Kurnool, Oct 16 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed confidence that the 21st century will belong to India, asserting that the nation is on track to become fully developed by 2047, when it marks 100 years of Independence.
Speaking at a public meeting in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district after laying the foundation stone and inaugurating projects worth Rs 13,430 crore, the Prime Minister said the initiatives related to roads, railways, power, and trade will enhance connectivity, boost industrial growth, and improve citizens’ quality of life.
“Andhra Pradesh is the land of pride, culture, and innovation. With visionary leaders like Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, and with full support from Delhi, the state is moving rapidly on the path of development,” Modi said.
Highlighting recent achievements, PM Modi announced that Google will establish India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) hub in Andhra Pradesh, including major investments in data infrastructure, energy, and subsea connectivity at Visakhapatnam. He also launched a Rs 3,000-crore power transmission project, a natural gas pipeline from Srikakulam to Angul, and an LPG bottling plant in Chittoor, aimed at expanding energy access and employment.
Emphasising self-reliance, he inaugurated an advanced night vision factory in Nimmaluru and lauded Andhra Pradesh’s role in defence innovation and drone technology.
“The development of Andhra Pradesh is vital for a developed India. Kurnool will emerge as a hub of drone and futuristic technologies,” he said, noting that Orvakal and Kopparthy are being developed as new industrial centres.
Modi also announced next-generation GST reforms to save Rs 8,000 crore for citizens, reiterating that the “double-engine government” is committed to creating a prosperous and self-reliant India.