Andhra CM Naidu Seeks Centre’s Backing for Solar, Defence & Water Projects

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu met Union ministers to seek support for key state initiatives, including rooftop solar expansion, a defence manufacturing hub, and the Polavaram-Banakacheria water project. He urged Union Renewable Energy Minister Pralhad Joshi to expedite rooftop solar proposals under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, targeting 20 lakh units by 2025 with subsidies for SC/ST and backward households. In a meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Naidu proposed Andhra as a national defence and aerospace hub with DRDO-linked centres, testing facilities, and thematic hubs. He highlighted the state’s robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and policy readiness to support Aatmanirbhar Bharat. With Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil, Naidu pitched the Polavaram-Banakacheria link to channel surplus Godavari water to drought-prone areas via a three-part transfer system. He emphasized its alignment with national missions and Andhra’s water rights. The Centre’s full support was sought to realize Naidu’s SwarnaAndhra2047 vision.