Tata Trusts to develop 264 villages in AP

Hyderabad, Aug 24 (INN): In a a major boost to the government's Flagship 'Smart Village-Smart Ward' program, the Tata Trusts has signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Andhra Pradesh to develop 264 villages in Vijayawada constituency to work in bamboo cultivation, fisheries, health and nutrition and village development.

In an interaction with industrialists of the Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry Federation in Vijayawada today, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said that Chairman Emiretus of Tata Group Ratan Tata's credibility, simplicity adds value to this social program.

'Ratan Tata is a symbol of India and its industrial might. He has shown how to carry out ethical and moral business. This has made his Group sustainable,' he added.

Not only is Mr. Tata fuelling the start-up ecosystem, he is promoting and encouraging entrepreneurs and ideas that excite him, the Chief Minister said, adding 'Mr. Tata is driving India's start-up growth.'

This is the first time such a huge number of villages are being developed by a single institution/ Trust in Andhra Pradesh. ' This will set an example in the country as it will be menotored by Industry Titan Ratan Tata. I'm impressed with the background work and research Tata Trust has done on these villages,' the Chief Minister said.

Later, the Chief Minister asked Mr. Tata to visit Andhra Pradesh often and mentor entrepreneurs in the state. 'He has given ideas about social responsibility, industrial growth, health and sanitation.'

Speaking at the event, Mr. Tata said: 'I'm here to support the MoU signing with the state to undertake various social projects.'

Elaborating his conversation with the Chief Minister, Mr. Tata said 'I will advise him (Chandrababu Naidu) on bringing new industries and ideas to Andhra Pradesh. At the end of my career, I realize that money can't buy one thing'and, that is to create an excitement in your life. At this point of time, to be associated with Chandrababu Naidu (who has knowledge) is what creates that excitement within me. The new state will have every bit of support that I can personally give.'

In an interactive session with industrialists, Mr. Tata said shared his views on the start-up ecosystem and about the way he chooses to support-start-ups in the country. 'The kind of start-ups that excite me are those which do not emulate start-ups in the US or anywhere in the world. Successful start-ups are those which strike a chord within India and overseas as well as reflect the confidence investors have in them,' he told in response to a question from a young entrepreneur.

Explaining his views on the technologies that need attention in India on being asked by a woman entrepreneur, Mr. Tata said applications of technology that meet energy challenges, issues of clean and safe drinking water and health are the issues India needs to look at.

Member of Parliament Kesineni Srinivas is the person to bring the proposal to Mr. Ratan Tata to endorse Tata Trusts' initiative of developing 264 villages in Vijayawada constituency.