In the town of Neelapalli,the once-thriving indigo factories have largely vanished, leaving behind sense of loss among local residents. The decline of these factories reflects a broader trend in the Amalapuram taluk, where only a few indigo units remain operational . According to the Godavari District Gazetteer by F.R. Hemingway, seven factories in the region still employ over 30 workers each during the season,with Velanakapalli and Ayinavalli employing 75 and 150 hands, respectively.
Residents of Yanam,where Neelapalli is located, lament the disappearance of these traditional indigo units. The factories once played crucial role in the local economy, providing jobs and sustaining livelihoods. As the factories have closed, many workers have been left without employment,prompting concerns about the future of indigo production in the area.
Meanwhile,the legacy of J.V. Somayajulu,a notable figure from the region,continues to resonate. Known as Sankarabharanam Sankara Sastry,he was a Deputy Collector who transitioned into acting,gaining fame in Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam films. Somayajulu was born in Lukalam village in Srikakulam district and received Filmfare Award for Best Actor in 1981 for his role in acclaimed film Sankarabharanam,directed by K. Viswanath. His contributions to both civil service and cinema left a lasting impact on community.
The evolution of the Rajahmundry municipality also reflects region's historical development. Established in 1866 with a council of ten members, the municipality expanded to 18 members by 1895. The introduction of an electoral system in 1884 marked a significant step in local governance. In 1994, the civic body was upgraded to a corporation, with Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu,the first Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh,serving as its Chairman in 1903. Today, the corporation serves a population of approximately 410,000,with plans to merge ten Gram Panchayats into the civic body .
In Rajamahendravaram, the Government Institute of Advanced Study in Education stands as a testament to region's commitment to education. Originally established in 1883,the institute was designated as a Government Training College for teacher education year later. It was renamed in 1959 following the Kothari Commission's recommendations. The building, constructed in 1900 and now recognized as a heritage site, continues to play a vital role in training both pre-service and in-service teachers.
In a more contemporary development,an aircraft museum was inaugurated on Kakinada beach in February 2024. This museum showcases the Indian Navy’s decommissioned aircraft,the TU-142M,which served for three decades. Developed by the Kakinada Urban Development Authority at a cost of ₹5.89 crore, it is second aircraft museum in Andhra Pradesh, offering visitors insights into the aircraft's operations and history.
