The Centre is set to introduce the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha to formally recognise Amaravati as the sole capital of Andhra Pradesh. The move aims to provide statutory backing to the greenfield capital project and resolve the long-standing uncertainty over the State’s capital.
Legislative Push for Amaravati
The proposed amendment seeks to revise Section 5 of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, which was enacted after the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The original law designated Hyderabad as the joint capital for both states for a period of ten years but did not specify a permanent capital for Andhra Pradesh.
The new Bill proposes to explicitly name Amaravati as the State’s sole capital, thereby removing any ambiguity.
Assembly Resolution and Political Backing
This move follows a unanimous resolution passed by the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on March 28, 2026, urging the Union government to grant legal recognition to Amaravati as the permanent capital. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reiterated that Amaravati is the definitive choice and emphasised that the decision reflects both constitutional provisions and the will of the people.
Key Amendments and Land Pooling Model
- The amendment proposes inserting the phrase “at Amaravati” in the relevant section of the 2014 Act.
- It seeks to define Amaravati as the capital region notified under the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority Act, 2014.
A major pillar of the project is its land pooling model, under which:
- Over 34,000 acres have been voluntarily contributed by farmers
- The total land bank stands at around 54,000 acres
- Plans are in place to expand this further in a second phase
This model is often cited as a unique approach to large-scale urban development in India.
Development Plans and Timeline
Amaravati is being developed as a sustainable “Blue-Green City” with modern, future-ready infrastructure.
- Around 91 infrastructure projects worth ₹56,000 crore are currently underway
- These projects are generating significant employment
- Key infrastructure—including roads, government complexes, and institutional buildings—is expected to be completed between 2027 and 2028
The renewed momentum comes after a phase of uncertainty, during which a three-capital model had been proposed earlier.
Key Points
- Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014 → Bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
- Hyderabad → Joint capital for 10 years post-bifurcation
- Amaravati → Planned greenfield capital city
- Land Pooling Model → Farmers voluntarily contribute land for development