Inaugurating the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Authority office at Chinakakani near Mangalagiri, HRD Minister Nara Lokesh emphasizes the need for a results-based approach. File | Photo credit: AFP
Andhra Pradesh HRD Minister Nara Lokesh said on Tuesday that creating 20 million jobs was a single point on the government’s agenda and urged officials to ensure that investment deals translate into tangible projects.
Mr. Lokesh was speaking after inaugurating the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board (APEDB) office at Mayuri Tech Park in Chinakakani, near Mangalagiri.
After unveiling the plaque and observing the facilities, Mr. Lokesh emphasized the need for a results-based approach and criticized the previous administration (YSRCP) for neglecting the council. He said that MoUs alone are not enough and must lead to real investment and job creation.
Mr. Lokesh recalled his Yuvagalam padayatra and said that people crave for work rather than welfare. Citing an interaction with a salesman who was looking for job opportunities for his children, he said such expectations should drive management.
Highlighting the progress, he said the state has attracted significant investment in 20 months and said Andhra Pradesh has secured ₹25 out of every ₹100 invested nationally. He congratulated APEDB CEO Saikant Varma and team.
Mr. Lokesh noted that global firms such as Google, ArcelorMittal, Tata Consultancy Services and Cognizant have chosen the state.
Urging officials to focus on project anchoring, cluster development and integration, he announced plans to establish a second steel city on March 23.
Published – 17 March 2026 19:51 IST
