Amaravati Officially Declared as Andhra Pradesh Capital After Years of Anticipation

In a significant development, Amaravati has been officially declared the capital of Andhra Pradesh, a decision long awaited since the state's bifurcation in 2014. The announcement, made on April 6, follows the signing of a gazette notification that retroactively recognizes Amaravati as the capital from June 2, 2024. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu confirmed this on social media, expressing gratitude to national leaders for their support. While many have welcomed the decision, some opposition voices have raised concerns about its implications. This article delves into the details of the announcement and its impact on the state's governance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 7, 2026, 10:59 IST

Amaravati's Official Capital Status Confirmed

After years of waiting, Amaravati has been officially designated as the capital of Andhra Pradesh. The announcement was made on April 6, following the signing of a gazette notification under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization (Amendment) Act, 2026, which legally validates a decision anticipated since the state's bifurcation in 2014. According to the notification, Amaravati will be recognized as the official capital retroactively from June 2, 2024.

Legal Confirmation of Governance Continuity

This decision ensures continuity in governance and provides legal backing to the choice of the city as the administrative center. The announcement marks the formal end of a 12-year period of uncertainty that followed the formation of Telangana and the arrangement of a joint capital with Hyderabad.

CM Naidu Confirms the Development

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu confirmed this development on social media, stating, "Amaravati is the capital of Andhra Pradesh." This declaration came after the passage of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization (Amendment) Act in Parliament.

Amendment to Previous Legislation

The new law amends the 2014 Reorganization Act, which explicitly stated that "Amaravati will be the new capital," thereby replacing the previous arrangement that designated Hyderabad as a temporary joint capital.

Legislative Support for Amaravati

The decision gained momentum after the state assembly passed a resolution supporting Amaravati on March 28. Subsequently, the Lok Sabha approved the bill on April 1, followed by its passage in the Rajya Sabha on April 2.

CM Expresses Gratitude

Naidu expressed his gratitude to the national leadership for supporting this decision. He thanked President Droupadi Murmu for endorsing the law and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his guidance, stating, "This is a victory for the people of Andhra Pradesh, especially for the farmers of Amaravati."

Mixed Reactions to the Announcement

While many welcomed this move, opposition voices raised concerns regarding the decision. YSR Congress Party MP Golla Babu Rao criticized the law, labeling it as "a drama" and emphasized that any changes to the capital should consider the interests of all societal segments.