Foxconn, Kia, Cognizant and more: Hyderabad and Andhra’s industrial boom under Chandrababu Naidu

During his earlier tenures as Chief Minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu played a key role in transforming Hyderabad and Andhra Pradesh into major hubs for technology, manufacturing, and industry. He spearheaded the creation of HITEC City, which attracted global IT companies such as Microsoft, Oracle, Wipro, Infosys, and Satyam, and helped establish the state as a leading IT destination. Naidu also initiated Genome Valley, drawing biotech and pharma firms including Bharat Biotech and other life-sciences companies. His policies and infrastructure development facilitated the entry of multinational corporations and IT/ITES firms, laying the foundation for long-term investment and employment growth in the state.

Foxconn has begun production of Apple AirPods at its Hyderabad facility, initially employing around 13,000 workers. The company is also planning to expand its operations in the region to manufacture iPhone components and further strengthen the local tech ecosystem.

Kia Motors has established a major automotive manufacturing facility in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, turning the state into a key hub for car production. The plant produces multiple models and has generated significant employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly, for the region.

Cognizant is investing Rs 1,582 crore to set up a modern IT campus in Visakhapatnam. This campus is expected to create approximately 8,000 jobs, reinforcing Andhra Pradesh’s position as a growing destination for IT and software services.

Suzlon Energy is reported to have expanded its wind turbine manufacturing operations in Andhra Pradesh. While the company’s presence in the state is documented, specific investment figures, such as the often-cited ₹300 crore, have not been independently verified.

Google has announced plans for a large AI and data centre campus in Visakhapatnam, with investments reportedly running into several billion dollars. While the project is underway, details such as job creation numbers and the label “India’s first AI City” remain unconfirmed.

The Adani Group is said to be investing in green energy, hydropower, logistics, and agro-processing projects across Andhra Pradesh, including districts such as Kadapa. The total investment figure of Rs 18,900 crore is widely cited.

Raymond is reported to be planning a manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh with an investment of over Rs 1,200 crore. However, independent sources confirming the exact figure and timeline are not available.

Oberoi Hotels Group is said to have announced plans for luxury hotels at key tourism hotspots in Andhra Pradesh, including Amravati, Visakhapatnam, Tirupati, Gandikota, and Horsely Hills.

Microsoft has reportedly forged partnerships in Andhra Pradesh related to cloud and hybrid technology projects. While the company is active in the region, specific projects and investments facilitated by the state government are not fully documented.

Swiss companies such as Nestlé, Novartis, and ABB have expressed interest or established units in Andhra Pradesh. However, the scope of these projects and their direct collaboration with the state government remains unclear.