After years of drift, AP economy back on growth track: Governor

Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Governor Justice (retd) S. Abdul Nazeer on Wednesday said the change in political regime in 2019 had derailed the momentum of development achieved in the years following bifurcation, even as he asserted that the State is now witnessing a phase of economic recovery and renewed confidence.

Addressing the joint session of the Andhra Pradesh Legislature, convened for the presentation of the Budget on February 14, the Governor said the State has undergone significant transitions since its bifurcation in 2014.

“The government that assumed office in 2014 was confronted with unprecedented challenges, including State reorganisation, division of assets, loss of urban conglomeration and the capital city, infrastructure deficits, and an agriculture-dominant economic base. Despite limited resources, concerted efforts were made to stabilise finances, improve connectivity, rebuild institutions, and lay the groundwork for long-term development,” he said.

However, the Governor observed that the change in governance in 2019 disrupted this momentum. “Systemic governance failures emerged, growth stalled, financial stress intensified, institutions were weakened, there was a breakdown of law and order, arbitrary restrictions were imposed through misuse of Section 22A, and key sectors such as infrastructure, power and irrigation suffered serious setbacks,” he stated.

In an oblique reference to the return of the TDP to power along with its allies, the Governor said the people of AP, disenchanted by these experiences, reposed their faith once again in his government in 2024, granting it an unprecedented mandate to rebuild the State.

He said the decisive verdict in favour of the NDA government reflects the people’s deep trust in the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, the committed partnership of Deputy Chief Minister Pavan Kalyan, and the continued guidance and support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.