Kolkata, June 19: Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh recently met with West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. Following their meeting, Lokesh issued a statement highlighting the significance of their discussions.
Lokesh expressed his admiration for Adhikari’s energy and vision. He noted that Andhra Pradesh now faces a formidable competitor in West Bengal. “Andhra Pradesh is always ready for business,” he stated. He believes that competition among states ultimately leads to India’s success. “The story of India’s progress has just begun. The key lies in seizing opportunities, and states like Andhra Pradesh should lead this journey,” he added.
He further mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is simplifying the regulatory framework and implementing reforms across various sectors. However, he emphasized that real progress occurs at the state level. “It is exciting for states like Andhra Pradesh to be at the forefront of the reform process,” he remarked.
Lokesh highlighted that Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is currently in his fourth term, bringing the same energy and vision with a young team. “Fifty percent of our legislators are first-time elected members, and 17 out of 25 ministers are serving in their first term. We are infusing energy, enthusiasm, and new ideas into our governance,” he stated.
He outlined their ambitious goal of attracting 25 percent of total investments in India to Andhra Pradesh. “This is just the beginning. My Chief Minister will only be satisfied when 50 percent of investments come to our state. We are here to compete because when states compete, India wins,” he asserted.
During discussions with the West Bengal Chief Minister, they exchanged ideas on welfare schemes, development projects, industrial policies, land pooling, and land acquisition. They also identified sectors like aquaculture where both states can collaborate.
Lokesh requested land for constructing a temple for Lord Balaji in West Bengal, to which Adhikari responded positively, agreeing to advance the proposal. “There is tremendous energy and goodwill between our states,” he noted.
He concluded by stating that they agreed to maintain contact and exchange ideas in real-time. “Andhra Pradesh can learn a lot from West Bengal, and I believe this marks the beginning of a strong and beneficial relationship between our two states,” he said.
Leave a Comment