Will Andhra CM secure Rs 10,000 crore from Centre under SASCI scheme?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Andhra Pradesh CM requests Rs 10,000 crore for 2025-26 under SASCI.
- Financial strain due to state bifurcation continues to affect development.
- Meeting with the Union Finance Minister focused on urgent financial needs.
- Amaravati construction requires additional funding.
- State government is mobilizing resources for various projects.
Amaravati, July 16 (NationPress) - The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, has formally requested the Central Government to allocate an extra Rs 10,000 crore to the state for the fiscal year 2025-26 under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme.
This appeal was made during a meeting with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Delhi on Wednesday.
In a follow-up to his national capital visit, Naidu met with FM Sitharaman and presented a memorandum requesting financial support from the Centre for several projects, as stated by the Chief Minister’s Office.
Naidu, whose party, Telugu Desam Party (TDP), plays a crucial role in the NDA government, urged the Finance Minister to consider the state government’s earlier request to the 16th Finance Commission to address the revenue deficit.
He conveyed that Andhra Pradesh continues to struggle with financial resource deficits stemming from the state’s bifurcation.
Furthermore, Naidu sought the Centre's approval for the second tranche of funds designated for the development of Amaravati as grants.
He highlighted that a total of Rs 79,280 crore is needed for the construction of Amaravati, with Rs 44,351 crore already invested in the project.
The Chief Minister reported that Rs 26,000 crore has been mobilized for these developments.
He reiterated the ongoing necessity for funds for the capital's construction.
Naidu expressed gratitude to the Centre for its support in the construction of Amaravati and the Polavaram project.
Earlier on Tuesday, Naidu had met Union Home Minister Amit Shah to request additional assistance, noting the persistent financial scarcity facing the state.
While he thanked the Centre for its timely support during the past year's challenges, Naidu emphasized the need to revive the struggling economy with the Centre's help.
He underscored the critical requirement for further financial backing from the Centre.
During his discussions with the Home Minister, Naidu outlined the financial needs for various projects and development initiatives across the state.