Lokesh promises $100 billion investment in AP’s data revolution

By The Capital

On 30 Oct 2024 15:51:04

Minister for IT, Electronics, and HRD Nara Lokesh announced significant plans for Andhra Pradesh during his address at the IT Serv Alliance Synergy conference, highlighting an anticipated investment of $300 billion in data services across India. Lokesh emphasized that the State’s goal is to secure $100 billion of this investment to elevate its development on a global scale.

At the conference, which saw participation from 2,300 industrialists across 23 countries, Lokesh articulated the State’s vision of leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance governance, education, and healthcare. “We aim to provide better services through effective use of AI,” he stated, underscoring a commitment to solving long-term governance challenges.

Referencing the recent catastrophic floods in the Krishna River, he detailed how drones initially used for agriculture were repurposed to assist flood victims, showcasing the innovative spirit of Andhra Pradesh. Lokesh also mentioned the State’s intention to establish an AI university, aiming to produce internationally competitive professionals.

Reflecting on the past five years, Lokesh described them as a “dark era” for Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, who faced imprisonment for a crime he did not commit. “People will witness a new Chandrababu Naidu from now on,” he said, highlighting the significant support demonstrated by over 45,000 attendees at a recent program in Hyderabad.

Lokesh shared his political journey, recounting his decision to contest from Mangalagiri, a constituency he had previously lost. “I always stay among the people, and as a result, I won with a majority of 91,000 votes in the recent elections,” he noted.

When asked about his future in national politics, he stated, “People will decide my political future.” Emphasizing his commitment to education reform, Lokesh expressed the challenges of contemporary politics, advising aspiring entrepreneurs to ensure financial stability before entering the political arena.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to decentralized development, with plans to make Visakhapatnam an IT hub as TCS operations are set to begin soon. He also addressed agricultural investments, advising farmers to cultivate internationally in-demand varieties while promoting food processing industries to ensure fair prices for farmers.