Raichur, April 4 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh Minister for Information Technology and Human Resource Development Nara Lokesh on Saturday credited Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries H.D. Kumaraswamy with ensuring the revival of the Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL) at Visakhapatnam, which was facing the threat of closure or privatisation.​

Addressing a large gathering in Raichur, Lokesh said the Vizag Steel Plant holds deep emotional significance for the people of Andhra Pradesh, often reflected in the sentiment: “Vizag Steel is the right of the people of Andhra.”​

He noted that due to policy decisions of the previous state government in Andhra Pradesh, the plant had reached a critical stage and was at risk of being shut down or privatised.​

Lokesh stated that after assuming office as Union Steel Minister, Kumaraswamy had assured that the plant would be protected. ​

“He honoured his commitment. Today, the plant is back on the path of recovery and moving towards profitability,” he said.​

Recalling the sequence of events, Lokesh mentioned that he had consistently urged Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat to take up the matter with Kumaraswamy in New Delhi. During one such interaction, he was connected by phone with the Union Minister, who made a direct appeal to save the plant.​

“In response, Kumaraswamy assured me, ‘Brother, please be at ease. Leave the matter to me.’ He stood by his word and ensured that the Vizag Steel Plant was safeguarded. For this, the people of Andhra Pradesh remain deeply grateful to him,” Lokesh stated.​

He further highlighted that recently, the foundation stone was laid for one of India’s largest green steel manufacturing facilities at Anakapalli in Andhra Pradesh, being established through a collaboration. ​

He credited Kumaraswamy’s efforts as a key factor in bringing this major investment to the state.​

Speaking on the longstanding relationship between their families, Lokesh said the association dates back over three decades. ​

He recalled that during the United Front government at the Centre, his father, N. Chandrababu Naidu, played a key role, while H.D. Deve Gowda served as Prime Minister.​

“Today, as Kumaraswamy serves as a Union Minister, I feel fortunate to stand alongside him on this platform,” Lokesh said, expressing his gratitude.​

–IANS

mka/dan