Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently declared that the grand vision of a ‘Developed India’ (Viksit Bharat) can only be fully realized through the sustained growth and prosperity of a ‘Developed Andhra Pradesh’ (Viksit Andhra Pradesh). His statements came during a significant visit to the state on Thursday.
Kicking off his visit by offering prayers at the revered Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy temple in Srisailam, PM Modi then proceeded to Kurnool. There, he laid the groundwork and officially launched an array of crucial development projects, collectively valued at a staggering ₹13,430 crore.
During a lively public address at Nannur, on the outskirts of Kurnool, the Prime Minister underscored the critical need for clear leadership and direction in Andhra Pradesh. He expressed confidence in the state’s current leadership, stating, “With Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan at the helm, Andhra Pradesh boasts visionary leadership, backed by the unwavering support of the Central government.”
PM Modi highlighted the impressive progress Andhra Pradesh has made over the past 16 months under the joint governance of the NDA at both the Centre and state levels. He emphasized the collaborative spirit, noting, “New Delhi and Amaravati are working hand-in-hand to ensure accelerated growth for the state. Our aim is to see India as a developed nation by 2047, firmly believing that the 21st century belongs to India and its 140 crore citizens.”
These newly inaugurated projects span vital sectors including roads, electricity, railways, highways, and trade. The Prime Minister affirmed that these initiatives are designed to significantly enhance connectivity across Andhra Pradesh, spur industrial expansion, and ultimately improve the quality of life for its residents.
Andhra Pradesh, with its technologically adept youth, is poised for a digital leap. PM Modi announced that this innate potential is being actively nurtured under the NDA government. He revealed that Google is setting up India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Hub in the state, a monumental undertaking that will integrate advanced AI infrastructure, robust data center capabilities, substantial energy sources, and an expansive optic fiber network. This ambitious investment from Google will also include the creation of a new International Subsea Gateway, featuring multiple international subsea cables extending to Visakhapatnam, significantly boosting global digital connectivity.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of regional growth, particularly for Rayalaseema. He assured that the projects launched in Kurnool would unlock fresh avenues for employment and prosperity across all districts in the Rayalaseema region.
He articulated that the world now perceives India as the premier manufacturing hub of the 21st century, a testament to the success of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative.
Boosting India’s Defence Capabilities
Andhra Pradesh is emerging as a crucial contributor to the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision, particularly in defense. PM Modi proudly announced the establishment of an Advanced Night Vision factory in Nimmaluru. This state-of-the-art facility will significantly bolster India’s capacity to produce cutting-edge night vision equipment, missile sensors, and advanced drone guard systems, paving the way for increased defense exports.
Furthermore, in alignment with the Andhra Pradesh government’s goal to transform Kurnool into a major drone hub, PM Modi noted that this burgeoning drone industry would give rise to numerous new sectors centered on futuristic technologies. He cited the triumphant ‘Operation Sindoor’, which successfully utilized drones, as an example of Kurnool’s potential to become a national leader in the drone sector.
“Super GST – Super Savings” Initiative
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to citizen-centric development, PM Modi commended the “GST Bachat Utsav” spearheaded by Minister Nara Lokesh. He lauded the successful launch of the “Super GST – Super Savings” campaign, which is anticipated to generate savings exceeding ₹8,000 crore for the people of Andhra Pradesh through advanced GST reforms. He encouraged celebrating this “GST Savings Festival” in harmony with the ‘Vocal for Local’ pledge, promoting local businesses and products.
The event was graced by the presence of Andhra Pradesh Governor Syed Abdul Nazeer, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan, and Union Cabinet Ministers K. Rammohan Naidu, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, and Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma.