The Andhra Pradesh government has appointed four prominent experts as honorary advisors with cabinet rank in various specialized fields. These appointments will be valid for two years, as per the government orders.
Suchitra Ella, co-founder and Managing Director of Bharat Biotech, has been appointed as advisor for handloom and handicrafts development. She currently serves as a member of the TTD Board of Trustees and also heads the Ella Foundation. Suchitra received the Padma Bhushan award in 2022 jointly with her husband Dr. Krishna Ella for their exceptional contributions to biotechnology, particularly for developing the COVID-19 vaccine.
In her advisory role, Suchitra will provide guidance on strengthening and developing the handloom and handicrafts sectors. Her responsibilities include expanding market opportunities, attracting domestic and international investments, supporting artisans, cooperative societies, and MSMEs. She will also suggest programs for the upliftment of women artisans and marginalized communities, and help secure geographical indications and intellectual property rights for traditional crafts.
G. Satish Reddy, currently an advisor to the Ministry of Defence, has been appointed as advisor for Aerospace and Defence Manufacturing Hub. He has held key positions including DRDO Chairman, Secretary of DRDO, and Director General of Missiles and Strategic Systems. Satish Reddy will guide the state in developing world-class aerospace and defense research and manufacturing capabilities.
Dr. KPC Gandhi, a renowned forensic scientist, has been appointed as advisor for Forensic Sciences. He previously served as the Director of Forensic Science Laboratory in united Andhra Pradesh until his retirement and has been a forensic advisor to several states including AP, West Bengal, and Jammu & Kashmir. Currently, he heads his own Truth Lab. Dr. Gandhi will advise on improving forensic infrastructure, human resources, and funding in the state.
Sridhar Phanicker Somnath, former ISRO Chairman (January 2022 to January 2025), has been appointed as advisor for Space Technology. With 40 years of experience in the space sector, he previously served as Secretary of the Department of Space and Chairman of the Space Commission. Currently a professor at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Somnath will provide guidance on utilizing space technology in administration, industrial research, agriculture, disaster management, urban planning, and climate change initiatives.
