Minister Nara Lokesh Lays Foundation Stone for Padmasali Bhavan, Reaffirms Support for Handloom Community

In a momentous step for Andhra Pradesh's handloom community, Minister Nara Lokesh attended the foundation stone ceremony for the new Padmasali Bhavan as the chief guest. Organized by the Padmasali International Welfare Association (PIWA), the event was held near Kolanukonda along the Mangalagiri-Vijayawada bypass, where Minister Lokesh received a warm welcome from a large crowd of community members, leaders, and activists, greeted with traditional mangala instruments.

The ceremony included a pooja led by PIWA’s Central Committee President, Swargam Pullarao, symbolizing an important milestone for the association, which has been supporting handloom families in Vijayawada for the last 17 years. Through various service programs, PIWA has provided over three crore rupees in assistance for underprivileged students and handloom workers across the state.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Lokesh reiterated the government’s commitment to uplifting the handloom sector. He highlighted the upcoming Weaver's Hall in Mangalagiri, a facility designed to meet international standards, which aims to provide a robust platform for showcasing and promoting local craftsmanship. Lokesh emphasized that the government would continue to champion the region’s traditional handloom industry, recognizing its crucial role in preserving cultural heritage and providing livelihoods.