Lokesh Credits Naidu's Leadership for Andhra's Investment Boom
IT and Education Minister Nara Lokesh has firmly stated that development in Andhra Pradesh remains inseparable from Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's leadership. He made these remarks while addressing the Europe Telugu diaspora meeting organized by APNRT in Vijayawada.
The government is working tirelessly to transform Naidu's vision into concrete results, Lokesh emphasized. He pointed to the substantial investment momentum currently driving the state.
Massive Investment Inflows and Job Creation
Lokesh revealed impressive economic figures. He said Andhra Pradesh witnessed investment inflows worth Rs 23.5 lakh crore over the last 18 months. This surge is expected to create approximately 16 lakh jobs.
"The CBN brand is driving the investment momentum in the state. All that the ministers, including me, have to do is follow him, as his vision has never failed," Lokesh asserted. He cited the past development of Hyderabad as a testament to this successful vision.
Notably, the minister highlighted that Andhra Pradesh accounted for over 25% of the total investments attracted by India during this period.
Policy Clarity Attracts Global Giants
According to Lokesh, companies are choosing Andhra Pradesh due to clear policies and swift execution. He listed several major corporations proposing investments, including Google, ArcelorMittal, TCS, Cognizant, and ReNew.
He stressed that continuity in government is absolutely essential for sustaining this growth trajectory. Lokesh contrasted the current administration's efforts with opposition actions, referring to the YSRCP as "Team 11 which only play spoilsport."
"While we are trying to bring investments, they are sending mails to companies to ruin the investment-friendly atmosphere in the state," he alleged.
Decentralized Development and Diaspora Role
Lokesh outlined the state's development model, which pursues decentralized growth. Amaravati serves as the sole capital, while sector-specific corridors drive regional development.
- Electronics manufacturing in the Chittoor-Kadapa region.
- Renewable energy projects in Kurnool.
- Aqua industries in the Godavari districts.
- Quantum technology initiatives in Amaravati.
Addressing the Telugu community living across 20 European countries, Lokesh praised their efforts in preserving language, culture, and traditions. He called on them to become "brand ambassadors for Andhra Pradesh" by actively encouraging investments and business expansion in their home state.
Strengthening Ties with Switzerland
Earlier, Minister Lokesh met with India's Ambassador to Switzerland, Mridul Kumar. He expressed Andhra Pradesh's strong interest in enhancing trade and institutional links with Switzerland.
Lokesh urged the ambassador to encourage Swiss-based firms to consider investing in the state. He specifically mentioned companies like:
- Nestle
- Roche
- Novartis
- ABB
- Clariant
- Hilti
- Bühler
- Oerlikon
Furthermore, he sought academic collaboration between leading Swiss universities and institutions in Andhra Pradesh. Proposed areas for partnership include artificial intelligence, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, startups, and student exchange programs. Universities in Zurich, Basel, Bern, and Geneva were highlighted for potential cooperation.
