As part of its conclave at Vizag, the BJP discussed the special status issue and also felt that despite the Center doing a lot for Andhra Pradesh, the perception was being generated that it is not doing anything for the State.
It also decided to educate the masses on the benefits of a ‘special status’ versus special incentives package for the State.
If AP gets a special status then 90% of the Central funds will be treated as a grant and the remaining 10% as a loan.
On the other hand, a special incentives package will mean that 70% of central funds will be a grant whereas 30% will be a loan. Clearly there is no debate on this issue.
The special status would mean that AP need repay only 10% to the Center. It is ridiculous that the BJP can think a special incentives package would be more beneficial to AP. Also, what was promised in the BJP manifesto was a special status and not a special package. The Party should deliver on the same. That they will not is entirely another story.
