The North News
Andhra Pradesh, October 16
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth ₹13,430 crore in Kurnool, calling it a “new era of growth” for Andhra Pradesh. Addressing a large gathering, Modi invoked blessings from Lord Narasimha Swamy of Ahobilam, Shri Mahanandishwara Swamy of Mahanandi and Guru Shri Raghavendra Swamy of Mantralayam. He also paid homage to Shaivite saints Allama Prabhu and Akkamahadevi and freedom fighters Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy Garu and Hari Sarvottama Rao.
Highlighting Andhra Pradesh’s cultural richness and innovation potential, Modi said the state “needs the right vision and leadership.” He praised leaders N. Chandrababu Naidu and Pawan Kalyan, noting that both state and Centre were working together for rapid progress. “By 2047, India will be a developed nation, and Andhra Pradesh will play a key role in that journey,” he said.
The projects inaugurated include major road, power, railway, and trade infrastructure to improve connectivity and ease of living. Modi launched a ₹3,000 crore transmission project, an LPG bottling plant in Chittoor, and a natural gas pipeline from Srikakulam to Angul. These are expected to boost industrial growth and employment.
Modi pointed to India’s energy transformation, noting that per capita power consumption has risen from below 1,000 units a decade ago to 1,400 units today, with universal village electrification achieved.
The Prime Minister also announced a major technological leap: Google will set up India’s first Artificial Intelligence Hub in Visakhapatnam, including a subsea international gateway and AI infrastructure to enhance global connectivity. “This will make Visakhapatnam a key hub for AI and digital innovation,” Modi said.
He added that the projects would open new opportunities for employment and prosperity, especially in the Rayalaseema region, accelerating Andhra Pradesh’s industrial growth.
