TDP's three-day conclave kicks off in Hyderabad

The Telugu Desam Party's three-day conclave kicked off at Gandipet on the outskirts of Hyderabad on Wednesday.

TDP's president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated the 34th conclave by lighting the lamp, unfurling the party flag and paying tributes to party founder N. T. Rama Rao.

He also inaugurated a photo exhibition and a blood donation camp on the occasion.

Party's top leaders including its ministers in the central government, state ministers from Andhra Pradesh and MPs and legislators from both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are attending the conclave.

The 'Mahanadu', the first after bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, is set to pass an important political resolution elevating the regional party to a national party.

The conclave will take stock of the performance of TDP government in Andhra Pradesh and discuss ways to strengthen the party in Telangana, where it is in opposition.

The 'Mahanadu' is expected to form two separate committees for the two Telugu states.

Chandrababu Naidu's son N. Lokesh, who is expected to be entrusted with a key responsibility, was the centre of attraction. NTR's actor sons Harikrishna and Balakrishna also hogged the limelight at the inaugural.

The party has made large-scale arrangements for the conclave. TDP leaders said special arrangements were made to supply drinking water in view of the heat wave.

Gandipet was decked up for the occasion with party's yellow flags, banners, welcome arches and cut-outs of party leaders.

The conclave was inaugurated after a colourful cultural programme, highlighting the rich cultural traditions of both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

The 'Mahanadu' will discuss implementation of poll promises, granting special status to Andhra Pradesh as promised by the previous Congress-led UPA government, national status to Polavaram, Pranahita and Chevella projects and construction of new capital city for Andhra Pradesh.

The party proposes to introduce 34 resolutions - 21 for AP and 13 for Telangana.