Hyderabad: The Telangana government’s decision to decline a Rs. 100 crore donation pledged by the Adani Group for the proposed Young India Skills University has brought the conglomerate’s projects in the state into sharp focus. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy announced on Monday, November 25, that the donation would not be accepted at the moment, sparking debates about the group’s involvement and business interests in Telangana.
In a press conference, CM Revanth Reddy explained the decision, stating, “I and my cabinet colleagues do not want to be involved in unnecessary discussions and situations that would dent the image of the state government or my own. That is why, on behalf of the state government, our official Jayesh Ranjan wrote a letter (to Adani’s).”
Adani’s Investments in Telangana
The Adani Group has a significant presence in Telangana, with 12 projects either completed, ongoing, or proposed. These ventures range from defense manufacturing to national highways and renewable energy initiatives. While 11 projects have been approved by the ruling Congress and the previous Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) governments, one remains unapproved.
Projects Approved by the BRS Government
- Adani Elbit Systems Defence Unit (Mamidipally): Produces drones for the Indian Army and Navy and exports to Israeli companies. Fully operational.
- Missile Shell Manufacturing Unit (Mamidipally): Scheduled to be operational by 2025, the project is under construction.
- Microsoft Data Centre (Ellikatta): Phase 1 was completed, and the land was acquired for Phase 2. (Claimed as part of Adani’s involvement without clear evidence).
- Logistics Park and Dry Port (Ramannapeta): 375 acres acquired, development ongoing.
- 750 kV Transmission Line Project: Connecting Gujarat, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. Completed.
- National Highway Projects: Out of three proposed highways, the Khammam to Suryapet route is completed; work is ongoing for the others.
Projects Approved by the Congress Government
- Data Centre Complex (Mucherla): The land acquisition proposal has been submitted.
- Pumped Storage Project (5000 MW): MoU signed during WEF Davos meet; proposals submitted for land allotment.
- Cement Grinding Unit (6 Million MT) at Ramannapeta: Public hearing held on October 23, 2024; awaiting final approvals.
- Cement Plant (9 Million MT) at Kodangal: Approved; expressions of interest submitted for establishment.
Unapproved Projects
- Counter-Drone Manufacturing Unit (Mamidipally): Planned for 2025 but not yet approved by either the Congress or BRS government.
What Lies Ahead?
The Telangana government’s cautious approach to the Adani Group’s donation reflects a desire to avoid controversies that could harm its image. However, the conglomerate’s ongoing projects remain a crucial part of Telangana’s industrial and infrastructure development.
