Naidu to launch ₹1.36 lakh crore AM/NS plant in Anakapalli
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will lay the foundation stone for the ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) greenfield integrated steel plant at Rajayyapeta in Nakkapalli mandal of Anakapalli district on March 23, marking a major push for industrial expansion in the Visakhapatnam region.
The project, with a total investment of ₹1,35,964 crore, is expected to generate employment and livelihood opportunities for nearly one lakh people, both directly and indirectly. Officials and industry observers say the scale of the investment makes it one of the largest industrial commitments in the country in recent years.
Spanning 5,465 acres, the plant will be developed in two phases and will have a planned production capacity of 17.8 million tonnes per annum. In addition to the steel plant, AM/NS India will invest ₹11,198 crore to develop a captive port with a handling capacity of 50 million tonnes on 316 acres. The port is expected to create around 6,000 jobs and strengthen logistics connectivity for large-scale industrial operations.
Industry experts note that the integration of steel production with a captive port is a significant advantage. “Such a model reduces dependence on external logistics and ensures cost efficiency, which is crucial for global competitiveness,” said a senior infrastructure analyst. “This also positions the Visakhapatnam region as a long-term industrial and export hub.”
The state government has accelerated infrastructure development to support the project. A four-lane road connecting the plant to National Highway-16 is being developed, along with assured water and power supply. Officials say these measures are critical to ensuring smooth execution and timely commissioning.
An industry expert pointed out that reliable infrastructure is often a deciding factor for mega investments. “Investors look for predictability in utilities and connectivity. Andhra Pradesh’s proactive approach here will play a key role in the project’s success,” the expert added.
The foundation ceremony is expected to be attended by Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy, Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan, HRD and IT Minister Nara Lokesh, ArcelorMittal Executive Chairman Lakshmi Mittal and AM/NS India Chairman Aditya Mittal.
After the foundation-laying ceremony, the Chief Minister will visit the project’s experience zone and participate in the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) before returning to Amaravati.
Experts say the project could have a wider economic impact beyond direct employment. “Large-scale steel and port-led development tends to trigger ancillary industries, real estate growth, and service sector expansion, creating a multiplier effect on the regional economy,” an economist observed.