Nara Lokesh keen on reforms in TDP structure

TDP national general secretary and Minister Nara Lokesh reaffirmed his commitment to securing proper recognition and respect for party activists. Addressing a massive gathering at NTR Bhavan in Mangalagiri on the occasion of the Formation Day of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Lokesh reflected on the party’s remarkable journey, its challenges, and its steadfast bond with its cadre. Lokesh described the TDP’s yellow flag as more than just a symbol, calling it an “emotion” for party leaders and activists.
 “The TDP alone has a cadre that continues to raise the party flag despite facing numerous adversities. The very formation of the TDP was a revolution, and its first victory remains a historic achievement,” he said, acknowledging the party’s 43-year legacy.  
The TDP’s rise to power within just nine months of its formation under the leadership of the late NT Rama Rao was a testament to its strong foundation and significance in Indian politics, Lokesh remarked.
The TDP, Lokesh noted, was founded on the philosophy that “society is the temple, and the people are the gods.” He expressed pride in the fact that, despite facing countless challenges over the years, the party continues to work towards the welfare and self-respect of the Telugu community. “While NTR introduced welfare to the nation, it was my father, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, who brought development to the country,” he stated, distinguishing between the two leaders’ contributions to both state and national politics.
Lokesh underscored the TDP’s role in major national developments, including electing Dr Abdul Kalam as President, promoting GMC Balayogi as Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and advocating for the recognition of Dr BR Ambedkar with the Bharat Ratna. The party also played a crucial role in shaping the country’s infrastructure, power reforms, and the introduction of the digital payment system, he said.
Reflecting on the political changes in the state, Lokesh described the period between 2019 and 2024 as a “historic anarchic rule” but asserted that the TDP had remained resilient in the face of adversity. He vowed that the party would continue its fight for a poverty-free society and reaffirmed its commitment to welfare schemes such as pension revisions, the Deepam scheme, and the provision of cooking gas cylinders. “We are paying the highest pension in the country and have already distributed one crore cooking gas cylinders,” he said, adding that 16,347 posts would soon be filled through the DSC.
Lokesh also highlighted the progress made in fulfilling the promises in the TDP’s election manifesto, noting that out of 177 promises, 55 are being fully implemented and 49 partially. He announced the upcoming launch of the “Talliki Vandanam” and “Annadata Sukhibhava” schemes, along with Rs 20,000 financial assistance for fishermen, starting in May.
Reaffirming his commitment to party workers, Lokesh declared that the TDP accords the highest respect to its activists, adding that it is the only party in the country where an activist is considered a leader. He revealed that the TDP had enrolled over one crore members in just 83 days, with a total of 1.02 crore members in both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Lokesh stressed his resolve to ensure that hard-working activists receive due recognition within the party structure.
“I will fight for the recognition of our cadre, both inside and outside the party. My goal is to provide opportunities for those who work hard and help them rise through the ranks,” Lokesh asserted. He proposed a new policy that would require leaders who have held posts for two consecutive terms to either move to a higher position or take a break for one term, thereby ensuring a healthy rotation and the infusion of fresh leadership.
Lokesh also expressed his determination to cleanse the party by promoting those who engage directly with the public. He announced that all nominated posts within the party would be filled soon. Drawing attention to the growing influence of the “Red Book,” Lokesh reminded party members that power should not lead to arrogance. “We must all remember that our survival depends on the people’s blessings. Let us work for the people and strive to win their hearts,” he concluded.