Naidu lays foundation for greenfield steel plant in Anakapalle district
By G Janardhana Rao
Anakapalli: It was a big day for Andhra Pradesh as foundation was laid for the country's largest greenfield steel plant.
Addressing a huge gathering after laying foundation for ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel (AM-NS) India plant at Nakkapalli in Anakapalli district on Monday along with Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel HD Kumara Swamy Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu stated that the state is the best destination for industrial investments in India.
He said that the project marks not just the beginning of a steel plant but the foundation of a future Steel City in the region. The Chief Minister said the mega project will significantly accelerate development in North Andhra and contribute to meet the country's growing steel demand.
The AM-NS India steel plant involves an investment of Rs 1.35 lakh crore and is expected to generate over one lakh jobs, both directly and indirectly. The plant will be developed in two phases with a production capacity of 17.8 million tonnes of steel.The project includes the development of a captive port worth Rs 11,198 crore, a four-lane road connecting to national highways and a pipeline for raw material supply. The first phase of production is targeted by 2028, with major blast furnace installations expected by 2030.
The Chief Minister stated that such a globally reputed company choosing Andhra Pradesh reflects the state's investor-friendly policies and efficient governance.
The Chief Minister thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support, stating that the project aligns with national initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. He termed it a success of the 'double-engine government.'
The Chief Minister highlighted that Andhra Pradesh is witnessing rapid industrial growth across sectors such as Data centers, Food processing, Manufacturing and Tourism.
He said that major companies like Tata Consultancy Services, Cognizant, and Reliance Industries are investing in the state. He also mentioned the upcoming Google data centre in Visakhapatnam and significant foreign direct investment inflows. He stated that the state government signed agreement with AM-NS India to provide skill development training to local youth
The Chief Minister urged the company to prioritise employment for local youth from Anakapalli district. he said the project will transform the North Andhra region by boosting employment opportunities,
Education and healthcare access and economic activity. He assured government support for the timely completion of the project and reiterated commitment to industrial growth.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Lakshmi N. Mittal, Executive Chairman of ArcelorMittal, said, "We are committed to supporting the industrial growth of Andhra Pradesh and contributing to the country's vision of becoming a global manufacturing hub. Our plant will produce high-quality steel products, meeting the demands of various industries, including automotive, construction, and infrastructure."
Aditya Mittal, Chairman of ArcelorMittal India, added, "We are impressed with the Andhra Pradesh government's 'Ease of Doing Business' policies and their commitment to supporting industrial growth. Our plant will be a testament to the state's potential and will contribute to India's growth story."
Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, Minister Nara Lokesh and representatives from ArcelorMittal and Nippon Steel participated.
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