Thu Sep 25 18:42:19 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article based on that information:
**Summary:**
The Andhra Pradesh state government is collaborating with the central government to establish a mega shipbuilding cluster in Dugarajapatnam, Tirupati district. The government is finalizing the formation of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for the project and is offering incentives under the Maritime Policy. Land will be allocated on a long-term lease. Potential shipbuilding and repair centers are also planned for other districts in Andhra Pradesh to tap into the state’s extensive coastline. An MLA highlighted the decline of the Hindustan Shipyard in Visakhapatnam and emphasized the need to exploit the state’s shipbuilding potential.
**News Article:**
**Andhra Pradesh Aims to Revive Shipbuilding Industry with Mega Cluster Project**
*Vijayawada, September 26, 2025* – The Andhra Pradesh government is moving forward with plans to establish a major shipbuilding cluster in Dugarajapatnam, Tirupati district, aiming to revitalize the state’s shipbuilding industry. Minister for Infrastructure & Investments, B.C. Janardhan Reddy, announced that the government is working with the central government to finalize the formation of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to oversee the project.
Speaking in the Legislative Assembly, Minister Reddy stated that the state government has issued guidelines under its Maritime Policy to promote the shipbuilding cluster, including financial incentives, exemptions, and subsidies. Land for the project will be allocated on a long-term lease under the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board policy.
“We are committed to leveraging Andhra Pradesh’s extensive coastline to unlock its shipbuilding potential,” Minister Reddy said. In addition to the Dugarajapatnam cluster, the government is exploring opportunities for shipbuilding and repair centers in Bapatla, Nellore, Krishna, Srikakulam, and Kakinada districts.
Anakapalli MLA Konathala Ramakrishna underscored the historical significance of shipbuilding in the state, referencing the decline of the Hindustan Shipyard in Visakhapatnam. He emphasized the need for the government to capitalize on the state’s 1,053-km coastline by developing shipbuilding units alongside greenfield ports and fishing harbors.
The project is expected to create jobs, attract investment, and boost the state’s economy by leveraging its strategic location and maritime resources. The government hopes that the mega shipbuilding cluster will mark a new era for the industry in Andhra Pradesh.