Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh Meets with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Seeking Collaboration on Digital Transformation. Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh, currently on a visit to the United States, met with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella on Tuesday, seeking collaborative efforts to drive digital transformation and create new opportunities in the state.

Lokesh, in a social media post, highlighted the meeting's purpose, stating, "Had an insightful meeting with @satyanadella, CEO of @Microsoft. Sought his valuable guidance and support in advancing IT, AI, and skill development in Andhra Pradesh. Looking forward to collaborative efforts to drive digital transformation and opportunities in the state."

The meeting focused on key areas of potential collaboration, including:

Technical Support for Digital Governance: Lokesh requested Microsoft's assistance in strengthening Andhra Pradesh's digital infrastructure and governance systems.

Skill Development: Discussions centered on enhancing IT and AI skills within the state's workforce, potentially through joint training programs and initiatives.

Amaravati as an AI Capital: Lokesh proposed establishing Amaravati as a hub for Artificial Intelligence, inviting Microsoft's participation in making this vision a reality.

Cloud Infrastructure and Data Centers: Lokesh emphasized Andhra Pradesh's potential as a regional hub for world-class companies, highlighting its investor-friendly policies, land availability, and strategic logistics advantages. He expressed interest in collaborating with Microsoft to develop state-of-the-art cloud infrastructure and data centers.

Agritech Innovation: Lokesh highlighted the potential of AI integration in Andhra Pradesh's agriculture sector, aiming to increase productivity through advanced cultivation methods.

Nadella, during the meeting, emphasized Microsoft's commitment to being a global leader in software, cloud computing, and enterprise technology. He highlighted the company's recent financial performance, achieving a $3.1 trillion market valuation and generating $211.9 billion in revenue in 2023.

Lokesh also highlighted the state government's commitment to technological advancements under the leadership of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. He mentioned the ongoing development of new IT hubs and innovation parks across Andhra Pradesh, aiming to transform these centers into world-class facilities with Microsoft's collaboration.

Other Engagements:

During his US trip, Lokesh is also scheduled to participate in the ITServe Alliance Synergy Conference in Las Vegas on October 29th. He will also unveil an idol of former Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao in Atlanta, USA, on October 31st.

On Monday, Lokesh visited Tesla headquarters in Austin, Texas, meeting with Chief Financial Officer Vaibhav Taneja and pitching Anantapur District as a potential location for Tesla's electric vehicle and battery manufacturing units.

This meeting with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella signifies Andhra Pradesh's proactive approach towards harnessing technological advancements for its economic growth and development.