Aims to attract Rs.1 lakh crore investment

To decentralize industrial growth, the policy outlines specialized manufacturing clusters across the state:

Visakhapatnam–Srikakulam : Naval systems

Jaggaiahpet–Donakonda : Missile production

Kurnool–Orvakal : Drone technologies

Lepakshi–Madakasira : Aerospace electronics

Tirupati: Research and Development hub, with a proposed DRDO Centre of Excellence

metro india news  I amaravati

In a major push to transform Andhra Pradesh into a leading hub for aerospace and defence manufacturing, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday reviewed the draft of the state’s Aerospace and Defence Policy 4.0 (2025–2030) at the Secretariat. The new policy targets ambitious investments of Rs.50,000 crore to Rs.1 lakh crore over the next five years, focusing on advanced technology, innovation, and cluster-based industrial development.

During the high-level meeting, the Chief Minister stressed the need to align the state’s industrial strategy with India’s growing defence requirements and internal security needs. Citing recent military operations like Operation Sindoor, he emphasized the transformative role of cutting-edge technology in modern warfare and civilian applications.

“This policy must act as a catalyst for national defence preparedness and economic development. We need to foster a high-tech industrial ecosystem that serves both defence and day-to-day needs,” Naidu remarked.

One of the key highlights of the policy is a robust framework to support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The Chief Minister proposed setting up an annual Rs.100 crore corpus fund and integrating logistics subsidies into the policy to empower small-scale industries. He insisted on stringent quality benchmarks, enhanced branding, and value addition across allied sectors.

Officials informed the Chief Minister that Bharat Forge and MMW are preparing investments in the Madakasira cluster, with the foundation stone for new facilities to be laid shortly. India’s annual defence production market stands at Rs. 1.27 lakh crore, with the public sector contributing 73%, private firms 21%, and the remaining 7% through public-private partnerships. In Andhra Pradesh, 23 companies have already invested Rs. 22,000 crore in the aerospace and defence sector, generating employment for over 17,000 people.

Defence and aerospace advisor Satish Reddy participated in the review through video conference, offering strategic insights. Ministers Kondapalli Srinivas and TG Bharat, along with Commerce & Industries Secretary Yuvraj, were also present during the review.