Andhra Pradesh Government and FICCI-FLO Forge Partnership for Women-Led Industrial Park
In a landmark initiative aimed at fostering women-led industrial entrepreneurship and driving inclusive economic development, the Andhra Pradesh government has entered into a strategic partnership with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry – Ladies Organisation (FICCI-FLO). The collaboration was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on Thursday, paving the way for the creation of an exclusive industrial park dedicated to women entrepreneurs in the state.
Signing Ceremony and Key Participants
The MoU was inked by TG Bharath, Minister for Industries and Commerce and Food Processing, representing the Andhra Pradesh government, and Poonam Sharma, National President of FICCI-FLO. The signing ceremony, held in Amaravati, was attended by senior officials, industry representatives, and notable figures from FICCI-FLO, including former national president Ujjwala Singhania and national governing body member Mourya Boda. This high-level participation underscores the significance of the agreement in promoting gender-inclusive industrial growth.
Details of the Women Entrepreneurs' Industrial Park
Under the terms of the MoU, the partnership envisions the development of a 30-acre women entrepreneurs' industrial park in accordance with the Andhra Pradesh policy for establishing private industrial parks with plug-and-play industrial infrastructure (4.0) for the period 2024-29. The park will be exclusively reserved for women entrepreneurs who are members of FICCI-FLO, with a primary focus on:
- Promoting enterprise creation and innovation among women
- Enhancing economic self-reliance and financial independence
- Generating employment opportunities and boosting local economies
This initiative is strategically aligned with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's visionary goal of "one family, one entrepreneur", which seeks to transform entrepreneurship into a widespread movement across Andhra Pradesh. By empowering women entrepreneurs, the state aims to catalyze grassroots economic development and social progress.
Integration with Broader State Initiatives
The women's industrial park project complements the Andhra Pradesh government's ambitious plan to establish 175 MSME parks—one in each assembly constituency. This larger initiative is designed to ensure equitable access to industrial infrastructure, reduce regional disparities, and foster a conducive environment for small and medium enterprises. The collaboration with FICCI-FLO adds a gender-specific dimension to these efforts, highlighting the state's commitment to inclusive industrial growth.
Roles and Responsibilities Under the MoU
As per the agreement, FICCI-FLO will play a pivotal role in mobilizing and mentoring eligible women entrepreneurs, providing them with essential support through capacity-building programs, training workshops, and networking opportunities. On the other hand, the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC), led by Vice Chairman and Managing Director M Abhishikth Kishore, IAS, will facilitate critical aspects such as land allotment, statutory approvals, infrastructure development, and policy support in line with government norms. This collaborative framework ensures a holistic approach to nurturing women-led businesses.
The establishment of this industrial park marks a significant step forward in Andhra Pradesh's efforts to promote gender equality in the industrial sector. By creating a dedicated space for women entrepreneurs, the state not only addresses barriers to entry but also fosters an ecosystem where women can thrive as leaders and innovators. This initiative is expected to have a ripple effect, inspiring more women to venture into entrepreneurship and contribute to the state's economic resilience and growth trajectory.
