Andhra Pradesh to Play Key Role in Viksit Bharat, Says Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri

Andhra Pradesh is full of opportunities in the petroleum sector and will play a key role in India’s march towards the goal of Viksit Bharat, said Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. The Union Minister addressed the post-budget interaction with the media in Vijayawada yesterday. He highlighted various provisions in the budget that will help attract investments to Andhra Pradesh.

He mentioned that there has been a 264 percent rise in



grants-in-aid allocation to Andhra Pradesh from 2014 to 2024 compared to the 2004 to 2014 period. He also stated that the budget for 2025-26 is the most middle-class-friendly budget and stands out for introducing zero income tax on earnings up to 12 lakh rupees. During his visit, the Union Minister met with state ministers and officials, emphasising the importance of Andhra Pradesh in driving the nation’s progress.