Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has formally inaugurated the Cyient AI & Future Skills Hub at the Digital Bhavan in Pedamainavani Lanka village, West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. The initiative, developed by the Cyient Foundation, aims to equip rural communities with future-ready skills in artificial intelligence and digital technologies, strengthening inclusive economic participation and digital transformation.

The state-of-the-art facility is designed as a model AI enabled rural skill and livelihood centre, with infrastructure that includes smart classrooms, a 40-system computer lab, drone training equipment, high-speed internet connectivity, licensed and open-source AI tools, and a centralized learning management system. Training will be delivered through three National Skills Qualifications Framework-aligned tracks: AI enabled digital and IT literacy, AI based digital marketing and e-commerce, and agri-tech and aqua-tech with drone operations.

Sitharaman highlighted that the hub supports national priorities such as Digital India, Skill India, and Viksit Bharat 2047, and represents how corporate social responsibility (CSR) partnerships can augment government infrastructure to foster sustainable development and rural empowerment. The training model combines practical exposure and theoretical instruction, and includes certification, placement support, and self-employment opportunities to ensure sustainable livelihoods.

Cyient Founder Chairman Dr. BVR Mohan Reddy underscored the foundation’s commitment to digital empowerment, noting their work in digitalizing over 120 government schools and reaching more than 35,000 students through digital literacy programs. Officials at the event included the West Godavari District Collector and other senior state and central representatives.

The Cyient AI & Future Skills Hub aims to transform local workforce capabilities, enabling youth, women, farmers and self-help groups to participate meaningfully in India’s evolving digital economy.