Bhogapuram (Andhra Pradesh): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone, inaugurated and dedicated to the nation development projects worth over ₹17,900 crore at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh, describing them as a major boost to aviation, connectivity, clean energy, semiconductors and industrial growth.
Addressing a public gathering, the Prime Minister said the projects would accelerate the state’s development and strengthen the vision of “Swarna Andhra” while contributing to the goal of Viksit Bharat. He said the newly inaugurated airport, built on the land associated with freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju, would serve as the “runway for the growth of Andhra Pradesh and North Andhra” and create new opportunities for the state’s youth. Modi also announced that the airport would be named after Alluri Sitarama Raju.
The Prime Minister said Andhra Pradesh possesses immense potential to emerge as one of India’s leading economic growth engines. Stressing the importance of harnessing the state’s talented youth, he laid the foundation stone for a semiconductor manufacturing plant in Visakhapatnam, saying the Centre is focusing on futuristic sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, deep technology and electronics manufacturing.
Highlighting infrastructure development, Modi said the Centre is modernising ports from Visakhapatnam to Krishnapatnam while developing new ports at Mulapeta and Ramayapatnam under its Blue Economy vision. He added that major highway, railway and logistics projects under the PM Gati Shakti initiative would improve connectivity, reduce transportation costs and strengthen trade and exports.
The Prime Minister said Andhra Pradesh is also emerging as a major destination for investments in renewable energy, pharmaceuticals and data centres. Referring to the state’s expanding industrial ecosystem, he said several global companies are showing interest in investing, creating large-scale employment opportunities for local youth.
Modi highlighted the Centre’s efforts to expand aviation infrastructure, noting that the number of operational airports in India has increased from 74 in 2014 to 166. He said the UDAN scheme has made air travel affordable for common people while improving regional connectivity.
Expressing confidence in Andhra Pradesh’s future, the Prime Minister said the newly launched projects would strengthen the Visakhapatnam Economic Region and help transform it into one of Asia’s leading economic hubs, generating investment, employment and long-term prosperity for the state.