Centre Issues Gazette Notification
The Government of India has officially declared Amaravati as the permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh. The decision was confirmed through a gazette notification issued on April 6, 2026, bringing clarity to the state’s capital status.
President Murmu Approves Amendment Bill
The move comes after President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The bill, which was passed in Parliament last week, formally recognizes Amaravati as the sole capital of the state.
Parliament Clears the Bill
The legislation received approval from both Houses of Parliament. The Rajya Sabha passed the bill through a voice vote, while the Lok Sabha had cleared it a day earlier. A total of 35 Members of Parliament participated in the debate.
End of Three-Capital Model Debate
The new law amends the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014 and effectively puts an end to the long-standing political debate over the proposed three-capital model. With this decision, any future attempts to shift or introduce multiple capitals are now unlikely.
Political Reactions and Opposition
While most political parties supported the bill, members of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) opposed it. They argued that the decision undermines the interests of farmers who had contributed land for the development of the capital region.
Background: From Proposal to Final Decision
The foundation for Amaravati as the capital was first laid in 2015 during the tenure of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP). However, after the YSRCP came to power in 2019, development projects in Amaravati were halted, and a three-capital model was proposed.
Return of Amaravati as Sole Capital
Following the return of the TDP-led NDA government in 2024, the decision was revisited. The government reinstated Amaravati as the sole capital and resumed stalled development projects last year.
A New Chapter for Andhra Pradesh
With the official declaration now in place, Amaravati is set to function as the permanent administrative capital of Andhra Pradesh, marking a significant political and developmental milestone for the state.