CM Naidu seeks IIT professionals’ support to make AP global knowledge hub
Vijayawada, Oct 3 (TNT): Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday sought the cooperation of IIT alumni, educational institutions and industry to develop the State as a global knowledge hub, announcing a Rs 500-crore Pan-IIT Amaravati Venture Fund to promote DeepTech startups and innovation.
Addressing the media after the Pan-IIT Andhra Pradesh Summit 2026 here, Naidu said the proposed Pan-IIT World Council in Amaravati would create one of the world’s largest academic and professional networks and help leverage the expertise of around five lakh IIT alumni.
He said the Pan-IIT Council would provide recommendations for the State’s Deep Tech Policy and support advanced technologies including quantum computing, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, space and defence, healthcare, agritech and water-related technologies.
The Chief Minister said the Pan-IIT Amaravati Summit 2026 Declaration envisaged establishment of a permanent Pan-IIT Amaravati Council in partnership with the Andhra Pradesh government and Pan IIT Alumni India, with the council serving as the nodal institution for DeepTech development in the State.
Under the declaration, a Rs 500-crore Pan-IIT Amaravati Venture Fund would be established to promote DeepTech startups, innovation and investments. The council would also coordinate with educational institutions, industries and startups to strengthen the State’s innovation ecosystem.
Naidu said 10 Industry Chairs would be established in universities and educational institutions in partnership with industry to strengthen research and skill development, while a network of 100 global IIT mentors would guide startups and aspiring entrepreneurs in Andhra Pradesh.
He said the summit would facilitate the creation of 100 startup mentors and help the State emerge as a global knowledge hub.
The Pan-IIT Council would also assist in updating academic curricula in line with changing technological requirements and industry needs and promote entrepreneurial skills among students from the high school level.
On quantum technology, Naidu said mini quantum test labs, including Q-Shiva systems, were being made available even before the proposed 156-qubit quantum system became operational in Amaravati.
He also said the quantum computer being jointly developed by IBM-TCS and L&T would soon begin operations in Amaravati.
The Chief Minister said Andhra Pradesh aimed to manufacture and eventually export quantum computing equipment, creating opportunities in innovation, research and high-technology manufacturing.
He said the State had set a target of contributing 50 lakh AI-skilled professionals towards the national goal of developing one crore AI professionals.
Naidu also highlighted initiatives aimed at transforming Rayalaseema, including the Global Horticulture Hub project, and said Reliance Industries had come forward to support the establishment and operation of the Indian School of Agriculture.
The Pan-IIT Amaravati Summit 2026 Declaration was released during the summit, with the Andhra Pradesh government and Pan-IIT alumni representatives signing the declaration.
TNT KM
