Union Minister Nirmala Sitaraman appealed people needn't give up their hope on Special  Status Category to Andhra Pradesh as Centre is sincerely working on it.

Nirmala Sitaraman: "Centre is determined to fulfill all the promises of AP Reorganisation Bill. Sanctioning Financial Assistance of Rs 2,800 crore is a proof of Union Government's commitment".

The Minister wondered how could Centre sanction funds for construction of proposed AP Capital even before the foundation stone was laid. She, however, assured Centre will sanction funds for New Capital and projects if the State Government approaches it with concrete proposals.

Ms. Sitaraman stated Centre has offered 47 percent share of its revenue to AP as its a revenue deficit state. She reminded the share is 5 percent more than what 14th Finance Commission has recommended.