Buggana criticizes Union Budget for ignoring Andhra Pradesh’s key projects

Tadepalli – Andhra Pradesh: Senior YSRCP leader and former minister Buggana Rajendranath Reddy has criticized the Union Budget 2025, stating that Andhra Pradesh was completely ignored in the budget speech delivered by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. He expressed disappointment over the lack of new projects and special allocations for the state.

Failure to prioritize AP’s key demands

Buggana pointed out that crucial projects such as Amaravati, the Railway Zone, Metro Rail, and the Vizag Steel Plant were not given any priority. He blamed the state government for failing to secure necessary funds, despite the ruling party’s claim of holding influence over the Centre.

Comparison with Bihar’s special allocations

Highlighting the repeated mentions of Bihar in the budget, Buggana noted that the central government allocated funds for various projects, including the modernization of IIT Patna, a new airport, and special institutes. In contrast, he argued that Andhra Pradesh was overlooked, exposing what he called a clear bias in fund distribution.

Medical college development stalled

Buggana credited the previous YSRCP government for bringing major reforms in the medical sector, including the establishment of 17 new medical colleges, which added 2,550 medical seats to the state. He alleged that the current state government has weakened these initiatives, refusing additional medical seats from the Centre and moving towards privatizing medical institutions.

Setback for digital learning in schools

According to Buggana, the central government’s digital education initiatives, including AI-driven classrooms in 50,000 schools, were originally introduced under the previous government. He accused the current administration of neglecting these reforms, stating that it has jeopardized students’ futures and hindered Andhra Pradesh’s progress.

Coalition government pushing AP backward

Buggana concluded that the failure to secure special allocations in the budget reflects the ruling state government’s inability to influence national policy decisions. He claimed that under the coalition government, Andhra Pradesh is being pushed backward rather than advancing towards development.