Amaravati/New Delhi, Apr 2 (PTI) Andhra Pradesh IT Minister and TDP national general secretary Nara Lokesh on Thursday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to thank him for the central government’s role in securing legal status for Amaravati as the state’s sole and permanent capital.

Lokesh expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the prime minister for his leadership and commitment in ensuring the passage of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026.

“On behalf of the people of Andhra Pradesh, he personally conveyed his thanks for the Centre’s steadfast support in granting legal backing to Amaravati,” the TDP said in a statement.

The minister also acknowledged the Union government’s pivotal role in bringing together support from across political parties in favour of Andhra Pradesh.

The Bill, passed by the Lok Sabha on April 1 with support from the BJP, Congress and TDP, got the Rajya Sabha’s nod on Thursday. The YSRCP opposed the Bill and walked out.

The legislation marks a significant milestone in the state’s journey toward having a permanent capital following its bifurcation in 2014.

The Amaravati issue has remained politically contentious, with the YSRCP opposing the declaration of Amaravati as the sole capital, citing financial burden, uncertainty over land and funding, and concerns over farmers who gave up their agricultural land for the project.

The party has also raised allegations of corruption and insider trading, while the ruling side has accused the YSRCP of obstructing Amaravati’s development and defending its earlier three-capitals policy. PTI LUX STH SKY SKY