Telangana Chief Minister, A. Revanth Reddy, shared his vision for the state’s future during the Indian Express’ ADDA program. Speaking with Anant Goenka, Executive Director of the Indian Express, and Liz Matthews, Deputy Editor, Reddy talked about Telangana’s growth plans, key projects, and the political environment in India.
Reddy emphasized the importance of balancing development and welfare. He explained that his administration is focused on promoting both economic growth and social welfare. He mentioned several ambitious projects, such as the Future City, Regional Ring Road, and Musi River rejuvenation, which are part of the state’s infrastructure development plan.
The Chief Minister also introduced the slogan “Rising Telangana” to represent the state’s dynamic growth. He highlighted that Telangana could become a strong alternative for global investments, especially in the context of the “China Plus One” strategy. Reddy expressed confidence that Telangana is positioning itself as an attractive destination for international business.
On the issue of redrawing electoral constituencies, Reddy stressed that any changes must be based on clear criteria and thorough discussions. He warned that poorly planned adjustments could unintentionally deepen divisions, particularly in southern states.
Reddy reiterated his government’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for all citizens. He emphasized that good governance is about ensuring fairness and equal access to resources for everyone in Telangana.
One of the most significant moves by the Telangana government is the ongoing caste-based census. Reddy called it a “game changer” for the state, explaining that accurate data is essential to ensure welfare programs reach the people who need them the most.
The Chief Minister also appealed for the urgent collection of data on Other Backward Classes (OBCs) at the national level. He criticized the central government for not gathering this important information, which he believes is crucial for properly implementing reservation policies.
Reddy expressed concerns about political bias at the national level, especially regarding investment distribution. He accused the central government of ignoring opposition-ruled states, including Telangana, in favor of states like Gujarat. He argued that the Prime Minister needs to be neutral, ensuring fairness in how investments are allocated across all regions.
As an example, he mentioned the semiconductor industry, where Telangana lost a potential investment to Gujarat. While Reddy said he had no issue with Gujarat receiving the investment, he stressed that such decisions should be made in the country’s overall best interest, not based on regional politics.
In conclusion, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy laid out his vision for Telangana’s future, focusing on development, welfare, and inclusive growth. He also raised concerns about political challenges that could affect both Telangana and India as a whole. Reddy’s leadership continues to guide Telangana toward becoming a key player in India’s progress.
