Developing a knowledge-based economy is our focus: Lokesh

Minister for Education, IT and Electronics Nara Lokesh on Friday said the TDP-led coalition government in Andhra Pradesh is building a knowledge-based economy.

"Our goal is to grow the State’s economy to $2.4 trillion by 2047. Chartered Accountants should not only be contributors but also guides in this journey," he said peaking at Arthasamruddhi – 2025, a conference organised by ICAI (Institute of Chartered Accountants of India) here.Lokesh stated that every industrial revolution has two sides, but each creates new opportunities. "During the IT revolution, India was the biggest beneficiary, and now, we are poised to benefit from the AI revolution. As a political party, we are already using AI for digital libraries and analytical insights. In the Assembly, we will employ AI tools to ensure meaningful debates. Through AI-driven governance, we are striving to deliver better services to people," he stated.“One Capital and Decentralised Development” is our motto. Accordingly, we are prioritising balanced growth across all regions of the State-- automotive in Anantapur, renewable energy in Kurnool, electronics in Chittoor, CBG in Prakasam, Quantum Valley in Guntur and Krishna, aquaculture in the Godavari districts, and IT, pharma, and logistics in North Andhra.'He said CAs must help implement ethical and effective policies, play a key role in steering them in the right direction, and advance development. They must also serve as brand ambassadors of Andhra Pradesh.Lokesh said India must explore new markets to avoid losses from tariff wars. Giving priority to ease of living, "we are providing 700 citizen services through WhatsApp via Manamitra. We have signed an agreement with the Tony Blair Institute to enhance AI usage in governance. Join the working group we have set up and contribute your inputs and advice to deliver better services to citizens," he pointed out.

Big ticket investments

Thanks to our investor-friendly and speedy business policies, major companies such as Google, TCS, and Cognizant are coming to Visakhapatnam. ICAI is not just about balance sheets; it is a platform for building an equitable society. CAs are not just auditors of account books; they are embodiments of responsibility and accountability, he observed.