Lokesh Asks Youths to Join Politics

Telugu Desam Party (TDP) national working president and Andhra Pradesh education minister N. Lokesh called on youth to enter politics during a Mahanadu event at the party’s headquarters in Vijayawada. He stressed the party’s commitment to nurturing young leaders, encouraging even village unit presidents to aim for roles in the politburo. Lokesh shared his own experience, including his 2019 electoral defeat in Mangalagiri and his 2024 victory with a margin of 91,000 votes, urging resilience in the face of challenges. Lokesh highlighted the government’s focus on sectors like artificial intelligence and quantum technology, alongside reforms in higher education and a cluster-based industrial system. Twenty-two industrial clusters—covering IT, automotive manufacturing, and renewable energy—are being developed, along with skill programs tailored to industry needs. He cited Andhra Pradesh’s Rs 23 lakh crore investments, involving firms like Google, ArcelorMittal, and Reliance, urging youth to upskill for employment opportunities. The minister reaffirmed the government’s stance on ‘one state, one capital’ and decentralized development while advocating for 33% women’s reservation, starting with household-level empowerment. He warned against misinformation on social media, particularly regarding DSC examination allegations, and defended the government’s transparent 150-day recruitment process. Participants in the discussion included Vemuri Satwik from Guntur, Charan Yadav and Satya Sai Pawan Kumar from Vijayawada, and Khyathi Vardhini from Amaravati. Lokesh also advised students not to fear failure, comparing exam pressures to his own political setbacks, and pledged government support for their growth.