Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman made a significant visit to Pedamainavani Lanka (PM Lanka) village in West Godavari district on Sunday. The village, located in Narsapur mandal, is one she has personally adopted. Her day-long engagement blended community interaction, developmental initiatives, and crucial aid distribution for those affected by natural disasters.
Community Engagement and Empowerment Focus
The minister began her visit by joining local residents, officials, and public representatives to listen to the 129th episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Mann Ki Baat radio address. The broadcast held special significance for the region as it spotlighted the GI-tagged Narasapur lace craft. This traditional art form was highlighted for its vital role in creating sustainable livelihoods and empowering women artisans in the area, aligning with broader goals of financial inclusion and skill development.
Substantial Aid for Cyclone-Affected Fishermen
A major part of Sitharaman's visit was dedicated to rehabilitation efforts following Cyclone Montha. In a concrete step to support the local fishing community, she distributed essential equipment to traditional fishermen in Mogaltur and Narsapur mandals. The assistance, provided in collaboration with the Ramakrishna Mission from Rajamahendravaram, reached 100 beneficiaries.
Each beneficiary received a fishing boat valued at Rs 50,000 and fishing nets worth Rs 20,000. This comprehensive aid package, falling under the Cyclone Rehabilitation Scheme, represented a total financial commitment of Rs 70 lakh, offering a crucial boost to revive their livelihoods.
Inauguration of Future-Ready Infrastructure
Focusing on education and digital empowerment, Sitharaman inaugurated newly built science laboratories at the Zilla Parishad High (ZPH) School in PM Lanka. The centerpiece of the new infrastructure was the inauguration of a Digital Community Bhavan within the village.
This Bhavan is equipped with three advanced, AI-powered facilities designed to bridge the digital divide and foster modern skills:
- Marketing & E-Commerce Skills Lab: To train locals in online business and digital sales.
- Digital & IT Literacy Lab: To provide fundamental computer and internet skills.
- Drone Technologies Lab: Aimed at specialized training in drone operation and technology.
These labs were established through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding from Union Bank of India, State Bank of India, and the Cyient Foundation.
Emphasis on AI and Drone Technology for Self-Employment
Addressing the gathering, Minister Sitharaman underscored the growing importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills in the contemporary job market. She specifically highlighted the potential of the Drone Technologies Lab, stating it would train more women as "Drone Didis". These skilled operators can find applications in agriculture, aquaculture, and related sectors, thereby promoting innovation and creating avenues for self-employment in rural areas.
Concluding her tour, the Finance Minister inspected a Gabion Wall structure constructed by Deloitte. This infrastructure project is designed to protect the village's coastal area from soil erosion, addressing a key environmental challenge for the community.
