Vijayawada: Chief minister Chandrababu Naidu asserted that the NDA govt is spending twice as much on welfare compared to the previous YSRCP regime, while also accelerating development across the state. Launching the month-long outreach campaign titled “First Step in Good Governance” at Kuppam on Wednesday, Naidu said the initiative aims to connect with every household in Andhra Pradesh and highlight the government’s achievements over the past year.All MLAs have been directed to visit their constituencies and explain the various welfare and development programmes implemented by the NDA govtt. While Naidu began a two-day tour of his Kuppam constituency, his son and minister Nara Lokesh launched the campaign in Mangalagiri. Ministers and legislators across the state kicked off the programme in their respective regions.During his Kuppam visit, Naidu inaugurated development projects worth 1,293 crore and signed MoUs with four companies for skill development initiatives involving an investment of 1,617 crore. He also unveiled Vision Swarna Kuppam – 2029, outlining a roadmap for transforming the constituency he has represented for nine consecutive terms.Addressing a public meeting in Shantipuram, Naidu said Andhra Pradesh is recovering from the “destruction” caused by the previous government. He announced that the Handri-Neeva project would be completed within a year, with 3,890 crore allocated to ensure irrigation for every acre of farmland.Naidu also announced plans to promote “Brand Kuppam” by improving market access for local products. He revealed that an airport would soon be built in Kuppam with an investment of 850 crore. Appealing to locals not to oppose land acquisition, he promised fair compensation on par with Amaravati farmers.He urged residents to take advantage of the PM Surya Ghar scheme by installing solar panels to reduce electricity costs. Naidu also highlighted plans to modernise the railway station and improve road connectivity.Criticising the YSRCP, Naidu said only those who can deliver development have the right to speak about welfare. He argued that borrowing for welfare while ignoring development is not good governance. “To spend on welfare, wealth must be created first—and that’s what the NDA govt is doing,” he said.Naidu also distributed pensions to new beneficiaries, tricycles to differently-abled persons, and e-cycles to 400 DWACRA women. He visited households in Timmarajupalle to interact with beneficiaries and understand their concerns.
