On June 24,2026,N. Chandrababu Naidu,Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh,opened first unit of Jonnagiri Gold Mining Project in Kurnool district. Developed by Geomysore Services India Pvt. Limited (GMSI),project aims to revive region's fortunes. Naidu called it new era for Rayalaseema,naming it “Ratanala Seema.”
At inauguration,Naidu said Jonnagiri,once Suvarnagiri,will become model growth center for state. He cited region's history in gold and stone processing, mentioning ancient Ashokan inscriptions of its past importance . While Kolar Gold Fields in Karnataka once led Indian gold mining, Jonnagiri now draws national spotlight.
Plant has annual capacity of 400 kg of gold,with future plans for 1,000 kg . Naidu said project already created 800 jobs, aiming for 1,500 more families, nearly 5,000 jobs total. Establishing jewellery manufacturing unit in Rayalaseema is crucial,he noted, to bolster industry and skilled jobs .
Naidu unveiled big ideas for Kurnool, like country's largest Drone City and a High Court Bench . A steel plant to start in Rayalaseema by 2028. He reflected on past, crediting former Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao with irrigation projects essential for drought-hit area, stressing their role in region's revival.
Politically,Naidu took aim at YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), accusing it of “destructive rule” from 2019 to 2024 . He said YSRCP engaged in divisive,caste politics,especially after alleged custodial death of G. Sai Krishna in Vijayawada. Naidu criticized opposition for politicizing incident instead of letting facts unfold through due process.
He also denounced derogatory remarks by YSRCP leaders against Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan,asserting government ready to counter such attacks. On YSRCP’s claims about Mega DSC,Naidu argued opposition's reluctance to debate reveals their weak stance.
For employee welfare, Naidu said nearly 11,000 workers moved from Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) to Old Pension System (OPS),though not election promise. He claimed this shift has brought relief to affected families…
