Lokesh Invites Russian Investments In AP’s Space, Tech And Energy Sectors

VIJAYAWADA:  Andhra Pradesh IT, education electronics, communications and human resources development minister N. Lokesh on Thursday made a strong pitch for deeper India-Russia economic cooperation at the India-Russia Business Forum in St. Petersburg. He invited Russian companies in space, energy, aerospace, and technology sectors to establish operations in Andhra Pradesh and partner in the state’s ambitious industrial growth plans. Addressing the India-Russia Business Forum on the sidelines of St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Lokesh invoked the long-standing strategic relationship between India and Russia, in particular AP. He said Andhra Pradesh could play a pivotal role in achieving the ambitious bilateral trade target of $100 billion by 2030 set by Narendra Modi and Vladimir Putin. Describing India-Russia ties as a partnership built on trust, the AP minister recalled Russia’s contribution to India’s development through landmark collaborations, such as the Bhilai Steel Plant, Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project, BrahMos missile programme, and the Gaganyaan mission. “The foundation built over decades must now be expanded into new-age sectors,” he underlined.

Lokesh highlighted the successful Indo-Russian industrial partnership, including the RUSAL-backed Pioneer Alumina Project in Anakapalli and Rosneft-supported Nayara Energy. He urged Russian investors to explore emerging opportunities in Andhra Pradesh. The minister focused majorly on the state’s growing space economy. Referring to the launch of India’s first satellite Aryabhata aboard a Soviet rocket in 1975, he said the next chapter of Indo-Russian cooperation could be written from Andhra Pradesh, home to India’s only operational spaceport at Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

Lokesh unveiled plans for the proposed 2,800-acre Tirupati Space City, envisioned as a hub for satellite manufacturing, launch vehicle assembly, avionics production, and deep-tech innovation. He invited Russian space enterprises, including technology partners, propulsion firms and satellite integrators to establish a presence in Andhra Pradesh. The minister promoted Andhra Pradesh as a manufacturing and technology hub for companies seeking to participate in India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. He highlighted opportunities in semiconductors, microelectronics, artificial intelligence, drones, aerospace, naval systems and advanced manufacturing, particularly around the Advanced Manufacturing Cluster in Sri Sathya Sai district.

Emphasising on the state’s investor-friendly ecosystem, Lokesh cited its 1,053-km coastline, six operational ports, industrial land availability, reliable power infrastructure, and fast-track project execution. “We are known for our speed of doing business,” he informed the gathering. In conclusion, the minister urged Russian industries to view Andhra Pradesh as a long-term strategic partner. “On the ground, in the sea and across the stars above, Andhra Pradesh is ready... India is ready,” he declared.