Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Andhra Pradesh on May 2, where he will formally re-launch the development works of Amaravati, the long-pending capital project that had been shelved after a change in the state’s political leadership in 2019. The announcement has stirred political and public excitement, especially among those who have long demanded the revival of Amaravati as the sole capital of Andhra Pradesh.
The visit is expected to include groundbreaking ceremonies, unveiling of key infrastructure plans, and public engagements. This marks a significant political and administrative move ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in the state.
Reigniting Amaravati’s Vision
Amaravati was envisioned as a world-class greenfield capital after the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014, when Telangana was carved out and Hyderabad became its capital. Then-Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu led the initial stages of Amaravati’s planning, including land pooling from farmers, and ambitious urban layouts inspired by international standards.
However, after Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy came to power in 2019, the project was halted, with the new government proposing a three-capital model—Amaravati (legislative), Visakhapatnam (executive), and Kurnool (judicial). This decision led to massive protests, especially from farmers in the Amaravati region who had given up land under the promise of capital development.
Now, with PM Modi stepping in to re-inaugurate works in Amaravati, the political winds seem to be shifting again in favour of reviving the original capital project.
What to Expect from PM’s Visit
According to sources from the Prime Minister’s Office and BJP state unit, the May 2 visit will feature:
- Laying the foundation stone for a number of infrastructure works including the Assembly complex, High Court, Secretariat, and key roadways.
- Public address in Amaravati, likely targeting voters with a vision of economic development and restoring the state’s capital aspirations.
- Meetings with local leaders and a review of central projects in the region.
Modi’s visit is not only a boost for Amaravati but also a strategic move in the context of coalition dynamics. The BJP is likely to strengthen its alliance with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) ahead of the elections, and Amaravati’s revival is a core issue for TDP and its supporters.
Political Reactions
The announcement of PM Modi’s visit has triggered a wave of political reactions across Andhra Pradesh. TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu welcomed the move and praised the Centre’s commitment to Amaravati.
“For five years, our vision for a global capital was stalled and betrayed. Now, with PM Modi’s support, Amaravati’s dream will rise again,” Naidu said in a statement.
On the other hand, the ruling YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has maintained a cautious stance. While they have not directly opposed the PM’s visit, party insiders suggest they will continue to defend the decentralization model, arguing it promotes balanced regional development.
Political observers believe the move could significantly impact voter sentiment in the region, especially in the capital area where the BJP-TDP alliance hopes to regain lost ground.
Symbolism and Strategy
PM Modi’s visit holds symbolic importance. Amaravati, once hailed as a futuristic capital with support from countries like Singapore and institutions like the World Bank, was left in limbo. Modi’s re-inauguration could re-energize not only the physical development but also investor confidence and public morale.
Moreover, the timing of the visit just ahead of the elections hints at a broader electoral strategy by the BJP-led NDA alliance—to highlight the alleged failures of the YSRCP and promise a revival of stalled infrastructure, creating a contrast in governance styles.