Tue Feb 18 19:59:41 UTC 2025: ## Union Minister Lauds Budget’s Benefits for Andhra Pradesh

**Guntur, Andhra Pradesh –** Union Minister for Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu on Tuesday praised the Union Budget, calling it a strong foundation for Andhra Pradesh’s economic development. Speaking at a BJP press conference in Guntur, Naidu, a TDP leader, highlighted the budget’s focus on welfare and growth, stating it aligns with the aspirations of all Indians, prioritizing farmers, youth, women, and small businesses.

Naidu emphasized the increased central budgetary allocation to Andhra Pradesh, contrasting it with what he described as past neglect. He specifically cited ₹15,000 crore allocated for the Polavaram project and an additional ₹15,000 crore earmarked for Amaravati’s development, facilitated by the Housing and Urban Development Corporation Limited. He criticized the previous YSRCP government’s handling of central schemes like the Jal Jeevan Mission, claiming a ₹15,000-crore loss for the state, although the project has been extended for another year.

Further benefits for Andhra Pradesh mentioned included ₹10,400 crore for the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant’s revival, preventing privatization, and the commencement of work on the Visakhapatnam Railway Zone. The extension of the UDAN scheme, aiming for 120 new airports nationwide, was also highlighted as beneficial to the state’s aviation sector. Naidu also celebrated the new income tax exemption up to ₹12 lakh, benefiting over 1 crore salaried individuals, despite the revenue loss to the Centre.

Naidu concluded by emphasizing India’s growing global economic stature, attributing it to Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. Several BJP and allied leaders attended the press conference.

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