
New Delhi, February 16, 2026: In a high-profile meeting that underscores Andhra Pradesh’s ambitions to become a global technology hub, Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates met with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu at the State Secretariat on Monday. The visit, aimed at deepening the partnership between the state government and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, focused on revolutionary advancements in healthcare, agriculture, and digital governance.
The meeting marked a “homecoming” of sorts, as Naidu and Gates share a storied history of collaboration dating back to the late 1990s, when they worked together to establish Hyderabad as an IT powerhouse.
During the deliberations, CM Naidu presented his ambitious “Swarna Andhra 2047” (Golden Andhra) roadmap. This vision seeks to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data-driven solutions into the very fabric of public service.
Key highlights of the presentation included:
Bill Gates, who has often lauded Naidu’s early adoption of technology, expressed his admiration for the state’s continued progress. He noted that Naidu was one of the first leaders he met who truly understood the potential of digital tools to transform governance.
Following the formal meetings at the Secretariat, the delegation visited an agricultural farm in Undavalli village. There, Gates witnessed firsthand a demonstration of drones used for precision spraying and AI-powered sensors that monitor soil moisture levels. The Chief Minister emphasized that the goal is to make “technology-led farming” affordable for the common farmer.
The visit concluded with a commitment to form a joint committee to oversee the implementation of these tech-driven initiatives. As the state gears up for its 2047 goals, the rekindled partnership with the Gates Foundation is expected to provide the technical expertise and global scale needed to turn “Swarna Andhra” into a reality.
Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, IT Minister Nara Lokesh, and other senior cabinet members were also present, signaling a unified government push toward a high-tech future.