Naidu Focuses On Growth And Welfare
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday directed officials to ensure that industrial development directly benefits poor and middle-class families while chairing the 18th State Investment Promotion Board (SIPB) meeting. The board approved investment proposals from 50 companies worth ₹30,515 crore, which are expected to generate 29,677 jobs across Andhra Pradesh.
Naidu emphasized the need to transform the state into a major hub for ethanol production, semiconductors, quantum technology, artificial intelligence, data centres, defence manufacturing, and green energy. He also called for strengthening the Ratan Tata Innovation Hub and accelerating the development of Amaravati Quantum Valley. The Chief Minister instructed officials to provide affordable housing near industrial clusters and align educational curricula with emerging technologies.
Reviewing the aquaculture sector, Naidu intervened in the feed price issue and facilitated a reduction of ₹4 per kilogram, bringing the maximum retail price down to ₹108 per kg. A committee comprising farmers, industry representatives, and officials will submit recommendations for long-term price stability.
In the tobacco sector, he fixed a minimum procurement price of ₹200 per kilogram regardless of variety and warned against unfair practices such as low bids and unauthorized purchases. Naidu reiterated that industrial growth, farmer welfare, and economic stability must progress together to ensure balanced and sustainable development throughout Andhra Pradesh.
