Article 2: Balance is key
Why in news: Parliament’s recognition of Amaravati as Andhra Pradesh’s capital revives a long-delayed project, highlighting political victory, renewed Centre support, and concerns over regional imbalance, funding gaps, and social equity.
Key Details
- Amaravati declared capital, boosting N. Chandrababu Naidu politically
- Land Pooling Scheme benefited landowners more than labourers
- Project faced delays under Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy’s three-capital proposal
- Centre support mainly via loans, not direct funding
- Concerns over regional imbalance and social inequality
Political Milestone: Amaravati as Capital
- Parliament’s approval recognising Amaravati as Andhra Pradesh’s capital marks a major political win for N. Chandrababu Naidu
- The project, launched in 2015, aimed to build a world-class capital city comparable to Hyderabad
- However, it has remained controversial and delayed since inception
Land Acquisition and Social Concerns
- Around 217 sq. km of fertile land near the Krishna river was pooled for the project
- Implemented through the Land Pooling Scheme (LPS), seen by critics as bypassing the 2013 land acquisition law
- Landowners benefited (annuities + developed plots), but:
- Agricultural labourers received minimal support (₹2,500/month initially)
- Concerns of regional imbalance (neglect of Rayalaseema & north coastal Andhra) fueled opposition
Political and Financial Challenges
- Expected strong central financial support did not materialise despite TDP–BJP alliance
- Demand for Special Category Status became a major political issue
- Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and the YSRCP capitalised on this in the 2019 elections
Policy Shift and Project Disruptions
- The YSRCP government halted Amaravati development and proposed a three-capital model
- This move faced legal and political hurdles, delaying progress further
- By 2024, with Naidu’s return, Amaravati was revived with renewed momentum
Current Concerns and Way Forward
- Central support is largely through loans from global institutions, with limited direct funding
- Significant public resources have been wasted due to delays and political shifts
- Key priorities ahead:
- Ensure balanced regional development
- Protect interests of agricultural labourers, not just landowners
- Avoid political instability affecting long-term infrastructure projects
Conclusion
The revival of Amaravati offers an opportunity to complete a long-pending capital project, but it must be pursued with balanced development. Ensuring equitable benefits for agricultural labourers, addressing regional disparities, and maintaining policy consistency are crucial. Sustainable funding and reduced political disruptions will determine whether Amaravati becomes a symbol of progress or a reminder of policy uncertainty and missed opportunities.