Amaravati: Andhra Cabinet Clears Major District Reforms
Cabinet Meeting Overview
The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, concluded a crucial meeting approving decisions on 24 agenda items. Ministers Anagani Satya Prasad, Nadendla Manohar, and Satyakumar briefed the media, stating that the resolutions were driven by public representations and administrative needs.
District Reorganization Decision
The Cabinet approved structural changes across the state’s district framework.
Key outcomes include:
- Administrative changes in 17 districts
- Status quo maintained in 9 districts
- All revisions to come into force from January 1
The government said the exercise aims to correct operational issues faced by citizens.
New Markapuram District
The Cabinet cleared the formation of a new Markapuram district by merging:
- Markapuram
- Giddalur
- Kanigiri
- Yerragondapalem
Ministers said this move reflects long standing local demands and will ease access to governance.
Revenue Divisions and Name Changes
Two new revenue divisions, Banaganapalle and Adda Road, were approved. While Annamayya district will retain its name, its headquarters will shift from Rayachoti to Madanapalle.
The Cabinet also approved renaming Penugonda as Vasavi Penugonda, citing historical and cultural significance.
Criticism of Previous Administration
Ministers Nadendla Manohar and Satyakumar alleged that the earlier government undertook district bifurcation without scientific assessment or public consultation. They said the present government is addressing the administrative confusion caused by those decisions.
Development Assurances
Minister Anagani Satya Prasad stated that the Chief Minister assured focused development of Polavaram surrounding areas and Rayachoti, alongside the new administrative arrangements.
Infrastructure and Economic Commitments
Minister Satyakumar reaffirmed that fiscal constraints will not delay promised welfare and infrastructure initiatives.
Key highlights include:
- Investment of nearly Rs 3 lakh crore in infrastructure
- Industrial development in Kopparti and Orvakal
- Construction of a road corridor from Machilipatnam to Hyderabad Future City
He also said the state is receiving full cooperation from the Union government.
Governance and Welfare Decisions
Other Cabinet approvals include:
- Relief measures for beneficiaries who availed social welfare loans
- Installation of smart meters in government offices
- Allocation of land for a new hospital in Visakhapatnam
The government believes these steps will strengthen public service delivery and administrative efficiency.