Overview The Water Resources Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Nimmala Ramanaidu , has reaffirmed that the proposed Polavaram–Nallamala Sagar link project will not negatively impact any state, particularly Telangana . He appealed for collaboration rather than contention, emphasizing the project's intent to utilize surplus Godavari waters efficiently. Key Developments Telangana's Withdrawal of Petition Following observations by the Chief Justice of India, Telangana withdrew its petition in the Supreme Court regarding the project. The Minister highlighted that the Andhra Pradesh government has consistently asserted that the project is designed for the optimal use of surplus Godavari waters and poses no threat to downstream or upstream interests. Andhra Pradesh's Stance Mr. Ramanaidu emphasized that both Telugu states should prosper together, underscoring Andhra Pradesh's commitment to harmony and mutual development. He noted that while nearly 3,000 TMC of Godavari water flows wastefully into the sea annually, Andhra Pradesh seeks to utilize only about 200 TMC . Historical Water Wastage The Minister highlighted that over the past 50 years , approximately 1,53,000 TMC of floodwaters from the Godavari have been lost to the sea. He expressed concern over the continued wastage of this valuable natural resource, noting that even in the current year, around 4,600 TMC of water has flowed unused into the sea. Comparison with Kaleshwaram Project Mr. Ramanaidu drew a parallel with the Kaleshwaram project upstream, which received approval after state bifurcation. He argued that similar approval should be granted to the Polavaram–Nallamala Sagar project downstream, asserting that Andhra Pradesh’s request is reasonable and justified. Benefits and Cooperation The Minister stated that utilizing floodwaters at Polavaram would benefit Andhra Pradesh without causing any loss to Telangana. He also recalled Andhra Pradesh's cooperation during the construction of the Kaleshwaram project by Telangana, expressing confidence that the completed Polavaram–Nallamala Sagar project would also benefit Telangana after meeting Andhra Pradesh’s requirements. Chief Minister's Vision Reiterating Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu's vision, Mr. Ramanaidu emphasized that both Telugu states should progress in a spirit of brotherhood, cooperation, and shared progress. UPSC Relevance This news article is relevant to the UPSC syllabus, particularly GS Paper II (Governance, Inter-state Relations) and GS Paper III (Infrastructure, Water Resources) . It highlights the complexities of inter-state water disputes and the importance of cooperative federalism in managing shared resources. Potential UPSC Questions Discuss the challenges and opportunities in inter-state water resource management in India. Evaluate the role of cooperative federalism in resolving inter-state disputes, with specific reference to the Godavari River basin. Analyze the significance of projects like Polavaram and Kaleshwaram in addressing water scarcity and promoting regional development.