"We Have Developed Exceptional Infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh": Chandrababu Naidu Shares Insights with NDTV at Davos
In a bold assertion, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu claimed that Andhra Pradesh has consistently excelled in infrastructure development, surpassing expectations. Currently attending the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, he aims to establish Andhra Pradesh as a prime location for global investments.
During an interview with NDTV's Editor-in-Chief Rahul Kanwal, Naidu emphasized, "What we have created is exceptional infrastructure," referencing significant projects such as outer ring roads and extensive road widening efforts. He believes these initiatives are still regarded as benchmarks even decades after their completion. "Even now, many states adopt these models only two or three decades later. This is the strength we've built over time."
Naidu pointed out that this infrastructure is not limited to a single city or region but has become an integral part of India's broader development narrative. "Now, it's part of India's story," he stated decisively.
When asked about competitive dynamics among larger states, especially as regions like Maharashtra express ambitions of international competition, Naidu rejected the notion of a zero-sum rivalry. He stressed the importance of collaboration between states.
"Why should we focus on competition?" he questioned. "India is a vast nation. We are all allies and colleagues. Everyone will work together. Ultimately, if one state succeeds, the entire country benefits."
The discussion also highlighted the incentives Andhra Pradesh offers to investors, particularly concerning major projects like Google's proposed data center in the state. Naidu clarified that incentives such as electricity concessions and GST reimbursements are designed with transparency in mind and do not amount to indiscriminate financial handouts. "I am not disbursing money from the public treasury," he asserted.
Addressing the contentious issue of land allocation, which often faces political scrutiny, Naidu cited his experiences in Hyderabad. He illustrated how land that was once valued at merely a few thousand rupees per acre in the mid-1990s is now sold for hundreds of crores.
"When you foster development, infrastructure, industry, and economic activity, land values naturally appreciate," he explained. The benefits extend beyond individual companies, positively impacting surrounding communities through increased land valuations, job creation, and ancillary growth. "We must grasp the principles of economics," he added.
"If you conduct everything transparently, people will accept it. It's discrimination that breeds issues."
Naidu reminisced about his initial push for IT-driven growth in the mid-1990s.
"Back then, I had no engineering colleges. I established them. I had no IT firms. I traveled to California, met with individuals, and invited them to set up operations here," he recounted. He noted that policies involving telecom deregulation, mobile technology promotion, and open-sky aviation agreements faced intense opposition initially but ultimately served the nation well.
"I faced criticism. Who is reaping the benefits today?" Naidu challenged. "The country is benefiting. The populace is gaining."
Reflecting on his experiences at the global events in Davos, Naidu remarked, "We must generate wealth to empower our citizens," describing the present era as an "inspiring and fascinating time" for India and states like Andhra Pradesh.
He drew parallels between the rise of Silicon Valley, once the go-to destination for Indian entrepreneurs, and the emergence of technology hubs within India. "Why is Hyderabad attracting so many people today? Because the ecosystem is thriving," he stated. It is precisely this ecosystem-driven approach that he hopes to replicate and expand in Andhra Pradesh, particularly in Visakhapatnam.
"These are economic activities," he emphasized. "A culture evolves over time, leading to employment opportunities."
Naidu proudly claimed that in just 18 months, Andhra Pradesh had secured investments totaling nearly Rs 20 lakh crore, with projections indicating the potential to create around 23 lakh crore jobs. He noted that additional investments could elevate this total even further.
He also touched upon emerging sectors like quantum technology, green hydrogen, and green ammonia, stating that renewable energy investments have lowered power procurement costs and will help maintain stable electricity prices.
