Tirupati to Become Hub for ‘AP FIRST’ – Andhra Pradesh’s Futuristic Science and Technology Centre
Vijayawada, January 17, 2026 – Andhra Pradesh is set to make a significant leap in science and technology with the announcement of the Andhra Pradesh Futuristic Innovation and Research in Science and Technology (AP FIRST) centre in Tirupati. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu made the announcement on Friday during a high-level review meeting, affirming the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and research in emerging technologies.
Collaboration with Premier Institutes
The AP FIRST initiative will be developed in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology Tirupati (IIT Tirupati) and the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER). This partnership aims to establish a cutting-edge platform that nurtures research, promotes innovation, and supports start-ups while ensuring a steady supply of skilled professionals to burgeoning industries.
Focus on Emerging Technologies and Skills Development
Naidu emphasized the transformative roles that sectors such as aerospace and defence, space technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, semiconductors, quantum technology, healthcare, biotechnology, green energy, and rural technologies will play in the coming decades. Recognizing the importance of preparing youth for these fields, he directed officials to start identifying and training young talent equipped with the necessary skill sets.
Integration with Industry and Education Ecosystems
The Chief Minister outlined a vision for AP FIRST to serve as a nexus connecting universities, leading companies, and innovation hubs, including the prominent Ratan Tata Innovation Hub (RTIH). Continuous engagement with industry stakeholders will enable the centre to keep academic curricula aligned with the evolving technological landscape and skill requirements. This proactive linkage is intended to ensure graduates are industry-ready and capable of driving technological advancements.
Strategic National Coordination and Support
Naidu underscored the need for discussions with the central government to facilitate streamlined management and national-level coordination of the AP FIRST centre. Drawing a parallel with successful past policies that elevated Telugu professionals in IT and pharmaceuticals on the global stage, he stressed adopting a similar focused approach to emerging future technologies.
Startup Ecosystem and Innovation Growth
Setting ambitious goals, the Chief Minister called for the demonstration of measurable progress within three years, particularly in fostering start-ups and reinforcing the regional innovation ecosystem. This strategy aligns with Andhra Pradesh’s broader objectives to become a leader in technology-driven development.
Expanding the Role of Drones in Public Services
During the meeting, which included key advisors on aerospace-defence and IT-digital transformation alongside senior officials from the Drone Corporation, Naidu reviewed the current drone initiatives. He urged expansion of drone applications beyond disaster response to areas such as agriculture, medical emergencies, and public service delivery. He suggested exploring advanced drone traffic control systems akin to air traffic control and investigating the feasibility of drone taxis and drone ambulances. The government aims to showcase these drone-based innovations to the public by the next International Drone Day.
Attendees and Expertise
The strategic meeting was attended by aerospace and defence advisor Satheesh Reddy, IT and digital transformation advisor Amit Duggar, IIT Tirupati Director K. N. Satyanarayana, Professor Senthil Kumar, and Defence Materials and Technology Institute Director Colonel P. S. Reddy, in addition to other senior officials.
With AP FIRST, Andhra Pradesh positions itself at the forefront of futuristic innovation, building a robust ecosystem that bridges academia, industry, and government to unlock technological potential and drive inclusive growth.
Reported by Srikanth Aluri, Assistant Editor, Times of India, Vijayawada
