The National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology signed an MoU with the Government of Andhra Pradesh to establish India’s first dedicated Quantum & AI University campus in Amaravati.
Key Highlights:
Project Location:
Amaravati
Implementing Agency:
NIELIT under Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
Nature of Project:
India’s first specialised university campus focusing on:
The School Education Department of Andhra Pradesh signed an MoU with International Innovation Corps to improve implementation of the Dokka Seethamma Midday Meal Scheme
Dokka Seethamma Midday Meal Scheme:
Dokka Seethamma Midday Meal Scheme is named after Dokka Seethamma, a historical figure from the Godavari region renowned for her selfless service in feeding the poor, the scheme focuses on improving student nutrition, attendance, and health across the state
Key Developments (2025–2026)
Extension to Intermediate Students: scheme was officially extended to cover students in Government Junior Colleges. This expansion aims to benefit approximately 1.48 lakh students across 475 colleges.
Introduction of Fine Rice: From the start of the 2025 academic year, the government began serving meals made with high-quality fine rice (sanna biyyam) in all government and aided schools to enhance meal quality.
The Andhra Pradesh government announced the launch of a Free Power Scheme for Weavers from April 1, 2026. The scheme aims to provide financial relief and livelihood support to handloom and power loom workers.
AP Free Power Scheme:
Scheme Launch Date: April 1, 2026
Electricity Benefit:
Handloom weavers: Free power up to 200 units/month
Power loom weavers: Free power up to 500 units/month
The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) was recently conducted at Kolleru Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh. This annual census helps monitor waterbird populations and assess the health of wetland ecosystems.
Asian Waterbird Census:
The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) is part of the global International Waterbird Census (IWC).
The IWC was launched in 1967 by Wetlands International.
Conducted every year during January (2nd & 3rd weeks).
Census period coincides with the mid-winter non-breeding season of migratory birds.
About Kolleru Lake:
Kolleru Lake is Asia’s largest shallow freshwater lake and one of the largest freshwater lakes in India. Located in Andhra Pradesh between the deltas of the Krishna and Godavari rivers, it is a vital ecological site designated as both a Wildlife Sanctuary (1999) and a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance (2002)
Water Sources: The lake is fed by seasonal streams like the Budameru and Tammileru and drains into the Bay of Bengal through the Upputeru outlet.
Biodiversity Hub: Known as a “Bird Heaven,” it serves as a critical stop on the Central Asian Flyway
Biodiversity Importance
Recognized as a major wetland ecosystem and bird habitat.
Key species:
Spot-billed (Grey) Pelican
Painted Stork
Open-billed Stork
Ibis
Siberian Crane
Protected Areas
Atapaka Bird Sanctuary is located within the Kolleru region.
Serves as a safe breeding and feeding ground for migratory birds.
Andhra Pradesh government has approved a Three-Zone Growth Model to accelerate industrialization and reduce regional disparities. The initiative divides the State into three economic development zones with sector-specific focus.
AP Three-Zone Growth Model
Andhra Pradesh government has approved a Three-Zone Growth Model to accelerate industrialization and ensure balanced regional development, dividing the state into North Coastal, Central Coastal, and Rayalaseema zones.
This strategy aims to foster 15% GSDP growth, with specialized, CEO-led zones focusing on unique strengths—such as port-based industries, IT, and agro-processing—to create jobs and attract investment.
North Coastal Zone (Visakhapatnam): Focusing on port-led industrialization, IT hubs, pharmaceuticals, and tourism.
Central Coastal Zone (Amaravati): Targeting agro-based industries, food processing, logistics, and digital services.
Rayalaseema Zone (Tirupati): Emphasizing renewable energy, mining, horticulture, and spiritual tourism.
Structure: Each zone is led by a senior IAS officer as CEO, supported by zonal committees of ministers and legislators to ensure fast, decentralized decisions.
Andhra Pradesh Cabinet has approved a ₹200-crore Cluster Development Programme (AP-CDP). The scheme aims to strengthen Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through infrastructure and technology support.
Andhra Pradesh-Cluster Development Programme
Andhra Pradesh Cluster Development Programme (AP-CDP) is a ₹200-crore state-funded initiative approved by the Andhra Pradesh Cabinet in to strengthen Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The program aims to establish 45 Common Facility Centres (CFCs) over five years to provide shared infrastructure and modern technology to small units.
Common Facility Centres (CFCs): 45 centres will be set up across the state to provide shared services like modern machinery, R&D support, packaging units, and quality testing labs.
Financial Assistance: The state government will provide between ₹5 crore and ₹10 crore per project.
Andhra Pradesh Cabinet has approved the Dagadarthi Greenfield Airport project in Nellore district. It will become the 8th airport in the State, enhancing regional connectivity and logistics infrastructure.
Key Highlights:
A greenfield airport is built from scratch on undeveloped land.
