted
through spillway duly erecting all the radial gates.

106. On 30th November 2023, Owk Tunnel-II was inaugurated by the Hon'ble
Chief Minister which will carry additional 10,000 cusecs of water to Gandikota
Reservoir. The Tunnel 3 is nearing completion with an estimated cost of Rs.1,079
crore. This will irrigate 2.06 lakh acres in Kadapa, Chittoor, & Nellore districts
& provide drinking water to 20 lakh people across 640 villages.

66
107. On 19th September 2023, the Hon'ble Chief Minister has inaugurated
the 77 Tanks Project. Since then, 1.24 TMC of water has been lifted, stabilising
10,394 acres and increasing drinking water table level in Dhone, Pattikonda,
Alur and Panyam Constituencies. This has resulted in dramatic increase of
ground level water, & immensely benefited the farmers, who were solely
dependent on rains in the endemically drought-prone regions.

108. The Sri Mekapati Goutham Reddy Sangam Barrage and Nellore Barrage
were inaugurated by Hon'ble Chief Minister on 6th September 2022 to stabilise
the ayacut of 2.85 lakh acres under Pennar Delta System, Kavali canal, and
Kanupur canal, & the ayacut of 99,525 acres under Pennar Delta System.

109. The Poola Subbaiah Veligonda Project is being implemented to provide

drinking water facilities to 15.25 lakh people in the 30 drought prone and fluoride
affected mandals of Prakasam, Nellore & Kadapa Districts. The Tunnel 1 and
Tunnel 2 of the projects have been completed and are ready to be inaugurated.

110. The Kuppam branch canal of HNSS Phase-2 has been completed and
planned for inauguration during this month and will feed 110 Minor Irrigation
tanks in Kuppam constituency.

111. Our government is committed to complete all the priority projects in a

timebound manner. The works under Uttaraandhra Srujala Sravanthi project,
Tarakarama Tirthasagaram, Gajapathinagaram Branch Canal, Vamsadhaara
Nagavali link, Hiramandalam reservoir, Gotta LIS, SGL Thotapalli barrage
project, Mahendratanaya offshore reservoir, Thandava LIS, Rayalaseema
Drought Mitigation Scheme, etc. are under brisk progress.

Drinking Water

112. Nine drinking water projects were sanctioned with an amount of Rs.
10,137 crore in 9 districts to cover water stressed and quality affected habitations.
The Hon'ble Chief Minister has inaugurated the YSR Sujaladhara project on
14th December 2023 to supply 1.12 TMC purified safe drinking water to 807

67
villages in 7 mandals in the Uddanam area, where chronic kidney diseases are
prevalent, resolving the decades-long plight.

Energy

113. The per capita consumption of electricity, a key indicator of economic

development, has increased from 1,203 units in 2019-20 to 1,400 till December
2023. The transmission and distribution losses are reduced from 13 % to 9.27%.
The government is installing smart meters at no additional cost to consumers
for making electricity grid in the state more efficient.

114. Agreement is entered with SECI for supply of 7,000 MW per annum at
a an attractive rate of Rs. 2.49 per unit. The Hon'ble Chief Minister has dedicated
to the State, the 2nd stage 800 MW Unit at Sri Damodaram Sanjeeviah Thermal
Power Station, Krishnapatnam & also the Stage V 800 MW unit at NTTPS,
Ibrahimpatnam.

115. The government has notified the AP Renewable Energy Export Policy
2020, AP Pumped Storage Promotion Policy 2022 and AP Green Energy and
Green Ammonia Promotion Policy 2023 for encouraging green energy
generation for a sustainable future. Andhra Pradesh is at the forefront in the
country in identifying potential sites for promotion of Pumped Storage Hydro
Power Projects.

New Industries

116. Since 2019, over 311 large and mega industries are established, providing
employment to more than 1.3 lakh people. Further, 1.93 lakh MSMEs went
into production with investment of Rs.5,995 crore & employment for 13,67,618
persons.

117. The Global Investors' Summit held in March 2023 resulted in securing
386 agreements with investments worth Rs. 13.11 lakh crore and additional job
potential of 6.07 lakh.

68
118. From 2019 to 2023, 56,645 applications were received through the AP
Industries Single Desk Portal, out of which 54,292 applications i.e. 98.83 %
have been approved within the stipulated time.

Industrial Incentives to MSMEs

119. A Special Industrial Incentives Package for SC & ST entrepreneurs,

including women, was extended under YSR Jagananna Badugu Vikasam,
under the Industrial Development Policy 2023-27.

120. Fifty-five new clusters are identified under the MSE Cluster Development
Programme. Six Common Facility Centres are accorded final approval by GoI
with employment potential of 37,400 persons. Three infrastructure development
Projects were completed & 18 projects are under implementation with 15,144
employment generation potential.

121. Our government is also working on the expeditious implementation of

major industrial corridor projects like Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial
Corridor, Chennai-Bangalore Industrial Corridor and Hyderabad-Bangalore
Industrial Corridor for promotion of industries, including MSMEs.

122. AP Information Technology Policy 2021-2024 and AP Electronics Policy

2021-2024 are being implemented for promoting investments. Since 2019, 65
new IT companies are established, providing employment for 47,908 persons.
IT majors like Adani Data Center Park, WNS, Pulses, Randstad, and Infosys
are in the process of setting up their offices. Our Hon'ble Chief Minister
inaugurated the Infosys Development Centre at Visakhapatnam on 16th October
2023, thereby cementing its position as an emerging IT hub.

123. The Global Investors' Summit witnessed overwhelming response from

investors in electronics sector. 23 MoUs were signed, amounting to Rs 15,711
crore in investments & potential employment of 55,140. The state added 17
new electronic manufacturing companies since 2019, providing employment
opportunities for 34,750 individuals with investment of Rs 7,832 crore.

69
124. The Hon'ble Chief Minister inaugurated AIL Dixon Technologies Pvt
Ltd, laid foundation stones for two companies, and exchanged two MoUs in
July 2023 in YSR Electronics Manufacturing Cluster (EMC), Kadapa. A total
of over 6,350 jobs is expected to be created with investment of Rs 450 crore.

125. To maintain environment standards & meet the demand, Government

100 AC electric buses are introduced in Tirupati. Clearance is accorded for
1,500 new diesel BS VI buses.

126. Development of Judicial Infrastructure is being taken up & 32 Judicial

Buildings are completed & another 13 Judicial Buildings are under progress.

Urban Development

127. Under Jagananna Smart Townships, MIG layouts with 12,042 plots
covering 1,426 acres are being developed. Under AMRUT 2.0, rejuvenation of
101 urban water bodies covering more than 5,000 acres is taken up with a
project cost of Rs.189 crore. Also, 481 Urban Health Centres were newly
established.

128. Under the Clean Andhra Pradesh program, 3000 vehicles have been
provided to ULBs for door-to-door waste collection and segregation. Two waste-
to-energy plants were commissioned at Guntur & Vishakhapatnam. Legacy
waste treatment has commenced in all 123 ULBs. Three ULBs are in top 10 of
the National Swachh Awards.

Other Rural Infrastructure

129. Under Rural infrastructure, 10,893 Gram Panchayat buildings, 10,216

agriculture produce storage structures, 8,299 Bharat Nirman Seva Kendras, and
3,734 Bulk Milk Cooling Units have been constructed.

70
Youth Advancement, Tourism & Culture

"Sports is a huge medium of empowerment for women because it makes you

emotionally and physically very strong. It gives you the ability to face challenges,
chase a target."

-Deepa Malik

130. Physical education & sports play a significant role in youth development.
On these lines, our government for the 1st time in the history of the state, has
organised the Aadudam Andhra mega event at 5 levels, involving 38 lakh
players and 90 lakh spectators, allotting Rs. 119 crore, including Rs. 12.21
crore as prize money.

131. To encourage sports persons at national level, incentives under the YSR
Kreeda Protsahakaalu are being provided. To provide sports infrastructure,
41 Kreeda Vikasa Kendrams are established so far and 65 are in progress.

Tourism

132. Our State, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes,
and ancient historical sites, offers immense tourism potential. From the serene
beaches of Visakhapatnam to the sacred temples of Tirupati, and the biodiverse
landscapes of the Eastern Ghats, it's a destination that promises diverse
experiences for every traveller

133. During the Global Investor Summit 2023, 117 MoUs were signed in the
tourism sector with an investment of Rs.19,345 crore and employment potential
of 51,083, attracting marquee investors like the Oberoi Group, Novotel, Mayfair
Hotels & Resorts, and Hyatt Regency. Seventeen projects are being implemented
with an investment of Rs. 3,685 crore and potential employment opportunities
of 7,290 people.

71
Environment and Forests

134. During 2023-24, massive plantation campaign was carried out under
Jagananna Pachhathoranam by planting 5.11 crore seedlings involving
multiple stakeholders. In addition, under the Nagaravanam scheme, the
government is developing climate resilient cities by managing and expanding
green spaces.

VII. Bhubadhra Andhra

Transformative Land Governance-Mee Aasthiki Prabhu thva

Barosa

Speaking about the importance of land reforms Nelson Mandela said,

"Our land reform programme helps redress the injustices of apartheid.

It fosters national reconciliation and stability. It also underpins economic growth
and improves household welfare and food security."

135. Land is the most important economic asset for those whose livelihood
depends on it. However, over a period of time the lack of adequate and trained
manpower in the land administration system, has led to poor quality in
maintenance of land and survey records, and which has resulted in disputes and
litigation, and obstacles to realizing the full economic value of this important
asset.

136. Our government has taken several pioneering and transformational steps
to change this entrenched status quo. It's fair to say that in the last five years,
with several path-breaking initiatives, Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the leader
in land governance and improving the ease of living on land related issues.

137. The YSR Jagananna Saswatha Bhu Hakku Mariyu Bhu Raksha
scheme was launched on 21st December 2020 for resurvey of landholdings
across the state after a gap of 100 years. The resurvey is using the latest
Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) technology & the newly
72
recruited 11,118 Village surveyors. The farmers are given Bhu Hakku Patras
with geo-coordinates, thus securing the land rights of the farmers permanently.

138. The Andhra Pradesh Land Titling Act, 2022 is enacted to ensure the
security of titles to the property holders. So far, 17.53 lakh farmers have received
permanent title deeds, 4.8 lakh mutations resolved, 45,000 boundary disputes
settled. The clear system of titles has helped to increase the liquidity of land
markets, reduce land litigation and accelerate economic growth.

139. Our government has removed lands from prohibited properties u/s 22(A)
of the Registration Act 1908, such as all village service Inam lands measuring
1.37 lakh acres, benefitting 1.13 lakh farmers; 33,428.64 cents of Sharatugala
patta lands; 2.06 lakh acres of dotted lands, giving permanent rights to 1.07
farmers; 22,837 cents under Land Purchase Scheme from 1982 to 2014,
benefitting 22,346 poor landless SC beneficiaries. In addition, our government
has assigned 46,463 acres of DKT pattas to 42,307 landless poor beneficiaries,
and 9,064 acres Lanka lands to 17,768 landless poor beneficiaries.

140. This combination of initiatives reflects a visionary agenda aimed at

expanding land ownership, ensuring secure and efficient land management, and
significantly improving the overall ease of living for citizens.

Employee Welfare

141. Government employees are the linchpin of governance, instrumental in

policy implementation, service provision, and driving the state's development
agenda. Their expertise, dedication, and service underpin the administration's
efforts to enhance public welfare and ensure the smooth operation of
governmental functions across diverse sectors.

142. Our government has created 4,93,000 new jobs, of which 2,13,662 are
permanent against 34,108 jobs provided from 2014 to 2019. Around 10,000
contract employees are being regularised; absorbed 51,387 APSRTC employees
into government; announced DSC for recruitment of 6,100 vacancies; provided

73
MTS for all contract employees; established APCOS; implemented the
recommendations of 11th PRC; raised retirement age to 62 years.

143. Remuneration is enhanced for ASHAs, Tribal Community Health

Workers, Municipal outsourced Public Health workers, SERP Village
Organization Assistant, MEPMA Resource person, Home Guards, Mid-Day
Meal cook cum helper, Anganwadi Workers and Anganwadi Helpers.

144. Four battalions with 3,920 posts sanctioned and recruitment is under
process. Composite Group Personal Accident Insurance Policy with enhanced
risk coverage to all serving Police Officers & other employees of the Andhra
Pradesh Police Department is implemented.

145. For addressing post-retirement concerns of the employees under the

New Pension Scheme, our government has pioneered the implementation of
the AP Guaranteed Pension System, as a more beneficial & sustainable
alternative. By this, Andhra Pradesh, has yet again delivered a solution being
adopted by other states & Government of India

Landmark achievements of the last 5 years

 Andhra Pradesh in 2018-19, ranked 14th in terms of GSDP

growth rate of 11 %. In 2022-23, we are placed at 4th position
with GSDP growth rate 16.2 %.

 Andhra Pradesh is categorised as "Top Achiever" in Ease of Doing

Business under the Business Reform Action Plan for 2020-21.

 Andhra Pradesh in 2018-19, ranked 12th in terms of the

agricultural sector CAGR of 8.3 %. Today, we rank 6th with a
CAGR of 13%.

 Andhra Pradesh is the first and only state to achieve universal

coverage of farmers under the Dr. YSR Free Crop Insurance
scheme.
74
 Andhra Pradesh's RBKs, rendering services to 13.05 lakh farmers,
is lauded by the World Bank. Delegates from Ethiopia, Bangladesh
and Vietnam wish to emulate this concept of "seed to sale" in
their countries.

 Andhra Pradesh stands 2nd in micro irrigation implementation.

In the top 15 districts of the country, 6 districts are from the
State.

 Andhra Pradesh won the Best State Award of ICAR - National

Research Centre for Banana for export promotion. About 1.67
lakh MT of banana have been exported compared to only 387
MTs before 2019.

 Andhra Pradesh leads with 30% share in total fish production

and 31% of total sea food exports & in 2023, awarded the Best
Marine State by Government of India.

 Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati has received

Breed conservation award from ICAR for conserving Punganur
cattle.

 Andhra Pradesh is the only state to provide 50% reservation for

Women SC/ST/BC in the Agricultural Market Committees.

 Andhra Pradesh is ranked 3rd for end-to-end implementation of

National Food Security Act.

 Andhra Pradesh today has a thriving ecosystem for start-ups. New

MSMEs registrations increased from 65,174 in 2020 to 7.2 lakh
in 2023.

 Andhra Pradesh ranks 7th in terms of women owned MSMEs

with a share of 5 % in the country.

75
 Andhra Pradesh, has 27.45 lakh persons employed in MSMEs
under the Udyam Portal in 2023, a massive increase from 1.17
lakh people in 2017.

 Andhra Pradesh is categorised as "Top Achiever" in Ease of Doing

Business under the Business Reform Action Plan for 2020-21.

 Andhra Pradesh received Gold Award for Uppada Jamdani sarees

under One District One Product & four more awards under
handloom products.

 Andhra Pradesh, secured best performance award for PMAY-

Urban Housing & three beneficiaries received Best House
Construction Award from the Hon'ble Prime Minister.

 Industry giants like Microsoft, Jindal, Reliance, Adani, Laurus

Synthesis, TCS, Infosys, Hero Motocorp, Yokohama, Grasim
Industries, Greenko Energy and many more well-known industries
have invested in Andhra Pradesh in the last 4 years.

 Andhra Pradesh, is ranked 3rd most popular tourist destination

in 2022.

 Rushikonda, acquired 'Blue Flag' most environment friendly beach

label.

 Lepakshi awarded as the Best Tourism Village 2023 by the GoI.

 Andhra Pradesh, received three awards on 15th Enertia Award-

2023 for promoting SDGs through clean & green renewable
energy, meeting Renewable Power Purchase Obligations, & top
State utility for energy and infrastructure.

 Our government supported the National Academy of Customs,

Indirect Taxes, & Narcotics (NACIN) in establishing its state-of-

76
 the-art campus in Palasamudram. Spanning 500 acres, this apex
institution specialises in capacity building of Indian Revenue
Service officers and allied services from both Centre and States,
as well as partner nations.

 Ministry of Panchayati Raj, GoI in collaboration with State

Gover nment organised a 3-day National Workshop on
Localization of Sustainable Development Goals in Gram
Panchayats through Adopting Thematic Approaches - Healthy
Village, in January 2024 at Tirupati.

 Facilitated the Defence Electronics and Semiconductor

Innovations Conclaves in partnership with the India Electronics
and Semiconductor Association in February 2023 at Tirupati.

Centre State Relations - Resolution of State Bifurcation Issues

146. The state suffered a grievous wound in 2014. However, the previous
government did not take any substantive measures to amicably resolve the issues
or to get rightful entitlements of the State when time was appropriate. Our
government inherited a legacy of unresolved issues and antagonistic ties with
our neighbour. Nevertheless, over last five years, we relentlessly fought for our
rights. We succeeded in releasing of Rs. 10,460 crore Revenue Deficit Grant of
2014-15 by the Government of India. We obtained directions from the
Government of India to the State of Telangana to pay the power dues of Rs.
6,756 crore to Andhra Pradesh. We resolved the pending issues between Andhra
Pradesh and Telangana pertaining to AP Civil Supplies Corporation. We obtained
pending instalments of Backward district grants of Rs.1,050 crore. We convinced
the 15th Finance Commission to award higher revenue deficit grant of Rs.
30,497 crore to AP; also convinced the GoI to sanction the revised project cost
for Polavaram Project. Thanks to our efforts & cooperation of GoI, all other
issues too are at very advanced stages of resolution.

77
Allocation for 2024-25

Accounts 2022-23

147. The finance accounts finalized by the Accountant General of Andhra

Pradesh show a revenue deficit of Rs.44,487.49 crore, and a fiscal deficit of
Rs.52,508.34 crore, which was 3.30 % and 3.98% of the GSDP respectively,
for FY 2022-23.

Revised Estimates 2023-24

148. The revised estimate for revenue expenditure for FY 2023-24 is

Rs.2,28,237.77 crore, whereas for capital expenditure it is Rs.27,308.12 crore.
The revenue deficit for 2023-24 is around Rs.31,534.94 crore, whereas the fiscal
deficit for the same period is around Rs. 60,153.59 crore, which amounts to
2.19 % and 4.18 % of the GSDP respectively.

Budget Estimates 2024-25

149. For the financial year 2024-25, I propose an expenditure of

Rs.2,86,389.27 crore, with revenue expenditure estimated at Rs.2,30,110.41
crore, and capital expenditure Rs. 30,530.18 crore. The estimated revenue deficit
is around Rs.24,758.22 crore and the fiscal deficit is estimated at around
Rs.55,817.50 crore. The fiscal deficit will be around 3.51 % of the GSDP, whereas
the revenue deficit will be around 1.56 % of the GSDP.

Conclusion

"The most reliable way to predict the future is to create it."

- Abraham Lincoln

150. Under the Hon'ble Chief Minister's dynamic leadership, the novel growth
& welfare-oriented governance paradigm of our government, in last five years,
has ushered economic development, infrastructure creation & prosperity in
Andhra Pradesh. The programs, policies, and systems have created the ecosystem

78
to enable and empower the people of Andhra Pradesh to script their success
story. What lies ahead of us is a big, bold, bright future for Andhra Pradesh.

I would like to quote the inspirational words of Swami Vivekananda,

"We are responsible for what we are,
and whatever we wish ourselves to be,
we have the power to make ourselves.
If what we are now has been the result of
our own past actions,
it certainly follows that whatever we wish
to be in the future can be produced by our present actions;
so we have to know how to act."

With these words, I now commend the budget to the august House for
approval.

Jai Andhra Pradesh

Jai Hind

***

79