H D Kumaraswamy is a blessing for South India: Nara Lokesh praises union minister
Raichur : Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh on Sunday heaped praise on Union Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy, calling his appointment as Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries a “fortune for South India.”
Speaking at an event held at Sri Krishnadevaraya Sainik School in Hoshalli (Ej) near Sindhanur, Lokesh said Kumaraswamy had played a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant.
“Visakha Steel is the pride of Andhra Pradesh. Due to corruption by previous regimes, the plant faced severe challenges and even reached the stage of closure and privatisation. At that time, I urged Visakhapatnam MP Bharat to meet Kumaraswamy regularly and request him to intervene,” Lokesh said.
He further revealed that Kumaraswamy had personally assured support. “When I spoke to him over the phone, he told me, ‘Brother, I will stand by Andhra Pradesh and will not allow the privatisation of the steel plant.’ He has stood by that commitment,” Lokesh added.
Highlighting historical ties, Lokesh said both families share a long-standing relationship. He recalled the period when N. Chandrababu Naidu played a key role in the United Front government while H. D. Deve Gowda served as Prime Minister. “Together, they implemented several landmark initiatives,” he noted.
Describing Karnataka as a “sacred land,” Lokesh emphasized the cultural similarities between Kannada and Telugu communities, calling them “like brothers.” He also used the platform to urge parents to encourage children not only to pursue careers in medicine and engineering but also to serve the nation as soldiers.
Referring to national security, Lokesh spoke about the sacrifices made by soldiers guarding the country’s borders. He also cited the recent Pahalgam attack to underline the importance of value-based education in society.
“Respect for women must be a core value, and real change should begin at home,” he said. Lokesh also expressed concern over rising mental health issues among youth, noting that increasing instances of suicides over minor issues are alarming.
Advising students, he said, “Children should consult their parents, especially their mothers, before making important life decisions.”
The event saw participation from students, parents, and local leaders, with Lokesh’s speech focusing on leadership, values, and national responsibility.
