AP at forefront to become the global innovation capital: Satheesh Reddy, CII holds 2nd edition of innovation, R&D conclave

Andhra Pradesh is set to emerge as the global innovation capital with the government's thrust on R&D and spreading the right culture to improve the prevailing ecosystem, according to Dr. Satheesh Reddy, former Chairman of ISRO.

He was speaking at the 2nd edition of R&D conclave organised here by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), AP Chapter.

Dr. Reddy, Honorary advisor – Aerospace & Defence Manufacturing Hub to AP Government in his virtual address, urged the industry to dream of making India the next innovation hub of the world.

He highlighted that research & innovation has the power to make things change. He encouraged the youth to develop state-of-the-art products that are both high in quality and cost-effective for the world.

Reddy said the State’s strategic strength in its human resources makes it a natural leader be become the leader innovation and research front in the country.

Past Chairman, CII AP and CEO, Better Castings JSRK Prasad in his opening remarks spoke on how Andhra Pradesh is at the forefront of integrating AI into governance frameworks, encompassing intelligent agriculture, public health, and citizen services (WhatsApp).

Secretary, IT, Electronics & Communications Bhaskar Katamneni addressing virtually spoke about the government policies in the context of AI development in AP.

He said the government has launched the Innovation and Startup Policy (4.0) for 2024-2029, aiming to foster entrepreneurship, create 20,000 startups, and generate one lakh jobs over the next five years.

He spoke on the establishment of the Ratan Tata Innovation Hub (RTIH) in Amaravati, supported by five regional centres in Rajahmundry, Vijayawada, Vizag, Tirupati, and Anantapur focused to promote innovation focused on IoT, AI, rural innovation, maritime shipping, biotech, and medical devices.

Prof. Satyanaryana, Director, IIT Tirupati, set the context for the conclave.

Past Chairman, CII Southern Region and CMD, Cavinkare Pvt Ltd CK Ranganathan emphasized the importance of investing in Innovation and R&D.

He spoke on the crucial role AI play from patents to products as it clarifies discussions and interactions, build new thoughts and ideas and provides updated information. He spoke on the role information tools like ChatGPT plays in establishing instant connections.

Co Founder & Director, Skyroot Aerospace Pvt Ltd Naga Bharath highlighted the transformative impact of government reforms in enabling private players and making space exploration more accessible which enabled commercial private sector participation in India's space domain.

AI expert Sunil David said Agentic AI is being used to redefine innovation & strategy particularly in telecom & manufacturing industries.