CII Leaders Applaud Andhra Pradesh's 2026 Budget for Balanced Growth Approach
Industry leaders from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Andhra Pradesh chapter have warmly welcomed the state's budget for the fiscal year 2026, describing it as a meticulously balanced document that harmonizes welfare commitments with long-term developmental priorities. This strategic approach is seen as a cornerstone for fostering inclusive growth across the region.
Creating a Positive Ecosystem for Industry
CII AP Chairman Murali Krishna Gannamani emphasized that the budget is instrumental in creating a highly positive ecosystem for industrial advancement. He pointed to significant provisions for infrastructure development, the strengthening of logistics networks, and the establishment of regional economic clusters as key drivers. "The budget reflects a clear vision to bridge immediate welfare needs with sustainable economic progress, ensuring no segment of society is left behind," Gannamani stated.
A landmark allocation of Rs 28,000 crore has been designated for the ambitious Visakhapatnam Economic Region. This massive project is set to cover multiple districts in North Andhra, with the potential to transform the area into a major corridor for industrial activity, information technology, maritime services, and various other service sectors.
Parallel Growth Drivers: Capital and Welfare
CII AP Vice Chairman S Narendra Kumar noted that the budget makes a concerted effort to balance capital development with extensive welfare spending, positioning both as parallel and complementary engines for the state's growth. "This dual focus is strategic. Capital expenditure acts as a powerful investment multiplier, attracting private capital, spurring growth in the services sector, and generating substantial employment opportunities," Kumar explained.
He further highlighted that the budgetary signals indicate a renewed commitment to revitalizing Amaravati as the primary capital and a central growth engine for Andhra Pradesh's future economic landscape.
Substantial Boost to Healthcare Infrastructure
In the social sector, CII Vijayawada chairperson Dr. V Nagalakshmi lauded the government for its substantial allocation of Rs 19,306 crores to the health sector. She affirmed that healthcare continues to be a core social priority and a major component of the state's overarching welfare and human development strategy.
"This enhanced budgetary allocation reinforces the government's unwavering commitment to providing accessible and affordable healthcare for all citizens," Dr. Nagalakshmi said. She detailed that the funds will support sustained investments in critical areas including:
- Expansion and modernization of medical infrastructure
- Strengthening of primary healthcare services
- Development of human resources within the healthcare system
This comprehensive investment is expected to significantly improve service delivery and fortify the state's entire public health ecosystem, ensuring better health outcomes for the population.
The collective response from CII leadership underscores a broad consensus that the Andhra Pradesh budget for 2026 is a forward-looking financial blueprint. It strategically allocates resources to fuel industrial transformation through mega-projects like the Visakhapatnam Economic Region while simultaneously deepening investments in vital social sectors like healthcare, thereby charting a course for holistic and sustainable development.
