‘I will Give Entire Land For 99 Paise, What’s Wrong?’

Nara Lokesh addressed the media on Monday and responded to questions about allotting prime land to tech companies for 99 paise. The issue has triggered political debate, with opposition parties questioning the intent behind offering land at such a nominal price.

Lokesh replied sharply, saying he was ready to give the entire land for Rs 0.99, not just one square yard or one acre. He questioned what was wrong with the decision and said the focus should remain on job creation.

The HR Minister asked how companies like Cognizant, TCS and Google chose Vizag. He stated that his government achieved in 18 months what the previous government failed to do in five years, highlighting faster execution and policy clarity.

The opposition has raised strong objections, claiming prime land is being handed over to tech giants at almost zero cost. YSRCP leaders have pushed the narrative that large land parcels are being given away without public benefit.

Dismissing the criticism, Lokesh said incentives are essential to attract major companies. He added that such steps align with Chandrababu’s idea of improving speed of doing business and driving long term economic growth.