Naidu Pushes For Amaravati’s Statutory Capital Status in High-Level Meeting With Amit Shah

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on January 8, 2026, where he pressed for the grant of statutory status to Amaravati as the state's capital through a dedicated bill in Parliament. The request was made to ensure long-term policy certainty, accelerate infrastructure development, and boost investor confidence in the ambitious capital project. Naidu emphasized that formal legislative recognition would fulfill the aspirations of the people of Andhra Pradesh and provide the necessary stability for sustained growth.

The discussion followed Naidu's recent visit to the Polavaram multipurpose irrigation project, a key initiative for the state. During the meeting, both leaders reviewed ongoing development projects, welfare schemes, and other critical matters related to Andhra Pradesh's progress. Naidu highlighted the importance of Amaravati's statutory status in removing uncertainties that have slowed progress since the project's inception in 2014, particularly after previous state governments proposed alternative capital concepts.

The Chief Minister also raised concerns over the financial implications of the recently introduced VB-G-RAM-G scheme, pointing out that the revised 60:40 Centre-State funding ratio was imposing an additional burden on Andhra Pradesh amid its ongoing fiscal challenges. He sought alternative financial support and greater flexibility in implementation to ensure the scheme's effective rollout without straining state resources. Naidu acknowledged the Centre's assistance in helping the state recover from financial difficulties and appealed for continued cooperation.

Also Read: Three-Day ONGC Mori-5 Well Fire Contained; 500+ Residents Return to Homes

The meeting underscored the NDA government's focus on strengthening Andhra Pradesh's development trajectory following the formation of the current state administration. Amaravati, envisioned as a world-class, sustainable capital city on the banks of the Krishna River, has been a flagship project for Naidu's Telugu Desam Party. Granting it statutory status would reinforce its legal standing and protect it from potential policy reversals, aligning with Naidu's vision for a modern, investor-friendly capital.

In related developments, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to inaugurate the National IED Data Management System (NIDMS) later this week. Developed by the National Security Guard, the secure digital platform aims to centralize data on Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), facilitating real-time sharing among police, CAPFs, and central agencies to enhance post-blast investigations, pattern recognition, and overall counter-IED preparedness across the country. The discussions between Naidu and Shah reflect the Centre's broader engagement with state priorities alongside national security advancements.

Also Read: Raj Thackeray Targets BJP, Claims Civic Body Control Threatens Power Of Marathi Residents