Mangalagiri: TDP national general secretary and IT minister Nara Lokesh said political parties must evolve with time to stay relevant. He stressed that TDP’s real strength lies in its committed grassroots workers. Lokesh made these remarks while inaugurating a Parliament Committee workshop at the party’s central office in Mangalagiri along with TDP state president Palla Srinivasa Rao.
Commitment Brings Responsibility in Party Structure
Addressing party leaders, Lokesh said responsibility was given only to those who showed commitment. He noted that 83 per cent of newly appointed Parliament Committee members were first-time representatives. According to him, performance matters more than seniority. He added that both senior and junior leaders would receive equal respect if they worked sincerely.
Cadre Is the Backbone of Telugu Desam Party
Lokesh said no other regional party in the country has a cadre like TDP. He recalled several sacrifices made by party workers during difficult times. From grassroots leaders protecting polling booths to activists standing firm despite attacks, he said such dedication defined Telugu Desam’s identity. He called these sacrifices his inspiration and emotional strength.
Chandrababu Naidu Is the Brand Ambassador of Development
Praising party chief Chandrababu Naidu, Lokesh said he remains a trendsetter in governance. He described Naidu as the brand ambassador of both development and welfare. Lokesh stated that Naidu introduced welfare reforms that later became national models. Even at 75, he said Naidu works with the energy of a young leader.
Industries Came to Andhra Pradesh Due to Visionary Leadership
Lokesh said Andhra Pradesh attracted major investments due to Chandrababu Naidu’s foresight. He recalled criticism faced during the introduction of IT reforms in 1995. Today, he said, IT transformed countless families. Companies like Google, Cognizant, and ArcelorMittal chose Andhra Pradesh due to stable governance and clear policies.
Strong Attack on Political Opponents
Criticising the opposition, Lokesh accused Team 11 of becoming brand ambassadors for adulterated ghee, illicit liquor, and violent politics. He said while TDP focused on clean governance, opponents promoted corruption and lawlessness. He urged party workers to clearly communicate this difference to the public.
Welfare Spending Reflects Government Commitment
Lokesh said the government spends nearly ₹30,000 crore annually on pensions alone. He highlighted ₹4,000 old-age pensions, ₹6,000 for the disabled, and ₹15,000 for bedridden citizens. Free bus travel for women, free gas cylinders under the Deepam scheme, and farmer support under Annadata Sukhibhava were also implemented.
Jobs, Investments, and Infrastructure on Fast Track
Lokesh said the coalition government fulfilled job promises despite legal hurdles. Within 150 days, the government completed DSC recruitment and provided jobs to 16,000 teachers. Another 6,000 were appointed as police constables. He added that 25 per cent of national investments were currently flowing into Andhra Pradesh. The government also spent ₹2,000 crore to repair damaged roads.
Grassroots Leaders Must Rise to Top Positions
Concluding his speech, Lokesh said a village-level party president should grow into a Politburo leader. He urged committee members to proudly speak about development work. He said the responsibility to communicate achievements now rests with party leaders and cadres.
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