CM Chandrababu Naidu has launched an ambitious plan to build a dedicated “Drone City” in the state, along with twin “Space Cities.” The foundation stone was laid virtually at the CII Partnership Summit, highlighting the government’s push into high-tech industries.
The Drone City will spread over 300 acres in Orvakallu, Kurnool district, and is being built as a complete ecosystem. It will include manufacturing units, testing and certification centers, research and development labs, and pilot training facilities. The government estimates that the city could train up to 25,000 remote drone pilots. For investors, AP is offering strong incentives: a 20% capital subsidy and full reimbursement of SGST for businesses who invest in Drone City.
Parallely, two “Space Cities” will be developed, one in the Sri Sathya Sai district and another in Tirupati. Each city will have a different focus: one will be for satellite research and innovation, and the other utilised for component manufacturing and satellite integration.
Over the next ten years, these Space Cities are expected to attract ₹25,000 crore in investment and generate around 35,000 jobs. Naidu also expressed his vision for drone taxis in AP, supported by a drone traffic controller system, which will be based on the current functioning of the air traffic control systems.
The state’s long-term goal is to position itself as a global hub for unmanned systems, deep tech, and green energy. With strong government backing and big incentives, the future of aerospace and drone innovation in India will be led by AP.
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