Andhra Pradesh is embarking on an ambitious journey to generate 20 lakh jobs for its youth within the next five years. This initiative is spearheaded by the state government, with a strong emphasis on bolstering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and accelerating overall industrial development.
Lanka Dinakar, the Chairman of the Andhra Pradesh Twenty Point Programme, announced that the state has already attracted Rs 9.30 lakh crore in investments within a single year. This substantial financial influx is a testament to the government's commitment to fostering a vibrant economic ecosystem. The focus on MSMEs is particularly significant, as these enterprises contribute 30% to the state's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and encompass over eight lakh units. The government aims to leverage this strong base to drive employment and achieve its "Swarna Andhra" (Golden Andhra) 2047 vision.
To achieve this ambitious goal, the government is strengthening coordination between MSMEs, the Society for Employment Generation and Enterprise Development in Andhra Pradesh (SEEDAP), and the Industries Department. This collaborative approach aims to provide comprehensive skill training and facilitate the establishment of industrial units, particularly in backward districts, ensuring inclusive growth across the state.
SEEDAP is playing a crucial role in the state's employment strategy. G Deepak Reddy, the Chairman of SEEDAP, revealed plans to scale up training programs significantly. Currently, 16,000 youth are being trained every quarter, and the goal is to increase this number to 60,000 annually. Additionally, the number of training centers will be increased from 103 to 250 by 2026. This expansion will ensure that a larger pool of young people are equipped with the skills necessary to meet the demands of the evolving job market.
Furthermore, 40 rural business units have been identified for development, with plans to increase this number to 300 within six months. This initiative aims to bring central government schemes to Andhra Pradesh, fostering economic growth in rural areas and creating employment opportunities closer to home.
The Andhra Pradesh government is also keen on promoting self-employment opportunities. The AP Self Employment Scheme 2025 offers financial assistance to unemployed citizens who wish to start their own businesses in sectors such as agriculture, transport, industries, services, and business. As part of this scheme, the Free Sewing Scheme in AP will provide free sewing machines and training to selected women, empowering them to boost their household income.
Recognizing the importance of a skilled workforce, Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh has directed officials to integrate the Skill Development Corporation, SEEDAP, and the Overseas Manpower Corporation into a single framework. This unified approach will streamline skill training and employment generation efforts, ensuring that young people are effectively connected with industries.
The government is also focusing on infrastructure-linked skill training, with plans to train youth to capitalize on opportunities created by major infrastructure projects such as the Bhogapuram Airport and the Amaravati capital. This will involve providing training in world-class construction skills, ensuring that local talent is prepared to contribute to these significant projects.
In addition to these initiatives, the Andhra Pradesh government is committed to creating a conducive work environment, particularly for women. The state is planning a large-scale "Work From Home" initiative, especially for women in the IT sector. This initiative aims to enhance women's workforce participation by offering flexible work options and promoting a better work-life balance.
The government's commitment to job creation is evident in its efforts to fulfill its election promises. Minister Kolusu Parthasarathy stated that the government has already fulfilled 85% of its promises within one year of assuming office, with the creation of 20 lakh jobs being the remaining 15%. He emphasized that the government is striving towards this target as part of the Swarnandhra Vision 2047, balancing welfare and development to ensure a prosperous future for the state.
