Andhra Pradesh Unveils AI-Powered Skill Portal and Industrial Cluster Strategy for Massive Job Creation
In a significant development aimed at transforming the employment landscape, Andhra Pradesh's Minister for HRD, IT, and Electronics, Nara Lokesh, has announced the state government's plan to launch a groundbreaking AI-driven skill portal by the end of March. This innovative platform represents a first-of-its-kind initiative in India, designed to equip youth with cutting-edge tools for career advancement.
Comprehensive Features of the AI Skill Portal
The upcoming portal will integrate multiple advanced features to streamline the job-seeking process. It will utilize Aadhaar-based credential verification to ensure authenticity and security. Users will benefit from CV-building tools, AI-powered courses tailored to industry needs, and self-assessment modules to gauge skills. Additionally, the platform will offer interview training support and aggregate job opportunities using artificial intelligence algorithms, making it a one-stop solution for employment readiness.
Cluster-Based Industrial Development Model
Minister Lokesh explained that this initiative is a key component of the government's cluster-based industrial development model, which aims to fulfill the "Super-6" promise of creating 20 lakh jobs within five years. This vision aligns with the coalition government's principle of "One State, One Capital, Decentralised Development," executed through the identification of 22 industrial clusters spread across Andhra Pradesh.
Detailed Industrial Cluster Plans
The government has outlined specific plans for various industrial clusters, each targeting distinct sectors:
- Automotive: Focused in Rayalaseema and Anantapur.
- Renewable Energy and Cement: Centered in Kurnool.
- Electronics: Developed in Kadapa and Chittoor.
- Glass and AC Manufacturing: Located in Nellore.
- Compressed Biogas: Based in Prakasam.
- Quantum Computing: Established in Amaravati.
- Aqua: Concentrated in the Godavari districts.
- Pharma, Medical Devices, and Steel: Situated in north Andhra.
Additionally, the state is working on ambitious projects such as a drone city and a space city. Lokesh emphasized the importance of vertical and horizontal integration within these clusters, bringing ancillary units into the same ecosystem to replicate successful global supply chain models.
International Collaborations and Industry Support
To bolster these efforts, the government is in discussions with the University of New South Wales to establish a rapid prototyping, testing, and design center at IIT Tirupati. This facility will support wafer manufacturing units in north Andhra and Rayalaseema, enhancing technological capabilities.
Highlighting Andhra Pradesh's dominance in air conditioner production, Lokesh noted that 50% of India's AC units are manufactured in the state, crediting Industries Minister TG Bharat for attracting major companies like Daikin, LG Electronics, and Blue Star Limited. Production is expected to increase to 70% within the next two years.
Industry Demands and Government Response
Companies have requested ITI integration, curriculum support, and local heat pump testing facilities to reduce overseas costs. In response, a ministerial group is actively tracking 760 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed with industries, while sector-specific leaders are tasked with ecosystem development.
Current Employment Initiatives and Future Targets
So far, the government has conducted 1,587 job fairs with participation from 11,373 companies, resulting in 1,08,747 youth securing jobs. Skill training has been imparted to 73,000 candidates through APSSDC, SEEDAP, and NAC, leading to 40,000 placements.
To tap into international demand, language training programs are being implemented for nursing and paramedical professionals. Already, 150 candidates have been placed abroad, with a target of sending 5 lakh youth overseas. Furthermore, NAC will be strengthened within 90 days to produce world-class construction workers, supported by enhanced monitoring through CCTV and facial recognition systems.
This comprehensive strategy underscores Andhra Pradesh's commitment to leveraging technology and industrial growth to drive massive employment opportunities, positioning the state as a leader in economic development and skill enhancement.
