Legislative Move to Recognise Amaravati as the Capital
The Centre is preparing to introduce the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha to officially designate Amaravati as the state's only capital. This move seeks to amend the existing law to clearly name Amaravati and remove any previous ambiguities regarding the capital city.
Amendment Details
The proposed law will modify Section 5 of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014. Originally, Hyderabad was designated as a joint capital for Andhra Pradesh and Telangana for ten years after bifurcation, with no fixed capital explicitly assigned to Andhra Pradesh. The new bill explicitly states Amaravati as the capital region, backed by a land pooling model where farmers have voluntarily surrendered land for development. Over 34,000 acres have been contributed, with plans to expand to around 54,000 acres in the next phase.
Political Support and Resolution
This proposal follows a unanimous resolution passed by the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on March 28, 2026. The assembly urged the central government to legally recognise Amaravati as the permanent capital. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu affirmed that Amaravati is the clear choice, aligning with constitutional and public preferences.
Project Development and Future Plans
The Amaravati project is designed as a sustainable 'Blue-Green City,' featuring modern infrastructure. Currently, around 91 projects worth ₹56,000 crore are under progress, creating numerous employment opportunities. Key infrastructure, such as roads, government buildings, and various institutions, is expected to be ready between 2027 and 2028. The revival of the Amaravati plan marks a return to the original vision after a period of uncertainty when a three-capital model was considered earlier.
Important Facts for Exams
- Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014 led to bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
- Hyderabad served as joint capital for 10 years post-bifurcation.
- Amaravati is a planned greenfield capital city project.
- Land pooling is a model where farmers voluntarily contribute land for development.
