How Can Youth Stay United and Focused for Nation-Building? FM Sitharaman in Nagaland
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Synopsis
On her visit to Nagaland, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the importance of youth in nation-building. She urged students to remain united and focused, while addressing critical issues like drug abuse and financial literacy for women in the Northeast. Discover how the SAMARTH initiative is paving the way for technological advancements among students.
Key Takeaways
- Youth Empowerment: Emphasizing unity and positivity among youth for nation-building.
- Financial Literacy: Importance of women understanding modern financial tools.
- SAMARTH Initiative: A program aimed at enhancing skills in technology.
- Northeast Growth: The region is ready for emerging industries.
- Digital Learning: Expansion of connectivity in rural areas through BharatNet.
Kohima, Nov 14 (NationPress) Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, on a three-day visit to Nagaland, urged the youth to play a pivotal role in nation-building by staying united, focused, and optimistic as they prepare to shape the future of the country.
Sitharaman warned against harmful influences like drugs and bullying, reminding students that they are the architects of India's foundation for 2047.
During her inauguration of the Students Advancing Mindsets in AI, Robotics, Technology and Digital Hardware (SAMARTH) initiative in Kohima, she encouraged students to uplift and support each other in building a strong and progressive society.
The SAMARTH initiative, launched at the National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology (NIELIT) in Kohima, aims to enhance students' skill sets.
The Union Minister also toured an exhibition showcasing innovations by startups and students, visiting the India AI Lab and the R&D Cyber Forensics Lab, where she interacted with both students and faculty members.
Sitharaman launched the SAMARTH Portal and engaged in an interactive session with students. She highlighted the significance of financial literacy for women in the Northeast, noting that while Indian women traditionally manage household finances well, the modern economy necessitates an understanding of new financial tools and opportunities.
She urged women to explore small savings options, stock market investments, and government-provided collateral-free loans.
The Finance Minister also emphasized the PM Vatsalya scheme, which allows families to save small amounts for children from birth, later converting these savings into a provident fund and pension benefits. She stated that familiarizing students with Artificial Intelligence is crucial for future skill development.
Sitharaman remarked that the Northeast is showing remarkable readiness in terms of skills, training, and enthusiasm, making it well-positioned for emerging industries.
In response to a query regarding digital education in rural areas, she noted the swift advancement of the BharatNet initiative, which expands optical fiber connectivity to village institutions like schools, post offices, and hospitals.
She added that 5G technology has been launched nationwide, with further improvements underway, and both public and private telecom networks are focused on enhancing coverage in remote areas.
Sitharaman also pointed out that the Northeast is experiencing simultaneous growth across various sectors including coal, cement, renewable energy, green hydrogen, and semiconductors.
She stated that enhanced multimodal transport and logistics are addressing long-standing connectivity challenges, allowing industries to progress without awaiting sequential development.
Regarding scholarships, the Minister indicated that the government would consider creating a centralized portal listing all fellowships and scholarship schemes across ministries for easier access by students.
Sitharaman also unveiled three categories of AI training kits and distributed them to student beneficiaries, alongside an MoU exchange between TSAT and NIELIT.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the significant emphasis on youth empowerment articulated by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The focus on unity and positivity among students not only fosters a conducive environment for personal growth but also aligns with the broader objectives of nation-building. The initiatives introduced reflect a forward-thinking approach that can drive progress in the country.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SAMARTH initiative?
The SAMARTH initiative focuses on enhancing students' mindsets in AI, robotics, technology, and digital hardware to prepare them for future career opportunities.
Why is financial literacy important for women?
Financial literacy empowers women to make informed financial decisions, expand their understanding of modern financial tools, and utilize government schemes effectively.
How is the Northeast region progressing in technology?
The Northeast exhibits impressive readiness in skills and training, positioning itself strongly for new-age industries, with initiatives like BharatNet enhancing digital infrastructure.
What are the benefits of the PM Vatsalya scheme?
The PM Vatsalya scheme allows families to save small amounts for their children from birth, which can later be converted into a provident fund and pension benefits.
How is the government addressing digital learning in rural areas?
The BharatNet program is expanding optical fiber connectivity, facilitating digital learning in rural areas by connecting schools, post offices, and hospitals.
