This article explores arguments in favour of and against the building of a single new capital as opposed to multiple capitals, in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Further, it probes various aspects central to this issue—the Sivaramakrishnan Committee on suitability of potential capital cities, decentralisation and the feasibility of three capitals, unbalanced development across Andhra Pradesh on ground and in popular culture, and prior growth models for Amaravati. This article argues the need for growth engines to eradicate poverty, similar to that in united Andhra Pradesh of the 1990s and 2000s. With Hyderabad being the capital of Telangana, Amaravati is where the fledgling state's identity and growth engine have to be forged afresh. This article questions the ability of the current state government in building three capitals post-COVID-19, in light of the drastically strained finances. This must be seen alongside plans for creating at least a dozen new districts that would require high administrative expenses. */ */
