Nara Lokesh Outlines Vision for Vizag as AI Hub, Vows to Attract Investments and Tackle Challenges

State Human Resources and IT Minister Nara Lokesh has unveiled plans to transform Visakhapatnam into a center for Artificial Intelligence, with ongoing discussions between the government and potential investors to bring this vision to life. The government is also in talks with industrial leaders to secure new investments and expand industries across Andhra Pradesh.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, August 29, after attending the District Courts Complex in a defamation case he filed, Lokesh emphasized that the NDA alliance had secured the people's mandate, and now awaits a verdict in the Visakha district court. The Minister appeared before the 12th Additional District Court for cross-examination, with the hearing postponed to October 18. The defamation case, which involves a Telugu Daily Newspaper, was initiated by Lokesh in response to a false report published in October 2019. He has demanded Rs. 75 crore in damages, citing the paper's failure to retract or correct the misinformation.

Lokesh asserted his financial independence, stating, "I always spend my own money for travel, accommodation, and food, despite holding a ministerial position. I have not exploited anyone like the YSRCP president," he alleged.

The Minister also touched on educational reforms, expressing concern over the decline in school enrollment from 45 lakhs to 35 lakhs. He reaffirmed the continuation of the Nadu Nedu scheme under the new name "Manabadi-Mana Bhavishyattu." Lokesh acknowledged the challenges students faced with the rigorous CBSE curriculum, attributing negative results to insufficient preparation and emphasizing the need for reforms in the education system. He assured that input from intellectuals and teachers' associations would guide these changes.

Additionally, Lokesh announced that the old policy for Fee Reimbursement would be reinstated, with a final decision to be made in the presence of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on September 11. He also revealed that the report by senior IAS Officer Sisodia on land scams would be reviewed by the cabinet, with actions to be taken against those involved in the fraudulent activities.

Lokesh reiterated his adherence to the Red Book, questioning why anyone who had not committed wrongdoing should fear it. He called for a thorough investigation into the recent allegations of harassment against a film actress, which had come to light.

Finally, Lokesh reassured that the TDP is committed to protecting the Vizag Steel Plant, with a future action plan to be announced following a detailed review.

Minister Lokesh concluded by emphasizing the government's determination to attract investments to Visakhapatnam, stating, "Since the formation of the NDA coalition government in Andhra Pradesh, many investors are once again looking at the State, which is a positive sign."