Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones for multiple development projects worth over ₹17,900 crore in Bhogapuram, Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh. The multi-sector projects span aviation infrastructure, clean energy, semiconductors, and connectivity initiatives aimed at accelerating the state's development.
Key Infrastructure Projects
The centerpiece is the new Bhogapuram airport, which has been named after freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju. The Prime Minister described this airport as "the runway for the growth of Andhra and North Andhra" and "a launchpad for a brighter future for the youth of Andhra." This development is part of a broader aviation sector transformation that has seen India's operational airports increase from 74 in 2014 to 166 currently, with the UDAN scheme receiving ₹29,000 crore investment in its second phase.
Coastal Economic Development
The government outlined its vision to develop the entire coastal region as a Coastal Economic Corridor, involving modernization of existing ports from Visakhapatnam to Krishnapatnam and construction of new ports at Mulapeta and Ramayapatnam. This is complemented by extensive highway and expressway networks, including the Visakhapatnam-Raipur Expressway, and railway projects worth approximately ₹1 lakh crore currently underway with complete network electrification and modernization of over 70 stations.
Technology and Industrial Development
A significant semiconductor plant foundation stone was laid in Visakhapatnam, representing the government's focus on futuristic technology industries. The Prime Minister emphasized the need to harness local talent for domestic development, noting that global companies including Google (with a $15 billion campus announcement) are showing interest in the region. Additionally, the government is supporting a massive Pharma Park in Nakkapalli to position Andhra Pradesh as a leading national pharmaceutical hub.
Energy Investments
The Rayalaseema region has attracted investments exceeding ₹5 lakh crore in the renewable energy sector, contributing to the clean energy focus of the development projects. The Prime Minister highlighted that projects worth ₹2 lakh crore were launched during his last three visits alone, demonstrating the scale and pace of development.
Economic Vision
The strategic vision aims to transform the Visakhapatnam Economic Region (VER) into "the most prominent economic hub in Asia" through integrated development under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which unifies rail, port, and air infrastructure to optimize logistics, benefit farmers, and improve ease of doing business. The government's economic philosophy focuses on converting investments into employment, manufacturing growth, export enhancement, and ultimately raising household incomes and living standards.