Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman after inaugurating a science laboratory at Zilla Parishad High School in Pedamainavanilanka village of West Godavari district on Sunday.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday said that education alone is the real path to development and urged the youth to focus on education and sports that bring India global recognition and prestige.
Ms. Sitharaman was speaking after inaugurating computer and science labs and other basic infrastructure worth ₹ 18 lakh at the Zilla Parishad High School at Pedamainavanilanka village in Narasapuram mandal of West Godavari district. The facilities were provided with the support of Union Bank of India.
Addressing the students, she said that both the central and state governments are committed to ensuring that every student pursues higher education and achieves greater heights in life.
While interacting with the students, she emphasized the importance of digital classrooms to help them understand global developments and meet modern educational standards.
She especially urged the youth from the coastal areas to pursue higher studies and contribute meaningfully to the development of the state and the nation.
“Focus on education, development and welfare is our responsibility,” Ms. Sitharaman said, adding that the combination of education and sports could elevate India’s status on the global stage. “Shaping the future of the country depends on today’s youth,” she added.
Among those present were Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, Andhra Pradesh Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav, Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu, BJP State President PVN Madhav, District Collector Chadalavada Nagarani, Superintendent of Police Adnan Nayeem Asmi and several MLAs present.
Mr. Madhav said the transformation of the remote coastal village of Pedamainavanilanka reflected Ms. Sitharaman’s enduring commitment to development. He noted that despite her demanding responsibilities as finance minister, she has shown consistent interest in protecting the village from sea erosion and supporting development initiatives over the past decade.
Later, Ms. Sitharaman inaugurated the Cyient AI & Future Skills Hub at Digital Bhavan in the village. Established under the Cyient Foundation, the center aims to promote rural employment and youth and women empowerment through AI-based future-ready skills, in line with national initiatives such as Digital India, Skill India and Viksit Bharat-2047.
Cyient Limited Founder and Chairman BVR Mohan Reddy said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to inclusive digital growth and noted that the foundation has already digitized over 120 government schools and imparted digital literacy to over 35,000 students.
Published – 28 Dec 2025 19:30 IST
