Vizag to spearhead Andhra's AI era with Drone City, Space City plans
Vizag to spearhead Andhra's AI era with Drone City, Space City plans
Andhra Pradesh's CM Naidu unveils bold tech bets—quantum computers in 2 years, Drone City and Space City, backed by fast-track investments and Vizag's logistics edge.
At an event in Vizag ahead of the 30th CII Partnership Summit, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu laid out a bold, tech-forward vision for the state. He said Andhra will move aggressively into AI, robotics, and green energy, with a bold target: quantum computers produced in the next two years. The plan also includes establishing a Drone City and a Space City to capture opportunities in unmanned systems and space technology, leveraging the state’s strong logistics backbone—20 ports within 50 kilometres and three major airports.
Naidu pitched a shift from the old motto of Ease of Doing Business to a new mantra of Speed of Doing Business, touting recent private sector wins as proof that faster approvals can unlock major investments. He cited Reliance Industries’ breweries receiving clearance in September and a forthcoming deal for a large ArcelorMittal steel plant, with a deal valued at around ₹1.30 lakh crore expected to be signed soon. These examples, he argued, show how swift policy action can attract scale and confidence from investors.
The Space City concept would position Andhra as a hub for space technology development, testing, and private collaboration, while Drone City would focus on advancing unmanned systems and related logistics. The strategic location of Vizag—port and coastal connectivity—would bolster this energy and manufacturing push, complemented by green energy initiatives to power new industries. Naidu framed these plans as aligned with national goals to expand private participation in space tech and to drive sustainable growth through innovation.
During a Q&A, an Italian envoy pressed Naidu on why MSMEs should invest in Andhra over more established states. He responded by underscoring Andhra’s integrated logistics network, a growing cadre of skilled workers, and a government that emphasizes rapid approvals and collaboration with industry to accelerate project timelines. He pointed to a track record of IT-led growth in the region as a foundation for broader tech and energy ambitions.
Cover image source: CM Chandrababu Naidu On How Andhra Is Preparing For The Future With AI, Robotics, Green Energy 🔗
