Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh shared his views on AP Rising in an article for Business Standard. He said that when states compete, India becomes stronger.
Lokesh recalled how Andhra Pradesh faced huge challenges after losing Hyderabad during bifurcation. With limited funds and no capital, the state still launched major growth projects like the development of Amaravati as a modern capital.
Sri City grew into an industrial cluster, and Tirupati became an electronics hub. Vizag developed a medical devices park, while the Polavaram project reached 72% completion despite setbacks like cyclone HudHud.
Between 2019 and 2024, growth slowed as Jagan’s government derailed the progress, Lokesh said. After the 2024 historic mandate, the focus shifted to fiscal recovery, institutional reform, and rebuilding Andhra Pradesh’s reputation while neighbouring states advanced. The goal is to make Andhra Pradesh a top investment destination with world-class skills.
The state now has ₹10.7 trillion in investments. Projects like Premier Energy’s ₹3,000 crore facility, LG’s electronics plant, and Renee’s hybrid energy setup are underway. These efforts aim to create two million new jobs, driving family welfare and economic growth.
Lokesh mentioned that ArcelorMittal’s Aditya Mittal ranked Andhra Pradesh among their top global destinations. Such investments boost India’s economy by strengthening supply chains, driving technology transfer, and expanding competitive manufacturing and services.
He said healthy competition among states drives innovation. Every investor assesses risk and reward, and Andhra Pradesh plans to lead through scale, speed, and stability. The state operates with the agility of a startup and the discipline of a Fortune 500 company.
On November 14–15, Andhra Pradesh will host the Partnership Summit in Vizag with CII, setting a roadmap for ₹10 trillion in investments. Lokesh’s message is clear when Andhra Pradesh performs, India benefits through jobs, innovation, and prosperity. When states compete in policy and execution, India wins.
And here’s my take in @bsIndia today – ‘When states compete, India wins’ https://t.co/kw6Nu1YP0n pic.twitter.com/tHN99FGe2d
— Lokesh Nara (@naralokesh) October 8, 2025
