CM Chandrababu Naidu Lays Foundation for ₹1.36 Lakh Cr Steel Plant

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu asserted that Andhra Pradesh is the best destination for industries in the country, stating, “I, Chandrababu, am saying this with conviction.” On Monday, he laid the foundation stone for a massive steel plant to be set up by ArcelorMittal–Nippon Steel India at Nakkapalli in Anakapalli district.

Addressing a public meeting, the Chief Minister said the project is not just an industrial unit but the foundation for building a ‘Steel City’ that will transform the fate of North Andhra . He participated in the groundbreaking ceremony along with Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy , Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan , and IT Minister Nara Lokesh .

Describing it as a golden chapter in the state’s industrial history, Naidu said the project will bring in investments worth ₹1.35 lakh crore and generate employment for one lakh youth , both directly and indirectly. The plant, to be developed in two phases , will produce 17.8 million tonnes of steel annually . The first phase is expected to commence production by 2028 , with the first blast furnace targeted for completion by June 2030 .

He highlighted that within just 20 months of coming to power, the government completed land acquisition and clearances, demonstrating the true meaning of “Speed of Doing Business.” Andhra Pradesh, he said, has a vast pool of skilled human resources required for industries. He also noted that a Google data centre is coming up in Visakhapatnam and major firms like BPCL are showing keen interest in investing in the state. Through the proposed Ratan Tata Innovation Hub , the government aims to realise the vision of “One Family – One Entrepreneur.”

On infrastructure, the Chief Minister announced the construction of a dedicated captive port at a cost of ₹11,198 crore to meet industrial needs. Plans include a pipeline system for raw iron supply and a four-lane road connecting the plant to national highways. He added that North Andhra will emerge as a rare earth mineral hub , and with the launch of the Bhogapuram International Airport in July, the region will gain global prominence.

On the occasion, the Andhra Pradesh government and ArcelorMittal signed two key agreements . Company Chairman Aditya Mittal announced the establishment of a skill development centre and a state-of-the-art Metallurgy Centre of Excellence to train and employ local youth. The Chief Minister assured that youth from Anakapalli district will be given first priority in employment.

Calling it a success of the “double-engine government,” Naidu expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support to the state. He said Andhra Pradesh is becoming a hub for flagship initiatives like “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat.” He added that since the present government assumed office, the state has attracted investments worth ₹20.35 lakh crore , and with the support of Pawan Kalyan , the government is working towards development, welfare, and good governance .

Later, the Chief Minister, Union Ministers, and other dignitaries visited the Experience Zone set up at the venue and viewed the plant’s miniature model. Assembly Speaker Ayyannapatrudu , Ministers Anita , Kollu Ravindra , T.G. Bharat , Atchannaidu , Lakshmi Mittal , and other prominent leaders were present at the event.