Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman visited Pedamainavanilanka (PM Lanka) village in Narasapuram mandal of West Godavari district, underscoring the Centre’s commitment to integrated rural development through technology, skill enhancement, and infrastructure resilience. The visit brought into focus how coordinated efforts between government programmes and corporate social responsibility initiatives are reshaping rural livelihoods.
Participation in Mann Ki Baat Reflects Grassroots Engagement
During the visit, Sitharaman participated in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat programme alongside Union Minister of State Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, Andhra Pradesh Finance Minister Payyavula Kesav, senior officials, and local residents. The interaction reinforced the government’s emphasis on listening to citizens and aligning policy initiatives with grassroots aspirations.
Digital Skills and Future-Ready Training Take Centre Stage
A major highlight of the visit was the inauguration of drone and artificial intelligence skill development programmes implemented under CSR by Sient Pvt Ltd. The initiative aims to equip rural youth with future-ready skills, bridging the digital divide and enhancing employability in emerging technology sectors.
The Minister also inaugurated an Artificial Intelligence training centre and reviewed student artwork on the theme “Viksit Bharat – Digital India,” recognising the role of education and creativity in shaping India’s digital future.
Empowering Youth Through Certification and Skill Recognition
Nirmala Sitharaman presented certificates to trainees who completed courses at a digital training centre, emphasising the importance of formal skill recognition. Such initiatives, officials noted, are critical for integrating rural youth into the formal economy and supporting entrepreneurship and innovation at the village level.
Coastal Protection and Climate Resilience Under Review
Addressing environmental challenges, the Union Finance Minister inspected the construction of a protective wall in a coastal erosion–affected area. According to District Collector Ch. Nagarani, a 100-metre anti-erosion embankment is being built at a cost of ₹13.72 crore and has achieved 55 per cent progress, with completion targeted by January 2026.
The project reflects the government’s focus on climate resilience, safeguarding coastal communities, and protecting livelihoods vulnerable to environmental risks.
PM Lanka Emerges as a Model of Convergent Development
Officials highlighted that PM Lanka village is emerging as a landmark example of convergent development, where government welfare schemes, infrastructure projects, and CSR initiatives work in tandem. From digital empowerment to physical infrastructure, the village demonstrates how targeted interventions can accelerate rural transformation.
A Broader Vision for Inclusive Growth
The visit reaffirmed the Union government’s broader vision of inclusive and sustainable development, where technology adoption, skill development, and infrastructure resilience form the pillars of rural progress. Sitharaman’s engagement with beneficiaries and officials reflected a governance approach focused on accountability, implementation, and long-term impact.
