📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Prime Minister's Office
Technology
AP CM Chandrababu Naidu declares state as India's next tech hub, dismisses AI data‑centre backlash
✍️ Livemint
🗓 15 Nov 2026, 03:16 AM
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Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu announced that Andhra Pradesh will be positioned as India's next technology hub and downplayed recent criticism over AI data‑centre projects.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said that Andhra Pradesh is set to become the country's next technology hub, highlighting the state's plans to attract AI and data‑centre investments. He emphasized the government's focus on building robust digital infrastructure, including high‑speed broadband and renewable‑energy powered data centres.
Naidu responded to recent public concerns about the environmental and social impact of AI data‑centre projects, stating that the state has stringent regulations and will ensure compliance with sustainability standards. He added that the benefits of such facilities, such as job creation and economic growth, outweigh the perceived drawbacks.
The announcement comes as the state seeks to diversify its economy beyond agriculture and traditional industries, aiming to compete with established tech corridors in Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Officials said incentives and streamlined approvals will be offered to attract domestic and foreign tech firms.
While some activist groups have raised questions about land use and energy consumption, the chief minister reiterated that the government's policies are designed to balance development with environmental responsibility.
Naidu responded to recent public concerns about the environmental and social impact of AI data‑centre projects, stating that the state has stringent regulations and will ensure compliance with sustainability standards. He added that the benefits of such facilities, such as job creation and economic growth, outweigh the perceived drawbacks.
The announcement comes as the state seeks to diversify its economy beyond agriculture and traditional industries, aiming to compete with established tech corridors in Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Officials said incentives and streamlined approvals will be offered to attract domestic and foreign tech firms.
While some activist groups have raised questions about land use and energy consumption, the chief minister reiterated that the government's policies are designed to balance development with environmental responsibility.