Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu. | Photo credit: File Photo
Andhra Pradesh Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu informed the Legislative Assembly that the government is committed to solving the drinking water problems faced by Tirumala and Tirupati by boosting supply through major irrigation projects.
Tirupati MLA Arani Srinivasulu raised the issue in the House on Thursday and urged the government to focus on the growing need for drinking water in the pilgrimage town. “The growing number of devotees and the expansion of commercial activities in Tirupati have greatly increased the demand for water, necessitating urgent and long-term measures,” he said.
Addressing the concerns, Mr. Ramanaidu said the government has already initiated steps to increase drinking water supply through Handri-Neeva Sujala Sravanti (HNSS) and Galeru-Nagari Sujala Sravanti (GNSS) projects.
At present, the drinking water needs of Tirupati and Tirumala were met from three primary sources – KP Canal (also known as SSG Canal), Kalyani Dam and a number of dams located in Tirumala, including Gogarbham, Akashaganga, Papavinasanam, Kumaradhara and Pasupudhara.
To meet the growing demand and ensure long-term sustainability, the government has proposed drinking water supply through II. phase of the GNSS and the HNSS project. “Under Phase II of GNSS, water will be allocated specifically for Tirupati and Tirumala,” the minister said.
“No IIIT in Puttaparthi”
Puttaparthi MLA Palle Sindhura Reddy sought clarification on the proposal to set up IIIT in Puttaparthi. Responding to a query, Human Rights Minister Nara Lokesh said that no such proposal is under consideration by the government.
“The state has four IIIT campuses and requires ₹ 600 crore to complete infrastructure work in the existing institutions. The focus is to accommodate students in the campus premises,” Mr Lokesh said, adding that the proposal would be brought to the notice of the Chief Minister.
When Polavaram MLA Balaraju raised the issue of transfer of employees in tribal areas, Minister G. Sandhya Rani said that steps have been taken to ensure posting of tribal employees in tribal areas. “Court-related issues that have been going on since the previous regime have caused complications,” she said.
Scholarships
Vizianagaram MLA Pusapati Aditi Vijayalakshmi sought clarification on the status of pre-matric and post-matric scholarships and revision of mess fees provided to students.
Responding to a query, BC Social Affairs Minister Savita said that instructions have been issued to review and increase disorder charges. She said the government was committed to providing quality food with adequate nutritional value to students in hostels and educational institutions.
“The blessing of students remains the government’s priority, and measures will be taken to improve facilities and financial support systems. The aim of the proposed revision is to address rising costs and ensure better living conditions for students, especially those from economically weaker sections,” said the minister.
Published – 12 Feb 2026 18:49 IST