Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated, dedicated, and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth around ₹18,000 crore in Andhra Pradesh, describing the investment as a transformative step toward the state’s economic and social progress. Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister said the projects represent far more than physical infrastructure and will create opportunities for future generations.
Emphasising the importance of long-term development, PM Modi said, “₹18,000 crore in development projects is not just an investment in infrastructure—it is an investment in the dreams, jobs, and future of Andhra Pradesh.”
The projects include major investments in airport infrastructure, road connectivity, energy security, and transport networks designed to improve connectivity and strengthen economic growth across the state.
New Airport Named After Alluri Sitarama Raju
One of the key highlights of the event was the inauguration of a new airport in northern Andhra Pradesh. The Prime Minister announced that the airport will be named after freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju, honouring his contribution to India’s freedom struggle and his dedication to tribal communities.
PM Modi said every passenger using the airport would remember the legacy of the revolutionary leader and draw inspiration from his commitment to public service and nation-building.
He also noted that the government has adopted a new approach by naming major infrastructure after national icons from different regions instead of following older traditions.
Development and Culture Go Hand in Hand
The Prime Minister praised the creation of a world record through the participation of more than 13,000 tribal women and girls performing the traditional Dhimsa dance during the event.
He said the performance showcased India’s cultural richness and reflected the importance of preserving tribal heritage while pursuing rapid development.
According to PM Modi, Andhra Pradesh has demonstrated that modern infrastructure and traditional culture can progress together, creating a balanced model of development for the country.
Andhra Pradesh Emerging as a Growth Engine
PM Modi said Andhra Pradesh possesses enormous potential to become one of India’s strongest economic growth engines. He credited the cooperation between the Centre and the state government for accelerating development through what he described as a “double-engine government.”
He praised Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan for working toward rapid infrastructure expansion, industrial growth, and investment promotion.
The Prime Minister said the state’s development is progressing at a remarkable pace through better planning, stronger governance, and faster execution of projects.
Massive Push for Connectivity
Highlighting ongoing infrastructure expansion, PM Modi said Andhra Pradesh is witnessing unprecedented improvements in transportation.
He said highways, expressways, ports, airports, and railway networks are being developed simultaneously to create an integrated logistics ecosystem. Projects such as the Visakhapatnam–Raipur Expressway and modernisation of ports are expected to improve trade and industrial activity across the region.
The Prime Minister added that railway projects worth nearly ₹1 lakh crore are currently underway in the state, while the entire railway network has been electrified. More than 70 railway stations are also being modernised.
According to him, the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan is playing a crucial role by integrating road, rail, air, and port infrastructure to improve ease of doing business and reduce logistics costs.
Focus on Future Industries
The Prime Minister underlined that Andhra Pradesh will play an important role in India’s technological future.
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He referred to the foundation stone laid for a new semiconductor manufacturing facility in Visakhapatnam and said the project would strengthen India’s semiconductor ecosystem while creating high-quality employment opportunities for young professionals.
PM Modi also highlighted growing investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure and data centres. He noted that global companies are increasingly choosing Andhra Pradesh as an investment destination due to its skilled workforce, improving infrastructure, and investor-friendly environment.
He said these investments would help transform the state into a hub for advanced manufacturing and next-generation technology industries.
Investments Creating Jobs
Reiterating the government’s economic philosophy, PM Modi said investment remains the foundation for employment generation.
He explained that higher investment leads to increased manufacturing, stronger exports, greater industrial activity, and ultimately higher incomes for families.
The Prime Minister said the government’s strategy is to encourage both public and private investment to ensure sustained economic growth and create meaningful employment opportunities for the youth.
He added that Andhra Pradesh is already witnessing the positive impact of this approach as industries continue expanding across multiple sectors.
Green Energy and Pharma Expansion
The Prime Minister also highlighted the state’s growing role in renewable energy and pharmaceuticals.
He said the Rayalaseema region alone has attracted investments worth more than ₹5 lakh crore in green energy projects, positioning Andhra Pradesh as a major clean energy destination.
He also referred to the Centre’s support for the proposed Pharma Park at Nakkapalli, which is expected to strengthen pharmaceutical manufacturing and generate additional employment in the state.
According to PM Modi, diversified investments across technology, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, logistics, and manufacturing will ensure balanced and sustainable growth.
Vision for Swarna Andhra and Viksit Bharat
Concluding his address, PM Modi expressed confidence that the newly launched projects would play a vital role in achieving the vision of Swarna Andhra and Viksit Bharat.
He said the ₹18,000 crore development package represents an investment in people, opportunities, and the future rather than merely physical infrastructure.
The Prime Minister congratulated the people of Andhra Pradesh and expressed confidence that the state’s continued progress would significantly contribute to India’s ambition of becoming a developed nation by 2047. He said every new project launched today strengthens the foundation for economic growth, employment generation, industrial expansion, and improved quality of life for millions of citizens across the state.
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