Amaravathi (Andhra Pradesh): Leading software giant HCL is set to significantly expand its operations in Andhra Pradesh, creating an estimated 15,000 new jobs for local youth.
A delegation from HCL, led by Corporate Vice-President Siva Sankar and Associate Vice-President Siva Prasad, held an extensive meeting with the Minister for Human Resources Development, Information Technology (IT), and Electronics at his residence in Undavalli on Tuesday. Following the meeting, HCL officials announced the company’s large-scale expansion plans in the state, which aim to employ at least 5,500 more young people.
In the second phase of this expansion, HCL plans to construct a new multi-story facility that will create an additional 10,000 jobs. Currently, the company employs 4,500 individuals at its existing unit in the region.
“We are developing strategies to create a substantial number of jobs by integrating the latest technologies in line with global trends. Additionally, we will partner with the state government in the upcoming skill census and skill development initiatives,” stated Siva Sankar and Siva Prasad during a media briefing.
The executives also expressed their willingness to support the state government’s ambitious goal of generating 20 lakh jobs in the coming years. They appealed to Andhra Pradesh’s Education and IT Minister, Nara Lokesh, to expedite necessary approvals for their expansion and to release subsidies that were withheld by the previous administration.
In response, Lokesh recalled his efforts during the last TDP regime, where he personally met with HCL Chairperson Shiv Nadar and persuaded him to establish the unit in Gannavaram, despite competition from several other states. “It was a remarkable achievement to have the necessary permissions granted and the land allocated in Gannavaram in record time, allowing HCL to commence its operations rapidly,” Lokesh reminisced.
Lokesh also noted that his visits to Gannavaram bring him immense satisfaction, knowing that 4,500 youth have gained employment. However, he expressed regret that the company’s expansion was hindered due to the inefficiency of the subsequent government. “The potential to create 20,000 jobs was curtailed at 4,500 because of the lack of necessary permissions and subsidies,” he added.
Lokesh assured that with the current administration’s focus on job creation, the state government would provide full support to HCL’s expansion efforts. He confirmed that the withheld subsidies would be released in installments and urged HCL to prioritize the employment of an additional 15,500 youth.
He concluded by extending his heartfelt congratulations to HCL for their commitment to providing jobs to the youth and enhancing their skills.
