Prioritise issues to take up before authorities, MP tells CII
Key issues discussed included the need for infrastructure development, improved connectivity to highways for existing industries, port-led development, shipbuilding and repairs and logistics sector
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Visakhapatnam: Visakhapatnam MP M Sribharat on Thursday asked entrepreneurs and corporate executives to prioritise their issues and promised to articulate their genuine grievances before the appropriate fora.
During an interactive session organised by Confederation of Indian Industry, Visakhapatnam Zone, he said “my goal is to create one lakh jobs in Visakhapatnam in alignment with the goal of Andhra Pradesh Government’s to generate two million jobs across the State.”
The newly elected first-time MP said, “My ambitions are far greater than current constraints of reality, and promised to work transparently with all stakeholders to improve the ecosystem through a solution-based approach.”
Earlier, the CII members presented various issues and potential growth sectors for the city, emphasising infrastructure challenges and highlighting opportunities in sectors such as solar manufacturing, biotechnology, data centres, research and development in automotive and electronics, manufacturing, and port-led industrial development.
CII Vizag Zone chairman Grandhi Rajesh put forth multiple suggestions on behalf of the members to seek investments into solar manufacturing, bio revolution, data centres. Key issues discussed included the need for infrastructure development, improved connectivity to highways for existing industries, port-led development, shipbuilding and repairs and logistics sector and the urgent need for completion of the NHAI road expansion project to connect the port.
CII also recommended environmental measures, such as shifting dusty cargoes into covered storage and covering coal conveyors, to improve logistics and transport efficiency. The provision of water, power, and roads were underscored as essential for industrial growth. The lack of skilled resources in the city and surrounding areas was also highlighted, with a request for the establishment of Skill Development Centres to create employment opportunities.
Acknowledging the gap between the State’s budgetary resources and requirements, Bharat urged the industry experts to focus on projects that can be prioritised and implemented efficiently. He assured the creation of a positive industrial environment and brand image for Visakhapatnam and Andhra Pradesh.
CII also sought the establishment of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) zonal office in Visakhapatnam to streamline drug approval processes, clinical trials, and compliance matters. Suggestions included the creation of a convention and expo space in Auto Nagar, the establishment of women’s entrepreneur parks in each district, and prioritising local entrepreneurs.
