Nara Lokesh Speaks on Education, Skills, and National Unity

At the India Today South Conclave 2025, Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh shared his views on education reforms, skill development, and national politics, while also stressing the balance between Telugu pride and national unity.

Lokesh supported the National Education Policy’s three-language formula, calling the mother tongue the true foundation for learning. He clarified that Hindi is not compulsory under the policy and urged states not to turn language education into a political issue. “I am a product of three languages. Let’s focus on learning, not politics,” he said.

Speaking on his father Chandrababu Naidu’s vision, Lokesh explained the idea of a “Skill Census, not Caste Census.” He announced the launch of Andhra Pradesh’s Naipunyam Portal to map citizen skills, which will be used for training, industry linkages, and employment opportunities. He also highlighted steps taken to promote gender diversity in textbooks and curriculum, describing AP as a state working toward a talent-driven economy.

On politics, Lokesh reaffirmed that the Telugu Desam Party will continue its long-term alliance with the NDA beyond 2029. He promised unconditional support, positioning the partnership as a commitment to India’s growth and stability. “For us, Bharat comes first,” he declared.

Lokesh also spoke about identity and unity, stating that Telugu pride and national pride go together. He said “Bharat First” will remain the guiding philosophy of TDP and extended support to the NDA’s Vice President candidate in line with that principle.

Through his remarks, Lokesh underlined education, skills, and unity as the pillars of Andhra Pradesh’s and India’s future.