Sribharat underscores port city’s potential in solar manufacturing, biotechnology, and data centres
Member of Parliament Mathukumilli Sribharat has unveiled plans to generate one lakh new jobs within Visakhapatnam. This ambitious initiative aligns seamlessly with the broader State government agenda to create 20 lakh jobs across Andhra Pradesh. The announcement came during an interactive session on Ease of Doing Business, hosted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Visakhapatnam chapter. Addressing industry leaders and stakeholders, Sribharat underscored the city’s potential in burgeoning sectors such as solar manufacturing, biotechnology, and data centres. Sribharat emphasised strategic project selection and execution as vital to creating a business-friendly environment, aimed at attracting investors and enhancing Andhra Pradesh’s economic stature.
Highlighting the collaborative spirit essential for success, Grandhi Rajesh, Chairman of CII Visakhapatnam, identified automotive and electronics R&D, general manufacturing, and port-led industrial development as pivotal areas ripe for investment. The discussion also emphasised overcoming infrastructure challenges, including upgrades to highway connectivity and the expedited completion of key projects by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
Environmental sustainability was a key focus, with proposals from CII including innovative solutions for handling cargo and coal conveyors to minimise environmental impact. Ensuring reliable utilities and a skilled workforce were identified as crucial factors in sustaining economic growth. Stakeholders stressed the urgent need for efficient water, power, and road networks, alongside the establishment of Skill Development Centres to meet industry demands.
The CII put forward proposals to expedite drug approvals through a zonal office of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) and suggested infrastructure enhancements such as a dedicated convention centre in Auto Nagar and district-specific parks for women entrepreneurs.
D Tirupathi Raju, former chairman of CII Andhra Pradesh, emphasised the potential for enhanced food processing infrastructure and proactive measures to boost global exports, emphasising a commitment to collaborative solutions for sustained economic growth. With participation from over 50 industry leaders, the CII session marks a significant step towards fostering a collaborative approach to regional development.
