Eliminating Dynastic (Varasatva) Politics for Sustainable Development in Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

Dynastic (Varasatva) politics remains a defining feature of Andhra Pradesh’s political system, particularly within the Telugu Desam Party and the YSR Congress Party. National studies show that nearly 25– 30% of legislators in India come from political families, and Andhra Pradesh reflects similar patterns at the Assembly and parliamentary levels. Since the 2014 bifurcation, the state has faced revenue deficits exceeding ₹20,000 crore annually and unemployment concerns despite welfare expansion. This study argues that reducing dynastic dominance can strengthen internal party democracy, improve accountability, and promote sustainable development through merit-based leadership and transparent governance.