This Article is From Jun 03, 2016

Bifurcation Issue: Chandrababu Naidu Expresses Displeasure Over Centre's Role

Bifurcation Issue: Chandrababu Naidu Expresses Displeasure Over Centre's Role

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said with great difficulty the state could increase its income from 47 per cent to 50.33 per cent in the last two years. (File photo)

Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu today expressed displeasure over Centre not completing the division of government institutions listed under Schedule 9 and 10 of the AP Reorganisation Act, 2014, even two years after the bifurcation of the state.

"This has been creating trouble between the two neighbouring states," Mr Naidu said, adding it was the Centre's responsibility to resolve the issue expeditiously.

The chief minister addressed a teleconference with 5,600 officials, people's representatives, including TDP legislators and others from his residence in Vijayawada and discussed the bifurcation-related issues, a release from his office said.

He also vent his ire at the Centre for releasing "only Rs 2,300 crore" for bridging Andhra Pradesh's revenue deficit caused by the bifurcation.

"Our revenue deficit in the first year (after bifurcation) is Rs 16,000 crore but the Centre released only Rs 2300 crore for bridging the gap. The 14th Finance Commission clearly stated that we will still be reeling under a huge fiscal deficit even in 2019-20, than the northeastern states," he pointed out.

With great difficulty, Andhra Pradesh could increase its income from 47 per cent to 50.33 per cent in the last two years, he said.

But the state recorded an economic growth rate of 10.99 per cent that was three per cent more than the national average.

In terms of per capita income, however, Andhra Pradesh lagged behind all other southern states, the chief minister said.

"Hence, the Centre should extend all support to us till we grow equally with other states. We should not rest till we achieve that," he told the officials and people's representatives.

"We are at a turn in history. If we are careless, we will go back but if we go ahead with a determination, we can achieve unimaginable results," Mr Naidu said.
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