Telangana CM Meets PM Modi, Seeks Financial Support
Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Wednesday to request financial and infrastructural support for the state. However, in an unusual move, Modi handed Reddy a letter asking the state to clear pending matching grants for centrally sponsored schemes since 2017.
During the 30-minute meeting, Reddy explained Telangana’s financial difficulties and sought assistance for key projects. These included Metro Rail Phase-2, the Regional Ring Road (RRR) – Southern Part, a Regional Ring Rail, a Dry Port, and the India Semiconductor Mission. He also requested 29 additional IPS officer posts to tackle rising cybercrime and drug trafficking.
Reddy highlighted that the previous BRS government had not expanded the metro. He emphasized the urgent need for Phase-2, which would cover 76.4 km with five corridors at an estimated cost of ₹24,269 crore. He urged Modi to approve the project as soon as possible.
Regarding the Regional Ring Road (RRR), Reddy pointed out that 90% of land acquisition for the Northern Part was completed. However, the full benefits of the project could only be realized if both sections were completed together. The Telangana government was willing to bear 50% of the land cost for the Southern Part.
He also proposed building a Regional Ring Rail alongside the RRR to improve railway connectivity in the state.
To enhance Telangana’s trade opportunities, Reddy sought approval for a Dry Port near the RRR. He also requested a Greenfield Road and a rail link to connect the Dry Port to a seaport.
Additionally, Reddy discussed the Musi Rejuvenation Project, highlighting its cultural and spiritual importance. He requested ₹20,000 crore in central assistance for the project. He also urged Modi to approve the transfer of 222.7 acres of defence land for the Gandhi Sarovar project.
The meeting between Reddy and Modi focused on Telangana’s development needs, while the Centre also pressed the state to fulfill its pending financial commitments.
