Thu Mar 06 23:11:00 UTC 2025: ## Sitharaman Assures Continued Support for Andhra Pradesh Projects

**Visakhapatnam, March 7, 2025** – Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to Andhra Pradesh’s key projects during a press conference in Visakhapatnam yesterday. She stated that the government has already exceeded expectations in its support for the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP), despite union demands for a year-long tax holiday. While acknowledging the demands, she indicated they would be reviewed.

Sitharaman highlighted the ₹11,000 crore allocation for VSP revival, emphasizing the need to increase its capacity by fully utilizing its three furnaces. She further pledged central support for Andhra Pradesh’s Amaravati capital city project, assisting the state in securing loans from the World Bank and Asian Development Bank. Regarding the delayed Polavaram project and its escalating costs, the Minister confirmed the Centre’s commitment to completion, while noting that technical issues would be addressed during fund releases.

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