Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu attends Swarna Andhra – Swachh Andhra Praja Vedika in Tirupati
Chief Minister inspects Integrated Waste Processing Centre at Renigunta, visits Kapileshwara SwamyTemple, cleans temple premises alongside staff
* “A Clean Andhra is the path to a Swarna Andhra”
* “Let us curb the plastic menace”
* “Excessive use of plastic poses a cancer risk”
* “Legacy Waste clean up by October”
* “Just as we sweep garbage from our homes, let’s remove criminals from politics”
Tirupati, July 19:
Speaking at the Swarna Andhra – Swachh Andhra Prava Vedika in Tirupati, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu called for eliminating plastic to protect the environment, warning that excessive plastic usage increases the risk of cancer.
As part of the Swarna Andhra – Swachh Andhra initiative, the CM began his day by visiting the Integrated Waste Processing Centre at Thukivakam near Renigunta. He then proceeded to Tirupati, offered special prayers at the Kapileshwara Swamy Temple, and joined sanitation workers in cleaning the temple premises. Later, he addressed the public at a Praja Vedika.
Join the Clean Andhra Mission
Expressing his joy at the enthusiasm shown by youth, the Chief Minister said, “The youth are the true wealth of the nation. Wherever you go in the world, 30% of the population is our people. Seeing the students reminds me of my college days here in Tirupati. From a student to an MLA, and now for the fourth time as Chief Minister — this journey has been possible only due to the blessings of Lord Venkateswara. Every citizen must participate in achieving a clean Andhra. Cleanliness should begin at home and extend to our neighborhoods, villages, towns, lakes, government offices, industries, hospitals, and educational institutions. We conduct this program on the third Saturday of every month. If we protect the environment, we ensure better health. We must also plant more trees.”
Sanitation Workers Deserve Awards
“It is a proud moment for our state to receive five national Swachh Survekshan Awards. Tirupati, Guntur, and Vijayawada were recognized in the Swachh Super League 2024–25. Vijayawada ranked 4th nationally and 7th among Garbage-Free Cities. Visakhapatnam secured the top rank under the Faimaithri Safe City category, while Rajamahendravaram was named a Promising Swachh City. I congratulate the sanitation workers, municipal staff, officials, and the public — your efforts have made this possible. You are the true servants of society. The Swarna Andhra – Swachh Andhra campaign is being run under the theme of eliminating plastic,” the Chief Minister said.
Tackling the Plastic Menace
“Plastic has become the biggest threat to our environment. From toothbrushes to food containers, plastic is everywhere. Disposable bottles, cups, and covers are highly hazardous. They pollute soil and water, and contribute to cancer. Accumulated plastic waste prevents rainwater from seeping into the ground, blocks plant growth, dries up water sources, and lowers groundwater levels. The more plastic we use, the worse the environmental impact. Microplastics are entering our food and water without us realizing,” he explained.
Toxic Gases Causing Respiratory Illness
“Toxic gases emitted during the production and burning of plastic cause severe respiratory illnesses and other health issues, including cancer. Plastic waste is polluting rivers, lakes, and canals, threatening aquatic life. Everyone must stop using plastic bags below 120 microns, as well as disposable cups and plates. Alternatives like cloth bags, metal straws, and compostable plates should be encouraged,” he appealed.
State Secretariat to Be Plastic-Free by August 15
“Our goal is to make the State Secretariat completely plastic-free by August 15. By October 2, all municipal corporations will implement this initiative, and by December, it will be enforced statewide. Single-use plastics are already banned in government offices. We are distributing cloth bags through self-help groups. Nothing in this world is truly waste — value can be derived from everything. Tirupati, being a sacred pilgrimage destination, must remain clean. Visitors from across India and abroad come here, and maintaining cleanliness is essential to preserving our reputation,” the CM added.
Cleanliness First, Then Prosperity
“To achieve a Swarna Andhra, we must first ensure a Clean Andhra. For this, we must embrace a circular economy. A circular economy park will be created in Thukivakam, and 300 acres have been earmarked for the same. Unfortunately, even those who drive luxury cars often throw garbage on the streets. The air we breathe comes from our surroundings — if we pollute it, we harm ourselves,” the CM said.
Legacy waste clearance by October 2
“We have established plastic segregation centers in 123 municipalities. Each day, 8,899 tonnes of waste are generated, comprising 5,496 tonnes of wet waste and 3,403 tonnes of dry waste. Efficient transport and reuse mechanisms are in place. The previous government focused on taxing garbage but neglected its removal. Around 8.6 million metric tonnes of waste were dumped. By October 2, we will clear this waste, and by December, we will achieve 100% legacy waste clearance”, the CM informed.
Focus on Green Energy
“As a child, I studied under a lantern due to lack of electricity. Today, solar power is being generated on rooftops. We’ve authorized solar panels for 2 million homes. Houses, offices, and fields are becoming power generation hubs. Previously, electricity came from coal; now, we are harnessing wind energy. I’ve prioritized green energy because global warming is a real concern, and green energy is the solution,” the CM stated.
Remove Criminals Like Household Waste
“Politics has been tainted. Criminals have entered public office and are grabbing public assets. Just as you sweep garbage from your homes, we must clean politics of criminal elements. Do we need such people in politics? Can’t we stop them? The public must reflect. I was deceived before the 2019 elections. A newspaper named ‘Sakshi’ was created, spreading misinformation. They falsely reported that a relative of mine died of a heart attack, and by evening, changed the story to a gruesome death. Eventually, they wrote that I was the villain and published an image with a sword in my hand. People were misled. But how long should we keep falling for such deception?” he asked.
Politics in Chittoor and Pulivendula
“Recently, someone visited farmers in Bangarupalyem and created a stir. Our government acted with good intentions to support mango farmers by setting a price of ₹12,000 per tonne — ₹4,000 from the government and ₹8,000 from buyers. However, they threw mangoes on the road and turned it into political drama. I don’t believe in violent politics. I’ve always worked to ensure peace and public safety. Under the NDA government, people are now living freely and happily.”
Fulfilling Promises To Chittoor
“TDP is the party that brought water to Rayalaseema. NTR initiated the Handri-Neeva, Nagari, Galeru, and Telugu Ganga projects. Through Telugu Ganga, we provided water to Tirupati. We built the Garuda bridge. When we tried to extend it to Alipiri, some opposed us. They also blocked the beautification of Avilala Lake. Now, works worth ₹3,890 crores on Handri-Neeva project will be completed by the end of this month. Soon, water will reach Kuppam and eventually Tirupati. Projects like Mallemadugu, Balaji Reservoir, Moolapet Lake, and Kalyana Dam will be completed soon. The Somashila–Swarnamukhi Link Canal will also be constructed to supply water to Balaji Reservoir, and Venugopala Sagar will be established between these. Once completed, I will have fulfilled my responsibility to my home district of Chittoor,” he affirmed.
A Guardian for Underprivileged Children
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu stated that he considers himself a guardian for underprivileged children and sees this as a divine responsibility. Speaking at the P4 (Praja Vedika) program, he said, “We aim to uplift 1.5 to 2 million poor families in the state. My dream is to make Andhra Pradesh a poverty-free state by 2029. The P4 program will stand as a global model. With the blessings of Lord Venkateswara, it will succeed. Supporting children will build their confidence and empower them to help others. My responsibility is to give them an opportunity; their responsibility is to rise. There’s no greater joy. I met 40 industrialists yesterday — they are ready to adopt thousands of families.”
Bangaru Kutumbam (Gold Family) P4 Program Empowers Families
The Bangaru Kutumbam (Gold Family) initiative, launched under the visionary P4 program, is transforming the lives of underprivileged families by offering educational and livelihood support. Two inspiring stories highlight the program’s far-reaching impact today.
D. Vinutha, a high-achieving student under the Bangaru Kutumbam program, shared her journey:
“I scored 986 marks in Intermediate (BiPC) and am now undergoing long-term coaching. My sister Anitha has completed Intermediate, and my brother Ganesh is in 10th grade. We lost our mother in 2014 and our father during the COVID pandemic. With the support of our grandparents, we are continuing our education. I aim to become a doctor, while my sister and brother wish to enter the civil services. If someone guides us, we’ll work hard, succeed, and help others in return.”
Rajendra Shetty, President of the Rotary Club, applauded the government’s efforts and pledged support for Vinutha:
“Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is truly a blessing from Lord Venkateswara. His vision behind the P4 program is extraordinary and will set a global benchmark. On behalf of the Rotary Club, we commit to supporting the full education of Vinutha and her siblings” he said.
Eeshwari, another beneficiary of the program, shared her experience:
“My husband passed away in 2019. I have two sons studying in Grade 8 and Grade 5. My in-laws have not been supportive. I want to ensure both my children receive a quality education.”
Srinivas, Senior Scientist at the RASS Knowledge Center stepped forward to support her:
“We will help Eeshwari gain financial independence by enrolling her in a beautician course. Additionally, we will sponsor the education of her two children through our institution” he said.
