Karnataka Quota Row: Nara Lokesh Invites IT Firms To Andhra Amid Kannadiga Reservation Concerns

Nara Lokesh extended an invite after NASSCOM expressed disappointment with the bill, which has now been put on hold by Karnataka, highlighting that the restrictions could force companies to relocate.

Nara Lokesh, Andhra Pradesh IT, Electronics, and Human Resource Development Minister,  extended an open invitation to members of the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM) to consider setting up operations in the state on Wednesday. This invitation follows concerns raised over Karnataka’s proposal to reserve certain jobs for local residents under the Karnataka State Employment of Local Industries Factories Establishment Act Bill, 2024.

On Wednesday, NASSCOM expressed disappointment with the proposed bill, which has now been put on hold by Congress-led Karnataka government, highlighting that the restrictions could lead to a shortage of skilled local talent and potentially force companies to relocate. The IT industry body noted that such mandates could create operational challenges for businesses relying on a diverse and highly skilled workforce. The NASSCOM members also said that they were concerned about the provisions of the bill and urged state to withdraw the bill. 

Amid these concerns, Lokesh welcomed IT, IT services, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and related companies to consider Andhra Pradesh as an alternative destination. "We understand your disappointment. We welcome you to expand or relocate your businesses to our IT, IT services, AI, and data centre cluster at Vizag," Lokesh stated in a post on social media platform X.

He assured potential investors of best-in-class facilities, including uninterrupted power, robust infrastructure, and access to skilled talent without government-imposed restrictions. "Andhra Pradesh is ready to welcome you. Please get in touch!" Lokesh added.