Andhra to soon turn into 'global destination': Chandrababu Naidu

Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh): Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday met a delegation of company representatives from the United States and expressed keen interest in making the state a horticultural hub, a global destination and a technologically equipped state.

Naidu addressed the delegation and said that he aims to make Amaravati a global city, inclusive of all cultures. He spoke of the achievements and goals of the government of Andhra Pradesh, mentioning Real Time Governance, grievance redressal mechanism, power sector reforms and ease of doing business.

The delegation was grateful for his support and appreciated his ambitious attitude to develop the state.

"Business is commissioned the fastest in this state, and investors are always confident. You are making history", US delegations said.

The representatives were from US India Strategic Partnership Forum, the AP Economic Development Board, Amway, Pfizer, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Pepsico and Veneklasen.

The Chief Minister said that organic farming is a sector with a large scope in the state, as the climate and soil are suitable for agriculture. He told them that they can start setting up the farms in Kuppam, and can take the help of a dedicated team from the government that is already working towards developing organic farming.

"Subhash Palekar is also working as a consultant to the government, and has practiced Zero Budget Natural Farming extensively", he mentioned, and encouraged the team to proceed with the formalities.

Naidu also approved the campaign, and asked them to start immediately. The team is ready with all the supplies and a custom-made vaccine for India. The dose, which originally costs Rs. 4,000 per dose, is given at a low cost of Rs. 150 per dose.

The vaccine is approved by the Government of India, and has also been used in many other countries.

The Chief Minister said around 12 services including diagnostic centres, medical equipment providers, sanitation facilities, mobile clinics and others, are working with the government under PPP alliances. He said that Shire will have their support, and they can start working on the MoU.

Meanwhile during the meeting, Naidu said that he wants to make the state the Horticultural Hub of the world. He said that the state is already doing extremely well in the field, and he is interested to continue promoting horticultural activities.

"I want to triple the income we get from horticulture. Our state already has a high variety of good quality fruits and vegetables. I aim to invest in the logistics sector for the field next", he said, and encouraged the officials to proceed working on the project.

The Chief Minister said that he wants Amaravati to be built with eco-friendly and pollution-free mechanisms. He approved of the establishment of a Noise Control Centre in Amaravati, making it the first of its kind in the country.

This will control the noise levels caused by traffic, metro train movements and others in public spaces.

Naidu will be participating in a round table investment conference in New Delhi on October 9. He will also be a part of the delegation's visit to India on November 17.