People of AP need to judge two models a distinction between the previous destructive govt and the present NDA govt: Nara Lokesh

“People of Andhra Pradesh should make a distinction between the previous destructive government and the present NDA government. They need to judge two models of governance and ensure the state continues on the path of development by electing the NDA in successive terms, Minister Nara Lokesh said

Andhra Pradesh is setting its sights high, aiming to rival global hubs such as Dubai and Singapore in terms of infrastructure and economic development, the southern state’s minister for human resources development Nara Lokesh has said, outlining the government’s ambitious roadmap.

“We want to compete not only with our fellow states but also with countries like Dubai and Singapore,” Lokesh said to media adding several key projects are progressing rapidly under the current government.

Lokesh, whose father Chandrababu Naidu is the Andhra chief minister, highlighted the development of Amaravati as the state capital and the Polavaram irrigation project, describing them as crucial milestones for the state. “Capital Amaravati and Polavaram are on track now, and Visakhapatnam Steel Plant is getting revived,” he was quoted as saying.

“The BPCL refinery, NTPC’s green hydrogen project, and a railway line to Amaravati are happening with the support of the Union government,” Lokesh added, emphasising the collaboration between the state and central leadership in driving development.

Naidu's Telugu Desam Party is a part of the ruling National Democratic Alliance at the Centre.

The minister spoke about the state’s comprehensive development strategy, which includes investments worth Rs 63,000 crore in Amaravati. These projects, set to begin soon, are expected to boost infrastructure, connectivity, and urban growth. The Visakhapatnam International Airport at Bhogapuram, set for completion in 18 months, is anticipated to be a key enabler for economic activities in the region.

Lokesh also reiterated the government’s plans to make Visakhapatnam the economic capital of Andhra Pradesh. “The city is being developed to rank among the top five in India. We’re accelerating projects like the Visakha-Chennai Industrial Corridor and setting up a world-class data center in Visakhapatnam,” he said.

Recognising the importance of skill development for sustainable growth, Lokesh listed several initiatives aimed at addressing unemployment. “We’ve already established 26 skill colleges, one in each Lok Sabha constituency, and conducted job fairs across Assembly constituencies, which have benefited thousands. Our goal is to create over 20 lakh jobs,” he said.