Education is the key to development: Nirmala Sitharaman

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized that education is the strongest foundation for both personal growth and societal progress. Speaking at an event at the District Council High School in PM Lanka village on Sunday, she urged students to go beyond textbook learning and develop creativity and self-reliance.

The event also marked the inauguration of several facilities, including a computer lab and a science lab, established with ₹18 lakh support from Union Bank of India.

Addressing students, the minister highlighted the transformative power of education and encouraged the youth from coastal areas to pursue higher education without hesitation. She assured them that the central government would fully support their growth and urged students to study diligently and contribute to the nation’s development.

Sitharaman also highlighted the government’s focus on developing PM adoption villages. Through the ongoing ‘PM Vishwakarma Yojana’ training center in PM Lanka, local youth are gaining skills in 13 trades, leading to employment in industrial hubs like Hyderabad and Sri City. She mentioned that training is also being provided in emerging areas such as drones, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and 3D printing to prepare youth for future opportunities.

The minister reflected on her long-standing connection with the people of Pedamainavani Lanka and surrounding villages. “Although close to the Godavari river, locals faced drinking water challenges due to saline water. We addressed this by providing clean water through reverse osmosis plants,” she said.

Sitharaman noted that scientific measures are being taken to conserve the coastal ecosystem, aiming to complete key initiatives by Sankranti 2026. She also highlighted government support for fishermen, including boats and other assistance. Programs like Dronidhi and Lakshpati Dronidhi are empowering women economically, demonstrating that combining education, skills, and employment can drive holistic village development.

The event was attended by officials and representatives from multiple sectors, including Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) Dasi Raju, DSP Dr. G. Shreeved, Union Bank officials, Yuva Shakti Lending Branch Cell (YSLBC) CVN Bhaskar, regional heads, district education officers, Narasapuram TDP in-charge Potthuri Ramaraju, BJP district president Nammpudi Sridevi, central minister representatives, village sarpanch Kollati Kanakadurga, school committee chairman C.H. Narasimharao, teachers, students, and parents.