CII AP hails allocation of `28K cr for VER

Vijayawada: CII AP chairman Murali Krishna Gannamani, Chairman has described that the allocation of Rs28,000 crore for Visakhapatnam Economic Region (VER) will be a game-changer for accelerating development in North Andhra.

He welcomed the State Budget 2026, describing it as a balanced approach between welfare commitments and long-term development priorities, reflecting an inclusive growth strategy.

He added, the budget creates a positive ecosystem for industry through infrastructure development, logistics strengthening, and regional economic clusters.

Allocation of substantial funds for VER covering multiple north coastal districts will transform North Andhra as a major industrial, IT, maritime, and services growth corridor, he said, adding establishment of AI-powered data centre ecosystem and technology investments, promotion of IT and global services sector expansion will position Visakhapatnam as an alternative tech destination in South India.

CII AO vice chairman S Narendra Kumar said the AP Budget 2026–27 attempts to balance capital development with large-scale welfare spending, positioning both as parallel growth drivers for the state. The allocation signals a renewed commitment to reviving Amaravati as the primary capital growth engine. capital expenditure is being used as an investment multiplier to attract private investment, services sector growth, and employment generation.

Dr V Nagalakshmi, chairperson, CII Vijayawada, lauded the government for giving a substantial allotment of Rs19,306 crore for health sector. She stated, healthcare continues to remain a core social sector priority, forming a major component of the state’s welfare and human development strategy.