Lokesh hosts dinner for NDA legislators, their families at his Undavalli residence

Vijayawada: IT and HRD minister Nara Lokesh invited NDA legislators and their families at his Undavalli residence for dinner during the ongoing assembly budget session on Thursday. The first of its kind ‘Atmeeya Kalayika' (warm get-together) initiative aims to blend informal dinner diplomacy with structured follow-up on public issues, strengthening both personal bonds and political coordination within the alliance.Lokesh is said to have chalked out a Parliamentary constituency-wise plan to invite NDA MPs, MLAs, and MLCs, along with their family members, for relaxed interactions at his home. The first such gathering was organised for leaders from Machilipatnam Parliamentary constituency on Thursday. The evening unfolded in a festive atmosphere, with legislators and their families seated together for dinner, engaging in friendly conversations devoid of political debate. Lokesh personally greeted each family members by name, enquired about their well-being, and ensured the event resembled a family celebration rather than a formal political meeting.In a thoughtful gesture, he presented Mangalagiri handloom silk sarees, woven by artisans from his constituency, to the women attendees. The move was appreciated as a mark of respect as well as encouragement to local weavers. Legislators described the initiative as a refreshing departure from conventional political meetings, highlighting Lokesh's simplicity and affability. BJP and Jana Sena leaders expressed happiness over the personal connect established through the programme.What surprised many was Lokesh's meticulous agenda for the development of the state. He provided each representative with a written status report on petitions and development requests they previously submitted. The report clearly categorised issues that were resolved, those under progress, and those that could not be addressed, along with reasons. Several leaders remarked that such accountability and openness are rarely seen in politics these days.The tradition of treating party members as extended family traces back to TDP founder N T Rama Rao and was further strengthened under N Chandrababu Naidu. As the party's national general secretary, Lokesh appears to be carrying this legacy forward in a contemporary format. The initiative is expected to further reinforce alliance unity and enhance coordination in the state.