In a landmark moment for Andhra Pradesh, the 77th Republic Day celebrations were held for the first time in the capital city of Amaravati, marking a historic chapter in the state’s democratic journey. The grand celebrations took place at a specially developed parade ground near the High Court complex, reflecting the government’s renewed commitment to the capital and its future.

Governor Justice S. Abdul Nazeer unfurled the National Flag and took the ceremonial salute, accompanied by a full-dress parade by various security forces. Contingents from the Indian Army, CRPF, Kurnool APSP Second Battalion, Kerala State Police, Visakhapatnam APSP 16th Battalion, NCC (Boys and Girls), AP Social Welfare Residential Schools, Bharat Scouts and Guides, and Youth Red Cross participated in the parade. The Indian Army contingent secured first place in the parade competition, followed by APSP 16th Battalion in second position, while the Kerala Police contingent received the consolation prize.

Addressing the people of Andhra Pradesh, Governor Abdul Nazeer said the state government is advancing on a clear development path through its Ten Principles Governance Framework, ensuring that growth and welfare progress simultaneously.

He said social security pensions have been accorded top priority, benefiting over 6.3 million eligible citizens. Under the ‘Deepam’ scheme, free LPG cylinders are being provided to poor women, significantly reducing household expenses.

The Governor said employment generation remains a core focus, with the government working towards a target of 20 lakh jobs. Water security has been identified as a strategic priority, with accelerated works on Polavaram and other irrigation projects. He also highlighted farmer-centric initiatives such as ‘Polam Pilustondi’ and ‘Rythanna Mee Kosam’, which aim to deliver direct support to the agricultural community.

In the infrastructure sector, the government is strengthening road, rail and inland water transport networks while correcting lapses of the previous administration. He said Amaravati’s development is progressing in parallel with efforts to transform Visakhapatnam into a major economic zone.

The Governor further noted that the implementation of true-down power charges has eased the burden on electricity consumers. He outlined reforms in MSME promotion, plug-and-play industrial policy, Tourism Policy 2024-29, Swachh Andhra-Swarna Andhra, the Amaravati Quantum Valley, and expanded use of artificial intelligence. He added that metro rail projects for Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada are under active consideration as part of long-term urban planning. Reaffirming the state’s long-term vision, the Governor said Andhra Pradesh is moving forward with the ‘Swarna Andhra 2047’ roadmap, aligning development with national aspirations.

A major attraction of the celebrations was the display of 22 elaborately designed tableaux by various government departments, portraying development initiatives, welfare schemes, cultural heritage and technological advancement.

The tableau themed “Vande Mataram - 150 Years” by the Cultural Department won first prize, followed by the SERP women empowerment tableau in second place and the Industries Department tableau on employment through investments in third place. Other tableaux highlighted water security, agriculture technology, renewable energy, handlooms, RTGS governance, Swachh Andhra, urban development and digital transformation, drawing widespread appreciation from spectators.

Reacting to the historic celebrations, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu described the first-ever Republic Day event in Amaravati as a moment of pride for every citizen of Andhra Pradesh. He said hoisting the Tricolour in the people’s capital was deeply emotional and symbolic. “The Governor’s address clearly outlined the government’s agenda and future roadmap. The parade and tableaux reflected our collective aspirations and vision,” the Chief Minister said in a statement, thanking Governor Abdul Nazeer for his inspiring message.

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan termed the celebrations “magnificent and forward-looking.” He said the 22 tableaux beautifully captured the state’s progress and development priorities. Praising the Governor’s speech, Pawan Kalyan said it offered clear direction for Andhra Pradesh’s future and reaffirmed the coalition government’s commitment to democratic values and people-centric governance.

The first Republic Day celebrations in Amaravati concluded on a high note, symbolising unity, constitutional spirit and a renewed resolve to build a prosperous, inclusive and globally competitive Andhra Pradesh.