AP Pushes Major Projects in North Andhra, Investment Drive in Rayalaseema

Andhra Pradesh is working to emerge as a major investment destination while ensuring balanced development across all regions, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said. Highlighting plans for North Andhra and Rayalaseema, he outlined projects spanning aviation, steel, pharmaceuticals, information technology, renewable energy and ports. Addressing a media conference in Undavalli on Monday, he also reviewed the state’s investment climate, infrastructure development and implementation of welfare schemes.

Naidu said North Andhra would benefit from major projects, including Bhogapuram Airport, data centres, AI and IT hubs, a new steel city, a pharmaceutical hub and industrial development around Mulapeta Port. The government is also promoting the Space City, Drone City, electronics, semiconductor and defence sectors. Investments from companies such as Kia, Hero and Royal Enfield are expected to create jobs and strengthen the state’s industrial base.

For Rayalaseema, the government has set an ambitious target of attracting Rs. 1 lakh crore through the Rayalaseema Rising initiative, with the aim of developing the region into a global horticulture hub. Kadapa’s steel industry, gold mining, solar power, wind energy and other green energy projects are among its priorities. Naidu said industrialisation and employment generation would help the region overcome the hardships associated with decades of factional politics and improve living standards.

The Chief Minister said the government was restoring investor confidence and improving infrastructure after setbacks in the state’s reputation. Road conditions had deteriorated by 2024, but corrective measures were being implemented over the past two years. Through Real Time Governance, officials review 55 government services every Monday to assess performance and service delivery.

Naidu also highlighted welfare initiatives, including Rs. 25,000 assistance for fisherfolk, free electricity for handloom workers, and benefits for toddy tappers and Vaddera communities. The Annadata Sukhibhava scheme provides Rs. 20,000 in assistance, while the Stree Shakti programme has recorded 100 crore free bus journeys for women. The Deepam scheme provides three free LPG cylinders, and Talliki Vandanam covers all eligible children.

The state spends Rs. 36,000 crore annually on social security pensions, he said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to electoral promises. Naidu further urged political leaders to win public trust through performance rather than threats, stressing that democratic accountability and effective public service remained essential to lasting political support.