Naidu Seeks IIT Alumni Help to Build Global Knowledge Hub
CM Naidu announces a Rs 500 cr DeepTech venture fund and plans to establish a Pan-IIT World Council in Amaravati to drive technological growth.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has called upon the vast network of IIT professionals to partner with the state in its ambitious mission to transform Andhra Pradesh into a global knowledge hub. Speaking at the PAN IIT Andhra Pradesh summit 2026 in Vijayawada, the Chief Minister emphasized that the synergy between IIT alumni, academic institutions, industry leaders, and the government would be the primary engine for the state's technological and economic evolution.
Highlighting the immense potential of this collaboration, Naidu noted that India's 23 IITs have produced approximately five lakh graduates who have shaped various sectors globally. He expressed confidence that leveraging this collective expertise could significantly accelerate the state's development trajectory.
Establishment of Pan-IIT World Council in Amaravati
A major highlight of the summit was the announcement regarding the establishment of the Pan-IIT World Council in Amaravati. This initiative is set to create one of the world's largest academic and professional networks. The Chief Minister noted that the high turnout of alumni from across the country during the summit is a testament to Andhra Pradesh's rising reputation on the national stage.
The Council is expected to play a pivotal role in several key areas:
- Curriculum Updates: Guiding the state in updating academic curricula to match rapidly changing technological requirements and industry demands.
- Entrepreneurship: Working with the government to foster entrepreneurial skills among students, starting as early as the high school level.
- Mentorship: Facilitating the creation of 100 startup mentors to nurture the next generation of innovators.
A Rs 500 Crore Boost for DeepTech Startups
To fuel the innovation ecosystem, the Chief Minister announced the creation of the Rs 500 crore Pan IIT Amaravati Venture Fund. This fund is specifically designed to promote DeepTech startups, encourage innovation, and drive strategic investments within the state.
The Pan-IIT Council will also provide critical recommendations for the state's upcoming Deep Tech Policy. This policy aims to support cutting-edge sectors, including:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Quantum Computing
- Semiconductors
- Space and Defence
- Healthcare and Agritech
- Water-related technologies
Leading the Quantum and AI Revolution
Andhra Pradesh is positioning itself at the forefront of the quantum computing race. Naidu revealed that mini quantum test labs, such as Q-Shiva systems, are already being made available. Furthermore, a significant quantum computer, being jointly developed by IBM-TCS and L&T, is slated to begin operations from Amaravati soon.
The state's vision extends to manufacturing and exporting quantum computing equipment, turning Andhra Pradesh into a high-technology manufacturing hub. In alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's national goal of developing one crore AI professionals, Naidu stated that Andhra Pradesh has set an ambitious target to contribute 50 lakh AI-skilled professionals to this mission.
Regional Development and Strategic Partnerships
Beyond high-tech sectors, the Chief Minister touched upon regional economic transformations. He highlighted initiatives aimed at turning the Rayalaseema region into a prosperous zone, specifically mentioning the Global Horticulture Hub project designed to reshape the area's agricultural landscape. He also noted that Reliance Industries has expressed support for the establishment and operation of the Indian School of Agriculture.
The summit concluded with the release of the Pan IIT Amaravati Summit 2026 Declaration. Signed by the Andhra Pradesh Government and Pan IIT alumni representatives, the declaration formalizes the partnership to establish the permanent Pan IIT Amaravati Council and the dedicated venture fund to strengthen the state's innovation ecosystem.