Andhra Pradesh IT and Education Minister Nara Lokesh has stressed that stable governance is essential for attracting investments. He said continuity of governments builds long-term confidence among industries. Lokesh made these remarks while addressing the Pune Public Policy Festival organised by the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics.
He pointed out that policy uncertainty during the previous government hurt investor sentiment. Decisions such as the cancellation of power purchase agreements created fear among companies. As a result, several firms shifted their operations to neighbouring states. Therefore, he urged people to understand the importance of predictable governance.
Why major companies are choosing Andhra Pradesh
Lokesh explained that there are three clear reasons why global companies are investing in the state. First, he credited the leadership of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. According to him, strong leadership gives investors confidence.
Second, he highlighted the state’s focus on the “speed of doing business.” After signing agreements, the government treats projects as its own. Consequently, approvals are granted quickly.
Third, he referred to the double-engine government at the state and Centre. He said coordination between the two helps projects move faster.
Meanwhile, Lokesh revealed that a single Zoom call with ArcelorMittal CEO Aditya Mittal resolved key issues within 24 hours. As a result, the company decided to set up India’s largest steel plant in Andhra Pradesh. He confirmed that construction will begin in February.
Technology-led governance reforms
In addition, Lokesh said the government is transforming governance through technology. He noted that Manamitra WhatsApp Governance now delivers nearly 1,000 services. These services cover 36 departments across the state.
Moreover, the government has launched an AI-based skill census pilot in Mangalagiri. It is also preparing to shift land records to blockchain technology. This change will allow land title updates within 24 hours.
LIFT policy and IT growth
Lokesh said the LIFT policy has attracted major IT companies. Under this policy, firms creating 500 jobs receive land at just 99 paise per acre. As a result, companies like Cognizant have already entered the state.
He added that he personally monitors industrial issues. For this purpose, he uses 26 dedicated WhatsApp groups to ensure quick resolutions.
Quantum Valley vision
Finally, Lokesh described Quantum Valley as Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s dream project. The initiative will come up in Amaravati. It aims to position Andhra Pradesh as a technology hub for the country.
The project involves leading organisations such as IBM, TCS, and IIT Madras. Lokesh concluded by saying that a team of young ministers is working together. Their goal is to attract large-scale foreign direct investment into the state.
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