Tirupati: Andhra Pradesh’s Education and IT Minister, Nara Lokesh, announced the state’s ambition to become a global center for maritime innovation and autonomous systems. This vision focuses on enhancing marine technology, coastal security, and the blue economy. His remarks followed the foundation-laying ceremony for an autonomous maritime shipyard and systems development center at the Juvvaladinne fishing harbor in Nellore district, a project initiated by Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt Ltd.
Lokesh emphasized that this facility marks a significant advancement in India’s maritime technology and coastal security. With a coastline exceeding 7,500 km, and Andhra Pradesh boasting the second-longest stretch, the region serves as a vital source of livelihood and trade for coastal communities. Many families rely on fishing, often facing perilous sea conditions to sustain their livelihoods.
The Juvvaladinne harbor, developed at a cost of ₹288.80 crore, includes essential infrastructure such as landing platforms and auction halls, benefiting approximately 25,000 fishing families. It can accommodate around 1,250 fishing vessels and is projected to handle nearly 41,000 tonnes of fish annually, providing shelter during adverse weather.
The new shipyard will span 29.58 acres and focus on developing technologies like unmanned surface vessels and AI-based maritime systems. These innovations will enhance coastal surveillance and support fishermen with real-time weather updates and navigation assistance. Lokesh assured fishermen that their interests would be safeguarded and highlighted the project’s potential to create employment opportunities for youth in fishing communities.
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