Why Were Republic Day Celebrations Held for the First Time in Amaravati?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Amaravati, Jan 26 (NationPress) In a historic event, Republic Day celebrations took place for the very first time in the Andhra Pradesh capital, Amaravati. The national flag was unfurled by Governor S. Abdul Nazeer during the main official ceremony, commemorating the 77th Republic Day.
Among the guests were Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, various ministers, judges from the High Court, and farmers who contributed their lands for the capital city's development.
The celebrations, held near the High Court, featured a salute taken by the Governor from 11 contingents including the Indian Army, AP Special Police, CRPF, Kerala Armed Police, NCC, Bharat Scouts and Guides, and the Youth Red Cross.
Additionally, 22 tableaux were exhibited, showcasing the state government's numerous development and welfare initiatives. Key themes included Zero Poverty, Population Management, Skilling and Employment, Water Security, Farmer-Agri Tech, Global-Best Logistics, Cost Optimisation in Energy, Product Perfection, Swachh Andhra, and Deep Tech.
Since the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014, Republic Day celebrations had previously been held in Vijayawada, where the Governor’s official residence is located.
This year’s events occurred amidst active development efforts for Amaravati, with a Bill anticipated to be introduced in the upcoming Budget session of Parliament to grant statutory status to Amaravati as Andhra Pradesh's permanent capital.
The TDP-led NDA government resumed capital development activities last year after a five-year period of uncertainty caused by the former YSR Congress Party's proposal for three state capitals.
CM Chandrababu Naidu, who initiated the Amaravati project during his previous term as Chief Minister (2014-19), has revitalized these efforts following the TDP-led NDA's return to power.
During a recent meeting of the TDP Parliamentary Party, the Chief Minister announced that construction activities in Amaravati have been expedited and that the second phase of development will soon commence.