N. Chandrababu Naidu, Indian politician, 13th Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh

Nara Chandrababu Naidu (Telugu pronunciation: [naːraː tʃɐnd̪ɾɐbaːbu naːjuɖu]), born on April 20, 1950, is a prominent Indian politician who has significantly shaped the political and economic landscape of Andhra Pradesh for decades. Currently, he serves as the Leader of Opposition in the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly, a role that keeps him at the forefront of the state's political discourse.

A Distinguished Political Career

Naidu’s political journey is marked by a remarkable tenure as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, making him the longest-serving Chief Minister of the state with a cumulative 14 years in office. His leadership span includes two distinct periods:

• From 1995 to 2004, he served as Chief Minister of the undivided Andhra Pradesh, a period during which he earned a reputation for his focus on economic development and technological advancement, particularly in the then-capital city of Hyderabad, now part of Telangana.
• Following the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014, he once again assumed the mantle of Chief Minister, serving from 2014 to 2019. In this pivotal role, he became the first Chief Minister of the newly reorganised Andhra Pradesh, tasked with rebuilding the state’s economy and infrastructure from scratch, establishing a new administrative capital, and guiding its post-division development.

Beyond his terms as Chief Minister, Naidu has also held the position of Leader of Opposition in the united Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly from 2004 to 2014, demonstrating his consistent presence and influence in state politics. He is also the National President of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), a regional political party with a strong presence and historical significance in Andhra Pradesh.

Visionary Leadership and National Recognition

Throughout his career, Nara Chandrababu Naidu has been recognised globally for his forward-thinking policies, particularly his emphasis on information technology and governance. His efforts to transform Andhra Pradesh into an IT hub earned him widespread acclaim, leading to numerous prestigious awards and accolades:

• IT Indian of the Millennium from India Today, highlighting his pioneering role in India's IT revolution.
• Business Person of the Year by The Economic Times, acknowledging his contributions to economic growth and reform.
• South Asian of the Year from Time Asia, a testament to his regional influence and leadership.
• Membership in the World Economic Forum's Dream Cabinet, signifying his status as a global thought leader.

His reputation as a technology evangelist was further cemented when he chaired the National IT Panel under the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, where he played a crucial role in shaping India's national IT strategy. Profit, Oracle Corporation's monthly magazine, notably described him as one of the "hidden seven" working wonders of the world, underscoring his innovative approach to governance and development.

In 2000, the prestigious US business school, the Kellogg School of Management, offered him an honorary professorship, recognising his administrative acumen and leadership. Furthermore, his commitment to agricultural development saw him as the Chairman of the National Task Force on Micro-irrigation, constituted by the Government of India's Ministry of Agriculture in 2003 to promote efficient water usage in farming. More recently, in 2016, the federal government appointed him as the head of a 13-member Committee of Chief Ministers tasked with promoting digital payment systems and financial inclusion across India, a critical initiative for the nation's economic modernization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Nara Chandrababu Naidu's current political role?

He is currently the Leader of Opposition in the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly.

How many times has Nara Chandrababu Naidu served as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh?

He has served as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh during two separate periods: from 1995 to 2004 (for undivided Andhra Pradesh) and from 2014 to 2019 (as the first Chief Minister of the bifurcated Andhra Pradesh). This totals 14 years in office, making him the longest-serving Chief Minister of the state.

Which political party does Nara Chandrababu Naidu belong to?

He is the National President of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP).

What are some of Nara Chandrababu Naidu's notable achievements or recognitions?

He has received numerous accolades, including IT Indian of the Millennium from India Today, Business Person of the Year by The Economic Times, and South Asian of the Year from Time Asia. He also chaired the National IT Panel and the National Task Force on Micro-irrigation, and led a Committee of Chief Ministers on digital payments and financial inclusion.

What is the significance of his term as Chief Minister from 2014 to 2019?

During this period, he was the first Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh after its division, leading the state through a challenging phase of rebuilding and establishing new administrative structures and development strategies for the newly formed state.