Naidu Seeks Centre’s Backing for Solar, Defence Push
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is actively seeking the support of the central government to push forward key initiatives in renewable energy, defence manufacturing, and water security. During his recent visit to New Delhi, Naidu met Union ministers to present a comprehensive development vision aligning with the state’s Swarna Andhra 2047 plan.
Andhra Pradesh Renewable Energy Push
In his meeting with Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Prahlad Joshi, Naidu sought swift central assistance for implementing the state’s Clean Energy Policy 2024–29. Andhra Pradesh aims to add 72.6 GW of renewable energy capacity, with 40 GW from solar alone.
Naidu specifically urged the Centre to allocate rooftop solar capacity under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and expedite the approval of DISCOM proposals submitted earlier this year. He has announced an ambitious target of installing 20 lakh rooftop solar units by 2025.
The scheme includes free rooftop solar systems for SC/ST households and a ₹10,000 per kWp subsidy for backward caste families for systems up to 2 kWp. “Had a fruitful meeting… With the Centre’s support, we will reduce energy costs, empower our people, and lead India’s clean energy transition,” Naidu posted on X, underlining the Centre-State collaboration.
Andhra Pradesh Defence Manufacturing Vision
In a separate meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the Chief Minister laid out a strategic roadmap to transform Andhra Pradesh into a defence and aerospace hub. The proposal includes the establishment of thematic defence hubs, DRDO-linked Centres of Excellence, and indigenous aviation manufacturing facilities.
Naidu stressed Andhra’s readiness with robust infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and a supportive policy ecosystem. “We discussed a comprehensive roadmap for Andhra Pradesh to emerge as a cornerstone of India’s defence and aerospace future… Grateful for his encouraging response and assurance of full support,” he noted on X.
This aligns with the Centre’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission and the Defence Corridor strategy, where Andhra Pradesh is positioning itself as a vital contributor to self-reliant defence manufacturing.
Andhra Pradesh Water Security Projects
Meeting with Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil, Naidu proposed the Polavaram-Banakacherla link project to divert surplus Godavari floodwaters to drought-hit Rayalaseema. The plan includes the construction of a Bollapalle reservoir, lift irrigation systems, and tunnels through the Nallamala hills.
“Met Union Jal Shakti Minister Shri @CRPaatil today to discuss effective measures to enhance water security in drought-affected areas… Sought the Centre’s full support to take this forward under our long-term vision for #SwarnaAndhra2047,” Naidu stated on X.
A detailed project report is in the works and Naidu requested timely clearance to begin implementation. The move is part of a broader strategy to ensure equitable water distribution, improve irrigation, and secure drinking water access for parched districts.
