AP Attracts 25% of Industrial Investments: Lokesh

KADAPA: IT and education Minister Nara Lokesh on Wednesday said Andhra Pradesh is attracting nearly 25 per cent of the industrial investments flowing into states, underlining the growing confidence of investors in the state’s governance and policy framework.

He was speaking after laying the foundation for the `3,100-crore expansion of Dalmia Bharat Cement’s Kadapa plant (Line-2) at Chinnakommerla village in Mylavaram mandal of Jammalamadugu constituency. He performed the bhoomi puja along with Dalmia Bharat managing director and CEO Puneet Dalmia.

Describing the occasion as more than just an industrial expansion, Lokesh said it marked the deepening of trust between the state and investors. “The first investment comes with belief in opportunities. The second investment comes with confidence built on experience. When an existing company chooses to expand, it sends a strong message about trust in the state, governance and future prospects,” he said.

He noted that Dalmia Bharat has been a valued partner in Andhra Pradesh’s industrial journey for several years and the present expansion reflects its long-term commitment to the state. The minister said the project would generate employment opportunities for around 700 people, directly and indirectly, strengthening the local economy.

Praising Puneet Dalmia’s leadership, Lokesh said his journey from IIT Delhi and IIM Bangalore to becoming one of the country’s most respected industrialists was inspiring. Dalmia’s involvement in India’s early digital ventures reflected an entrepreneurial spirit beyond legacy business, he said.

The minister appreciated the group’s commitment to education, particularly its association with institutions such as Ashoka University and said it aligns with the state’s belief that human resources are the most valuable asset.

Lokesh said the state government is building a robust and investor-friendly ecosystem based on three key pillars -- speed in decision-making, stability in policies and service-oriented governance. These factors, he said, are driving companies to prefer Andhra Pradesh over other states despite offers elsewhere.

Highlighting sustainability, the minister said the cement industry faced one of the toughest challenges in reducing carbon emissions, and Dalmia Bharat stood out globally as one of the lowest carbon-emitting cement manufacturers. He noted that the company aims to become carbon neutral by 2040 and has already demonstrated leadership in renewable energy usage, energy efficiency and sustainable manufacturing practices.

The Kadapa plant expansion, he said, is designed as a future-ready facility incorporating up to 80 per cent renewable energy, waste heat recovery systems, co-processing of municipal waste, zero liquid discharge mechanisms, large-scale rainwater harvesting, electric vehicle-based logistics and AI-driven operational efficiency.

“Such projects set benchmarks for sustainable industrial growth and Andhra Pradesh is proud to partner with companies that share this vision,” he felt.

Referring to the local context, Lokesh said the people of Kadapa district are known for their hard work and self-reliance. He credited farmers, workers, engineers and employees for enabling industrial growth in the region. “Farmers here have made sacrifices for the future of their children. Workers and engineers have built the reputation of these industries. We can grant approvals, but trust in a company comes from the people. You have created that trust,” he said.

The minister said, “The government is committed to ensuring that investors face no hurdles in the state. While attracting industries is the responsibility of the government, it is equally important for the youth to be prepared to seize emerging opportunities.”

He urged young people to build discipline, skills and a strong work ethic to enhance the state’s reputation and attract more industries.

Lokesh also invited Dalmia Bharat to partner with the state in building a world-class skill development ecosystem. He requested Puneet Dalmia to support efforts in equipping youth with industry-relevant skills and to consider establishing a global-standard higher education institution in Andhra Pradesh on the lines of Ashoka University.

“Consider Andhra Pradesh as your second home. Before starting any new venture, give us a call,” Lokesh told the Dalmia leadership, reiterating the state’s openness to investments and partnerships.

The minister expressed confidence that Dalmia Bharat will continue to play a key role in the state’s growth journey, aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and Andhra Pradesh’s Swarna Andhra 2047 roadmap.

Among those present were Dalmia Bharat MD and CEO Puneet Dalmia, district collector Sridhar Cherukuri and industries minister Bharath Gupta, among others.