Proposals for solar equity, river-linking & space innovation

 metro india news  I amaravati

In a day packed with strategic consultations, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu undertook a series of high-level meetings in New Delhi on Friday, presenting a sweeping development agenda that blends renewable energy access, water resource management, and national defence and space ambitions.

The Chief Minister’s outreach underscores his government’s intent to reposition Andhra Pradesh as a national leader in sustainability, infrastructure, and innovation. Across major ministries, Naidu put forward detailed proposals, emphasizing both regional upliftment and alignment with national priorities like Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Green India.

In a crucial meeting with Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Prahlad Joshi, CM Naidu urged expedited approval for a pending proposal under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. The plan, initially submitted by Andhra Pradesh DISCOMs in January 2025, seeks rooftop solar installations for 20 lakh SC/ST households and a Rs.10,000/kWp subsidy for BC households installing up to 2 kWp systems.

“This is not just about solar panels; it’s about empowerment,” said Naidu after the meeting. “With the Centre’s support, Andhra Pradesh can pioneer inclusive renewable energy adoption in the country.”

The initiative is part of the state's broader Clean Energy Policy 2024–29, which targets an additional 72.6 GW of renewable energy, including 40 GW of solar power. Officials say the utility-led rooftop model will lower electricity purchase costs, enhance energy access for disadvantaged communities, and create a ripple effect of employment and innovation across the state.

In a separate meeting with Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil, Naidu submitted a comprehensive plan for the Polavaram–Banakacherla Link Project—a critical step to redirect surplus Godavari floodwaters to drought-prone regions of south-central Andhra Pradesh.

The project, which involves the construction of the Gollapalli reservoir, lift irrigation systems, and tunnels through the Nallamala hills, is expected to enhance water security across several districts. Naidu emphasized Andhra Pradesh’s downstream rights post-bifurcation and positioned the plan as essential for implementing national initiatives like Jal Jeevan Mission and the Blue Revolution.

 Furthermore, CM Naidu met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to discuss central financing for the Polavaram–Banakacherla project. A detailed financial model was presented, backed by socio-economic impact studies and earlier consultations with the Ministry.

Later in the day, the CM met Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to unveil Andhra Pradesh’s ambitious roadmap to become a leading hub for defence and aerospace innovation. The strategy involves developing integrated defence manufacturing zones, reviving dormant industrial units, and establishing new testing and training centres to support indigenous aviation and military production.

Naidu highlighted the state's existing infrastructure, including seaports, industrial corridors, and a skilled talent pool, as unique assets in the national push for self-reliant defence production.  The Chief Minister also met Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, to submit a visionary plan to establish Andhra Pradesh as a key node in India’s space manufacturing ecosystem.

The proposal includes developing two ‘Space Cities’—one near ISRO’s Sriharikota spaceport and another near Lepakshi—to support satellite production, launch vehicle development, and industry-academic collaborations. Naidu also formally introduced Dr. S. Somanath, former ISRO Chairman, as Andhra Pradesh’s Honorary Adviser on Space Technology. “With Dr. Somanath’s guidance and Centre’s support, we aim to position AP as the Silicon Valley of India’s space sector,” Naidu stated.

CM Chandrababu Naidu’s Delhi visit marks a renewed push for federal cooperation on high-impact projects. By targeting ministries central to energy, water, defence, and space, Naidu is seeking to carve a forward-facing identity for Andhra Pradesh—one rooted in equity, innovation, and national relevance.  With proposals now in the hands of the Union Government, all eyes are on the Centre’s response—and how soon Andhra Pradesh’s ambitions will translate into action.