Vijayawada:Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday emphasised the need for effective measures to control harassment of people over social media.

Participating in a Leadership Conference at Delhi, he pointed out that some criminals are using social media to humiliate women and politicians. Calling this the biggest challenge, he wanted a debate on how such misuse of social media could be controlled and who should be given the responsibility for controlling social media.

The Chief Minister underscored the importance of information as a valuable asset in today’s digital age, pointing out how artificial intelligence and deep technologies can be leveraged across various fields.

“With a smartphone in hand, we can accomplish our work from anywhere in the world,” he pointed out.

Chandrababu Naidu stressed the need for proper population management, especially in southern states, where declining fertility rate is posing a potential risk.

“Countries like China and Japan are already grappling with an aging population. We must take proactive measures to prevent similar challenges,” he underlined.

In this context, the CM recalled that he once instituted a rule that barred individuals with more than two children from contesting local body elections. “However, I have now revised that policy,” he remarked. In a lighter vein, he said: “We should now state that only those with at least two children will be eligible to contest the local elections.”

Chandrababu Naidu highlighted his party Telugu Desam’s history of shaping Indian politics. He cited its role in supporting governments led by V.P. Singh and Atal Bihari Vajpayee in the national interest. He affirmed, “In coalition governments, respecting differing opinions and reaching consensus is crucial. Our government is committed to this principle.”

The Chief Minister commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Describing Modi as a “strong and progressive leader who has driven revolutionary development,” he pointed out that India’s impressive 7.58 per cent growth rate is a testament to Modi’s governance.

He emphasised that India brand is very strong and the country has the potential to do wonders.

Chandrababu Naidu highlighted the significance of deregulation in the telecom sector and its positive impact on growth.