The Andhra Pradesh state cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, has approved the ambitious 'Amaravati Eye' project, a giant observation wheel inspired by the iconic London Eye. The project is a significant step towards transforming Amaravati into a world-class capital city and is expected to become a landmark tourist attraction on the banks of the Krishna River.
Key Cabinet Decisions
Information and Public Relations Minister K Parthasaradhi informed the media that the cabinet approved inviting competitive tenders and requests for proposals (RFPs) for developing the Amaravati Eye under the design, build, finance, operate and transfer (DBFOT) model. The project will be developed on nearly six acres of APCRDA land along the Krishna riverfront with a concession period of 30 years.
Beach Shacks and Tourism
The cabinet also approved the draft excise policy guidelines for beach shacks. Initially, pilot projects will be launched at two locations each in Visakhapatnam and Chirala. Based on the outcome, the model will be expanded to other coastal destinations to promote tourism and create local employment opportunities.
Aviation Policy 2026-31
The Andhra Pradesh Aviation Policy 2026-31 was approved, aiming to transform the state's aviation ecosystem. The policy targets increasing passenger handling capacity from 6.2 million to over 30 million by 2035 and boosting air cargo volumes from 6,240 metric tonnes to 4.27 lakh metric tonnes. The state plans to establish nine new airports and ten waterdromes, ensuring airport access within a 150-km radius across Andhra Pradesh.
Employment and Infrastructure
The cabinet approved the implementation of the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission (Gramin) from July 1, 2026, with funding support from both the Centre and the state in a 60:40 ratio. Additionally, a Rs 300-crore government guarantee was approved to facilitate financing arrangements involving AP Power Finance Corporation and AP State FiberNet.
New University
The cabinet cleared the establishment of Sri City International University in Tirupati district under the greenfield category. The private university, promoted by Sri City Education Foundation with an investment of about Rs 250 crore across 60 acres, aims to provide world-class education, research and innovation opportunities while serving as a hub for startups, incubators and industry partnerships. The institution has agreed to reserve at least 35 per cent of seats in non-medical courses under the government quota.
