Lokesh: Industry-friendly AP beckons investors

Information Technology and Electronics Minister Nara Lokesh has announced that Andhra Pradesh has created an ideal ecosystem for industries under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, offering special incentives to boost employment for youth.
On the final day of his week-long US tour, Lokesh met with industrialists at a prominent hotel in New York City. He detailed the benefits and facilities Andhra Pradesh offers for setting up industrial units, noting that the Economic Development Board is working efficiently to ensure quick approvals for industries with ready blueprints.
“Andhra Pradesh provides a unique, favorable environment for industries like no other state in India,” Lokesh emphasized.
The state boasts extensive road connectivity and a coastal network of 974 km, with solid air connectivity, Lokesh said. He informed the industrialists that an international airport would be operational at Bhogapuram in 18 months, transforming the profile of North Andhra. Additionally, four new ports at Mulapet, Kakinada Gateway, Machilipatnam, and Ramayapatnam are nearing completion.
Lokesh explained that the State government has conducted a skill census, the first of its kind in the country, to ensure a skilled workforce is available for various industries. The curriculum in universities and colleges is being updated to equip students with industry-relevant skills. He also shared plans to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) university in Amaravati, which aims to produce AI experts with global standards.
Lokesh encouraged the industrialists to invest in Andhra Pradesh, saying, “The State is progressing on a forward-looking path, and you can be partners in this growth.” The meeting was attended by CD&R Senior Advisor Tom Franco, Rupert International CEO Tod Rupert, and several other leading industrialists.