Nellore: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday released `300 crore towards Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) of 2,351 families displaced by the Veligonda project in Markapur district.
He reaffirmed his government's commitment to completing the irrigation project next year.
Addressing farmers and project oustees at Gantavanipalle in Yerragondapalem constituency, the Chief Minister declared that the R&R amount would be credited into beneficiaries' bank accounts within two days. He announced that another ₹600 crore would be released shortly.
Naidu disclosed that the coalition government has sanctioned ₹905 crore for rehabilitation and earmarked over ₹3,000 crore for completing the remaining works of the project.
Describing Veligonda as the lifeline of Prakasam, Nellore, Kadapa, and Markapuram regions, the Chief Minister said the project would irrigate 4.47 lakh acres and provide drinking water to 23 lakh people across the four districts. Phase-I of the project, scheduled for completion by July 31, will irrigate 1.19 lakh acres and supply drinking water to four lakh people. Phase-II will extend irrigation to another 3.25 lakh acres and provide drinking water to 11.25 lakh people.
Naidu said the project, conceived during the tenure of former chief minister N.T. Rama Rao and initiated in 1996, is estimated to cost ₹10,580 crore. He explained that the project, once completed, would boost groundwater levels, promote horticulture, and support agro-food processing industries which, along with the upcoming Ramayapatnam Port and industrial clusters, would generate employment for local youth.
Later in the day, the AP CM launched the Sanjeevani programme at the Primary Health Centre in Kishtamsettipalle in Giddalur constituency. After reviewing healthcare services and interacting with patients, he asked people to adopt healthy lifestyles through yoga, meditation, pranayama, regular exercise, and nutritious diets rich in traditional millets.
Highlighting sustainable agriculture, Naidu said Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the national leader in natural farming, covering nearly 20 lakh acres. He urged farmers to reduce the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides. He pointed out that the government has introduced a dedicated app to promote scientific and natural farming practices. He clarified that there is no shortage of urea in the state.
The Chief Minister encouraged students to acquire skills in artificial intelligence and quantum technologies, saying these fields would shape future employment opportunities. He reiterated that the government is examining incentives for larger families in view of emerging demographic challenges.

