Live: Sajjala Ramakrishna’s Reddy Press Meet

Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy, advisor to the state government, addressed the opposition’s criticisms through a press conference. He refuted claims that there had been zero development in Andhra Pradesh over the past five years and that the state had accrued significant debt.

He highlighted several instances of substantial progress achieved during the last four-and-a-half months, including the establishment of heavy industries such as Pioneer Aluminium, Apollo Tyres, Grasim Industries, and Gayatri, all with investments exceeding Rs 1,000 crore. Additionally, significant infrastructural projects like the Bhogapuram International Airport, Kurnool Airport, 17 medical colleges, 10 fishing harbours, and 6 fish landing centers have been initiated under the government’s tenure.

Sajjala posed a rhetorical question, asking whether these accomplishments could be dismissed as non-developmental. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, stressing that despite its impact, the government remained active and responsive.

He lauded the efforts of volunteers, secretariat staff, medical personnel, and field workers during the pandemic, emphasizing their crucial role in delivering essential services. Reddy asserted that the government had served all citizens impartially, irrespective of their socioeconomic status, and invited scrutiny of the government’s beneficiaries’ list kept in secretariats.

Sajjala also criticized the previous administration for the collapse of Dwakra unions and unfulfilled promises regarding loan waivers and zero-interest schemes. He highlighted the government’s efforts to rejuvenate self-help groups (SHGs), reducing insolvency rates significantly since coming to power.

Under the current administration, the number of SHG members, particularly women, has surged, leading to increased income and timely repayment of loans. He emphasized the government’s focus on promoting self-employment among women, citing initiatives like the Cheyutha scheme, which provides financial support to over 16 lakh self-employed individuals.