Amaravati, May 2 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday lauded Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu for his technology-driven initiatives and disclosed that during his initial days as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, he kept a close watch on Naidu's efforts.

While addressing a public gathering after re-launching the capital development works in Amaravati, the Prime Minister shared that he gained significant insights from Naidu's initiatives during his tenure as Chief Minister of the united Andhra Pradesh.

"When I was newly elected as Gujarat's Chief Minister, I meticulously tracked the initiatives undertaken by Chandrababu Naidu in Hyderabad. I learned immensely, and today, I have had the chance to implement those learnings," the Prime Minister remarked.

Naidu was visibly moved by the Prime Minister's commendations.

The Prime Minister was responding to Naidu’s words of appreciation during his address.

"Technology embodies Narendra Modi Ji. No other politician comprehends technology like him. Only Modi Ji grasps its essence," stated the Chief Minister, highlighting his initiatives promoting semiconductors, the Jan Dhan Model, Aadhaar-mobile integration, and UPI.

Naidu informed the Prime Minister about the initiation of Quantum Valley in Amaravati, building on his earlier efforts like HITEC City in Hyderabad. "We are concentrating on AI, and you always guide me that AI is a gamechanger," he added.

During his speech, the Prime Minister also commended Naidu for embracing advanced technology and efficiently executing large-scale projects.

Modi accepted Naidu’s invitation to participate in the International Yoga Day on June 21 in Andhra Pradesh, expressing gratitude to Naidu, the Andhra Pradesh government, and the state's residents for hosting this significant national event. "I will join the people of Andhra Pradesh in Yoga on June 21," he affirmed.

The Prime Minister, who laid the groundwork for projects amounting to nearly Rs 60,000 crore, expressed that he views Amaravati not merely as a city but as a dream actualized. He described these projects as a robust foundation for Andhra Pradesh's aspirations and the hopes of a Viksit Bharat.

"Amaravati symbolizes Indralok, and its status as Andhra Pradesh's capital is no mere coincidence. It signifies the establishment of Swarna Andhra," he stated.

The Prime Minister emphasized that "Swarna Andhra" will pave the way for a Viksit Bharat, and Amaravati will bolster the vision of "Swarna Andhra."

"Amaravati is poised to be a city where the aspirations of youth will be realized. It will evolve into a leading hub in sectors like information technology, artificial intelligence, green energy, clean industry, education, and healthcare," he continued, assuring that the Central government will support the state government in developing infrastructure for these critical sectors.

PM Modi acknowledged NTR's (TDP founder and former Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao) vision of a prosperous Andhra Pradesh, stating, "Together, we must transform Amaravati and Andhra Pradesh into the growth engine for Viksit Bharat. We must fulfill NTR Garu's dream."

He noted that over the last decade, India has concentrated on enhancing physical, digital, and social infrastructure, highlighting that India is among the nations witnessing swift infrastructure growth, with Andhra Pradesh reaping the benefits.

"From the Red Fort, I declared that the four pillars of Viksit Bharat are the poor, farmers, youth, and women. For the NDA government, these pillars are paramount, and we are dedicated to farmer development. In the last decade, the central government has invested Rs 12 lakh crore in providing affordable fertilizers and modern seeds to farmers," he said.

The Prime Minister expressed admiration for the people of Andhra Pradesh: "There is no shortage of dreamers in Andhra Pradesh, nor of those who actualize those dreams. I can proudly assert that Andhra Pradesh is on the right track. The state has gained momentum, and we must maintain this growth trajectory."

During the event, the Prime Minister laid the foundation for a missile testing range in Andhra Pradesh, emphasizing that India's strength lies not just in its weaponry but also in its unity.

"This spirit of unity is reinforced through our 'Ekta Malls.' Ekta Malls are being established in numerous cities across the nation. I am pleased that an Ekta Mall will also be constructed in Visakhapatnam, where products crafted by artisans and handicraft workers from across the country will be available under one roof.