Andhra Pradesh leaders call for inclusive growth, stronger democracy on 79th I-Day celebrations

On the occasion of the 79th Independence Day, leaders across Andhra Pradesh emphasised the imperative of responsible governance, inclusive development, and the preservation of India’s democratic ethos. Delivering stirring messages at key government institutions, they stressed the importance of bridging social and economic divides.

At the State Legislative Assembly, Speaker Ch. Ayyanna Patrudu implored citizens, especially the youth, to honour the sacrifices made by freedom fighters and uphold the spirit of democracy. “The life of democracy does not lie in facilities, but in efficient governance,” he declared, urging public representatives to actively participate in Assembly sessions and address the people’s concerns through welfare-driven policies.

Addressing staff at the State Secretariat, Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand underscored the need for development and welfare programmes to reach every beneficiary at the grassroots level. He detailed the government’s Swarna Andhra P-4 Foundation, an ambitious initiative aimed at eradicating poverty and reducing economic inequalities. Mr. Vijayanand introduced a phased plan to make Andhra Pradesh a single-use plastic-free State by 5 June 2026, beginning with a complete ban at the Secretariat from Independence Day.

Chairman Koyye Moshen Raju, presiding over the State Legislative Council celebrations, highlighted education as the cornerstone for eliminating economic disparities. “Even after 79 years of independence, inequalities persist because many citizens still lack full access to education and healthcare,” he pointed out, urging governments to ensure equal opportunities for all, regardless of caste, religion, or region.

Leaders paid floral tributes to the portrait of Mahatma Gandhi and hoisted the national flag. Reverential mentions were made of freedom icons such as Subhash Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, Alluri Sitharama Raju, Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy, B.R. Ambedkar, and Pingali Venkaiah.