Google to set up task force to explore tech tie-ups with Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu held a series of high-level meetings with global technology, logistics, urban development and academic institutions on Monday, the first day of his two-day visit to Singapore, and sought investments and strategic partnerships for the development of the state.

A key outcome of the visit was an agreement between the Andhra Pradesh government and Google to set up a special task force to explore collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing and digital governance. During his meeting with Google Asia-Pacific head Karan Bhatia, the Prime Minister outlined his vision to transform Andhra Pradesh into a major hub for artificial intelligence, data centers and digital infrastructure. He invited Google to partner with the Government to strengthen digital governance and real-time management systems through advanced cloud technologies.

Mr. Naidu also sought Google’s support for large-scale skill development programs in artificial intelligence, machine learning and cloud computing. He suggested expanding artificial intelligence skills and cloud certification initiatives and establishing artificial intelligence and cloud computing centers in universities and engineering faculties. The Chief Minister also invited Google to participate in the state’s technology-focused Sanjeevani healthcare project.

logistics parks

The Prime Minister also met representatives of YCH Logistics Group and discussed the establishment of logistics parks and a modern supply chain city in Andhra Pradesh. Highlighting the state’s long coastline, extensive transport links and growing industrial base, he said Andhra Pradesh offers significant opportunities for logistics investments. He also noted the state’s leadership in horticulture and aquaculture and invited the company to explore investment opportunities.

urban development

N. Chandrababu Naidu and Municipal Administration Minister P. Narayana (left) with UN-Habitat director general Anacláudia Rossbach in Singapore on Monday.

At another meeting, Mr. Naidu invited UN-Habitat Executive Director Anacláudia Rossbach to set up a Center of Excellence in Andhra Pradesh. Discussions focused on sustainable urban development, slum upgrading programs, municipal financing reforms, climate finance and cooperation in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals in fast-growing cities.

The Prime Minister met National University of Singapore (NUS) president Professor Tan Eng Chye and invited the institution to establish an international branch or satellite campus in Amaravati. He said the state was working to develop a world-class education ecosystem in the capital region and sought support from NUS in policy design and higher education initiatives.

Mr. Naidu also interacted with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Andhra Pradesh Business Delegation and urged Telugu entrepreneurs to promote investment opportunities in the State globally. He also held discussions with Singapore leaders and governance experts on administrative reforms and bilateral cooperation.

The visit forms part of Andhra Pradesh’s efforts to attract global investments, strengthen international partnerships and position the State as a leading destination for technology, education, logistics and sustainable urban development.

In his first meeting, the Prime Minister met Indian High Commissioner to Singapore Shilpak Ambule and discussed opportunities to deepen economic and trade ties between Singapore and Andhra Pradesh.

Mr. Ambule highlighted Singapore’s strong economic and trade relationship with India and expressed interest in expanding cooperation with various Indian States.

Potential sectors

Mr Naidu urged Singaporean companies to explore investment opportunities in Andhra Pradesh and highlighted the state’s strengths in sectors such as food processing, electronics, semiconductors and quantum technologies.

The Chief Minister said Andhra Pradesh offers significant opportunities in shipbuilding and establishment of Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities in the civil aviation sector. He noted that approximately 2 million acres of land have been brought under natural agriculture and the state’s farmers are producing first-class horticultural products with export potential.