Modi launches Rs 58,000-crore projects in Amaravati, eyes ‘Swarna Andhra’

Andhra Pradesh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated, laid foundation stones, and dedicated development projects worth over Rs 58,000 crore in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to transform the capital into a symbol of progress and a hub for technology, infrastructure, and national pride.

A vision for ‘Swarna Andhra’

Standing on the “sacred land of Amaravati,” Prime Minister Modi described the city not just as a geographic location but as a powerful dream—where ancient tradition meets modern aspiration. “Amaravati is a force that will transform Andhra Pradesh into a developed and advanced state,” he said, addressing a massive gathering.

He added that Amaravati symbolizes the fusion of Buddhist peace and India’s developmental energy, and emphasized that the projects initiated are more than structures—they are foundations of Andhra’s aspirations and India’s progress.

Support for state government and leadership

Modi extended greetings to the people and leaders of Andhra Pradesh, including Chief Minister Nare Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, praising their commitment to development. He commended Naidu’s vision for future technology and noted that the Centre has consistently supported Amaravati’s growth since the foundation stone was laid in 2015.

The Prime Minister announced that the construction of key state institutions—such as the High Court, Assembly, Secretariat, and Raj Bhavan—would now be prioritized.

Infrastructure projects to accelerate growth

Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation for a wide range of infrastructure initiatives, including:

7 National Highway Projects to improve regional connectivity, road safety, and tourism access.

Railway Projects like the doubling of the Bugganapalle–Panyam line and a third line between Vijayawada and New West Block Hut Cabin.

Six NH Projects and a Rail-Over-Rail Link to ease congestion at Guntakal Junction.

Capital City Infrastructure: Rs 11,240 crore for government complexes and housing, Rs 17,400 crore for flood mitigation and transport, and Rs 20,400 crore for trunk infrastructure under the Land Pooling Scheme.

Boost to railways and connectivity

Highlighting railway modernization, Modi noted a tenfold increase in the railway budget for Andhra—from less than Rs 900 crore (2009–14) to over Rs 9,000 crore today. The state now has:

100% railway electrification
8 pairs of Vande Bharat trains
Amrit Bharat trains
70 stations being modernized under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme
Over 750 flyovers and underpasses constructed in a decade

Strengthening the rural economy and agriculture

Modi reiterated that the pillars of development are the poor, farmers, youth, and women. Key highlights include:

Rs 12 lakh crore spent nationally on fertilizer subsidies in 10 years
Rs 5,500 crore in crop insurance claims under PM Fasal Bima Yojana
Rs 17,500 crore transferred to AP farmers under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi
Revived momentum for Polavaram Project, promising water security for millions

Youth, employment, and industry development

The PM highlighted that large-scale infrastructure projects are fueling the manufacturing sector and generating jobs. Thousands of Andhra’s youth, he said, are benefitting from employment opportunities tied to steel, cement, and transportation sectors.

Amaravati, he envisioned, will soon emerge as a national hub for information technology, artificial intelligence, green energy, education and healthcare.

Strengthening defence and space capabilities

Modi announced the DRDO Missile Testing Range in Nagayalanka at a cost of Rs 1,460 crore. It will include a launch center, radars, and telemetry systems, enhancing India’s defense readiness. The PM linked the project to spiritual strength, saying it draws power from Maa Durga.

He also reiterated Sriharikota’s prideful place in India’s space missions, calling Andhra Pradesh a vital contributor to the nation’s space journey.

Cultural integration and unity initiatives

Modi unveiled plans for a PM Ekta Mall in Visakhapatnam to promote indigenous crafts, national integration, and local employment through the “One District One Product” initiative. He linked this to the broader vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”

Upcoming International Yoga Day in Andhra Pradesh

Marking the 10th edition of International Day of Yoga, Modi announced that the state would host the national celebration on June 21. He urged citizens to undertake yoga initiatives over the next 50 days and aim for a world record.

Shared commitment to development

Reaffirming his support to Andhra Pradesh, the PM declared that “India’s strength lies in its unity, not just in its weaponry.” He emphasized the government’s commitment to walk “shoulder to shoulder” with the people of Andhra as the state accelerates toward a bright future.