Amaravati Declared Capital of Andhra Pradesh: President Droupadi Murmu Approves Historic Amendment Act 2026

In a landmark development for Andhra Pradesh, the long-pending dream of establishing Amaravati as the State’s capital received a decisive boost after Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Act, 2026.

The move has formally granted legal backing to Amaravati as the capital, marking a significant milestone in the state’s political and administrative journey.

Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu Calls It a ‘Historic Victory’

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed profound gratitude to the President for her approval, describing it as the fulfilment of a long-cherished aspiration of the people.

He also thanked the Union Government led by Narendra Modi for its continued support and guidance in bringing the legislation to fruition.

Mr. Naidu extended his appreciation to Members of Parliament who backed the Bill, as well as to State leaders and citizens who stood united on the issue.

Emphasising the emotional and economic significance of the moment, he termed the development a “victory for the people of Andhra Pradesh,” with special recognition for the farmers of Amaravati who played a crucial role through their sacrifices and sustained support.

Nara Lokesh Terms It a ‘Historic Day’ for Andhra Pradesh

Echoing similar sentiments, Andhra Pradesh Minister for Education and IT, Nara Lokesh described the day as historic for every citizen of the state.

He noted that the President’s assent has transformed the long-standing vision of Amaravati into a concrete reality.

Mr. Lokesh thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his vision and commitment to Andhra Pradesh’s future and acknowledged the collective efforts of Members of Parliament in ensuring the Bill’s passage.

He paid special tribute to the farmers of Amaravati, stating that their patience, resilience, and sacrifice were instrumental in achieving this milestone.

BJP Reacts: Permanent Recognition for Amaravati as Capital

Andhra Pradesh BJP president PVN Madhav welcomed the recent development concerning Amaravati.

He stated that the assent and gazette notification by President Droupadi Murmu to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Act, 2026 has granted permanent recognition to Amaravati as the state capital.

He described it as a significant and joyous moment for the people of Andhra Pradesh.

Reiterating the BJP’s commitment to the state’s progress, Madhav said the party would continue to work in coordination with its alliance partners to ensure sustained development and stability in Andhra Pradesh.

Historical Context: From Hyderabad to Amaravati Capital Status

Under the original 2014 Act, Hyderabad was designated as a temporary joint capital for Telangana and Andhra Pradesh for up to ten years.

The amendment confirms Amaravati as the successor capital to Hyderabad, effective retroactively from June 2, 2024.

It includes all areas specified under the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority Act, 2014.

Political Context: End of Three Capitals Model in Andhra Pradesh

TDP MP Lavu Krishna emphasized the bill’s intent to provide continuity and clarity by formally recognizing Amaravati as the sole capital.

The previous decision (2019-2025) to establish three capitals — administrative in Visakhapatnam, legislative in Amaravati, and judicial in Kurnool — is being reversed.

This amendment fulfills a long-standing promise by TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu, who had initially announced Amaravati as the capital in 2015.

Political Developments: Power Shift and Policy Reversal

After the TDP's 2019 electoral defeat, the YSR Congress government attempted to implement a three-capital model.

Upon regaining power in 2024, Naidu reasserted Amaravati’s status as the sole capital, leading to the legislative push for clarity.

Legal and Administrative Implications of Amaravati Capital Decision

The amendment aims to legally confirm Amaravati’s status as the sole capital.

It is intended to prevent any future changes to the capital and streamline governance and administrative planning.

Why Amaravati Capital Status Matters for Andhra Pradesh

This decision is expected to bring:

• Greater administrative clarity

• Stronger investor confidence

• Accelerated infrastructure development

• Long-term political stability

The formal recognition of Amaravati as the capital marks a turning point in Andhra Pradesh’s governance and development roadmap.