In a significant announcement, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu declared that drones manufactured within the state played a crucial role in a major security operation. Speaking at a public event, he positioned Andhra Pradesh as an emerging powerhouse for advanced technological development.
Kurnool-Made Drones Prove Mettle in Security Operation
Addressing the gathering during the golden jubilee celebrations of Siddhartha Academy in Vijayawada on Saturday, Naidu shared a key achievement. He confirmed that drones produced in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh were successfully deployed in Operation Sindoor. This successful application, he stated, highlights the growing indigenous technological capabilities within the state.
The Chief Minister asserted that this is just the beginning. He confidently predicted that Andhra Pradesh will emerge as a major hub for advanced drone development. He emphasised that the focus is on creating future-ready technology designed to serve a wide spectrum of needs, spanning both civilian applications and strategic defence requirements.
Blueprint for a Tech-Driven Andhra Pradesh
Outlining his government's vision for balanced regional development, Naidu listed several groundbreaking projects slated for the state. These ambitious initiatives are designed to position Andhra Pradesh at the cutting edge of innovation.
The major upcoming projects include:
- A quantum computing initiative in Amaravati.
- A large-scale data centre in Visakhapatnam.
- A space city project in Tirupati.
Reiterating his unwavering commitment to developing Amaravati, Naidu declared that the capital city would be rebuilt and transformed into a world-class urban centre. He described Amaravati as the "people's capital" and drew parallels with great global cities like Delhi, London, and Chennai, which flourished along riverbanks.
In a clear criticism of the previous administration led by YSRCP chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Naidu stated, without naming anyone directly, that attempts to halt Amaravati's progress were "deliberate and unfortunate".
Education Reforms and Institutional Support
Connecting technological progress with educational foundations, Naidu stressed the vital role of institutions. He urged them to look beyond campus placements and focus on moulding students who contribute to nation-building.
He noted that revolutionary reforms are being introduced in the education sector and expressed confidence that the youth of Andhra Pradesh will actively embrace emerging technologies like quantum computing, for which many are already enrolling in specialised courses.
Praising the Siddhartha Academy for running nearly 18 educational institutions over five decades, the Chief Minister announced concrete support. He assured that the government would resolve the academy's long-pending land dispute. Recognising its past contribution of 15 acres of prime land near Siddhartha Medical College, Naidu announced government backing for establishing an AgriTech college under the Siddhartha Academy banner.