From Our Correspondent
Vijayawada: Representatives of Garuda Aerospace, a Chennai-based drone manufacturing firm, met with Andhra Pradesh’s Minister for Investments, Infrastructure, Roads & Buildings, B.C. Janardhan Reddy, at the Secretariat today to explore major investment plans in the state.
Meeting at Secretariat
At the R&B (Roads & Buildings) Department office in the Secretariat, Shyam Kumar, a senior representative of Garuda Aerospace, held a courtesy meeting with Minister Janardhan Reddy. The meeting focused on Garuda’s intention to expand operations in Andhra Pradesh, especially by setting up a large-scale production facility.
Garuda officials conveyed their support for establishing a high-capacity manufacturing unit in the state, citing their strong experience in drone production. The company has delivered over 500 drones under a prestigious government operation known as Operation Sindoor, demonstrating its capabilities in delivering advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
Investment Proposal & Strategic Ambitions
The delegation expressed interest in investing approximately ₹250 crore in Andhra Pradesh, contingent upon favorable land allocations, incentives, and infrastructural support from the state government. They also underlined that Garuda already holds DGCA approval and has an existing footprint in the Indian drone sector.
A notable aspect is that MS Dhoni, the former Indian cricketer, is both a brand ambassador and equity stake-holder in Garuda Aerospace. This link has often surfaced in media coverage as a boost to the firm’s brand visibility.
Minister’s Response & State Vision
Minister B.C. Janardhan Reddy welcomed the proposal, stating that Andhra Pradesh aspires to position itself as a major aerospace, drone, and aviation hub on India’s east coast. He remarked that the state has been actively courting aviation and drone firms, citing several recent expressions of interest from companies across the sector.
In past meetings, the minister has asserted that the government is open to swift clearances and infrastructure support for high-tech manufacturing proposals.
He expressed optimism that fresh investments like Garuda’s would stimulate local job growth and usher in technology transfer in drone and aeronautics-related manufacturing.
Garuda Aerospace has already carved a reputation in the drone sector. Its track record includes large-scale drone deliveries under government programs, and the firm has been discussing expansion plans worth ₹100 crore or more for “Drone City” projects in certain regions.
Andhra Pradesh, under the current government, has been actively pushing the state as a destination for aviation and drone technology investment. The minister has previously met drone firms to discuss policy support, regulatory facilitation, and the use of drones across public sector domains (irrigation, infrastructure monitoring, surveillance, etc.).