Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh is determined to transform Mangalagiri into a fortress constituency for the Telugu Desam Party (TDP).
With a strong focus on the development of the region, Lokesh has made it clear that Mangalagiri holds special importance for him — both politically and personally.
Historically, Mangalagiri has been a bastion for the Congress and later the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP).
Lokesh contested from this constituency in the 2019 elections but lost to YSRCP’s Alla Ramakrishna Reddy, leading many to speculate that he would shift to another constituency in 2024.
Contrary to expectations, Lokesh surprised everyone by announcing his decision to contest again from Mangalagiri, vowing to reclaim it and gift the victory to TDP.
This was seen as a bold political gamble, with critics warning that another defeat could mark the end of his political career.
However, Lokesh proved his critics wrong by winning with a majority of over 90,000 votes and gifting a stronghold to his party.
Now, as a minister in the ruling coalition, he has taken special interest in Mangalagiri’s development.
Under his leadership, affordable housing projects for the poor have already been implemented, with Lokesh personally overseeing housewarming ceremonies. He has also promised to provide homes for those still without shelter.
Most recently, Lokesh announced plans to bring IT and non-IT companies to Mangalagiri.
On Tuesday, he held a detailed review meeting with officials at his Undavalli residence, discussing the progress of development projects through a PowerPoint presentation.
Lokesh stated that Mangalagiri could generate employment for 50,000 people in the coming years.
He emphasized that several companies have expressed interest in setting up operations in the area and directed officials to focus on infrastructure needed to support this growth.
He also instructed officials to begin the second phase of housing title deed distribution, targeting 2,000 families residing on government land in Mangalagiri.
Additionally, he pointed out the need for 10,000 TIDCO houses across the constituency and urged the administration to begin land acquisition for the same.
With such initiatives, Lokesh appears intent on turning Mangalagiri into a model constituency and a political stronghold for TDP, fulfilling his promise and reinforcing his leadership credentials.
