First Electricity Lights in Tribal Gudem – Pawan Kalyan’s Initiative Brings Power to Andhra’s Hilltop Village

First Electricity Lights Shine in Tribal Gudem: A New Dawn for Andhra Pradesh’s Hill Tribal Communities:

In a heartwarming story of hope and progress, the remote Gudem tribal village in Alluri Sitarama Raju district, Andhra Pradesh, witnessed electric light for the first time since India’s independence.
Thanks to the initiative of Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, electricity finally reached this hilltop settlement — bringing brightness, joy, and a renewed sense of belonging to a community long left in darkness. 

This milestone not only lights up homes but also opens new possibilities for tribal empowerment and eco-tourism development in one of Andhra Pradesh’s most secluded forest regions.

The Village That Time Forgot

Nestled deep in the forests of Ananthagiri mandal, within Rompalli gram panchayat limits, Gudem is a small tribal hamlet that had remained cut off from basic infrastructure.
Located about 50 kilometers from the mandal headquarters, the village has just 17 tribal families, living in conditions where even torchlight and kerosene lamps were luxuries.

For decades, villagers endured nights of fear — wild animals lurking nearby, children unable to study after sunset, and life dictated by daylight. Despite repeated appeals to authorities, no tangible help arrived — until now.

Lighting Up Gudem: A 9.6 km Path Through Forests

In response to villagers’ heartfelt plea, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan personally intervened. Understanding their plight with empathy, he directed the Alluri district collector and the Andhra Pradesh Electricity Department to take immediate action.

The task was no small feat:

• 9.6 kilometers of power lines were laid through dense forests and hilly terrain,

• 217 electricity poles installed to reach all 17 homes,

• Each house received five bulbs and one fan,

• The total project cost exceeded ₹80 lakh, funded through central government support and the state electricity department, under the Non-PVGEET scheme of the Ministry of Power, Government of India.

On Kartika Pournami, under the soft glow of the full moon, the people of Gudem experienced the sparkle of electric lights for the first time. The moment was celebrated with smiles, gratitude, and a sense of historic change.

A Symbol of Inclusion and Progress

This electrification symbolizes more than infrastructure — it represents respect, dignity, and visibility for tribal communities who have long been on the periphery.

Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan’s initiative shows how policy empathy and field-level execution can directly transform lives. What once seemed an impossible dream — electricity at the edge of civilization — is now a living reality.

Beyond basic comfort, electricity enables education, healthcare, digital access, and most importantly, a connection to the outside world.

Tribal Empowerment Through Eco-Tourism

Electrification in Gudem can be a catalyst for community-based eco-tourism — a model that honors tribal heritage while creating sustainable livelihoods.

Eco-Tourism Opportunities:

• Homestays: With power supply, tribal families can host responsible travelers seeking authentic rural experiences.

• Cultural Tourism: Visitors can witness tribal dances, forest festivals, and handicraft traditions unique to Alluri Sitarama Raju district.

• Forest Trails & Trekking: The region’s lush biodiversity offers potential for guided eco-treks led by trained local youth.

• Agro & Forest Produce: Tribals can showcase their organic produce — like honey, herbs, and bamboo crafts — to eco-conscious visitors.

By combining electrification with sustainable tourism, Gudem can become a model “Eco-Tribal Village”, demonstrating how modern infrastructure and traditional culture can coexist beautifully. 

Challenges Ahead

While the electrification milestone is remarkable, long-term development requires sustained attention:

• Road connectivity to the village remains difficult, especially during monsoons.

• Healthcare and education facilities are still limited.

• Training tribal youth in hospitality and environmental management will be vital for tourism growth.

• Maintaining forest harmony and cultural integrity must remain top priorities.

A Beacon for Future Projects

Gudem’s success story underscores a powerful message: when governance meets compassion, even the most remote corners can shine.
The project has now become a symbol of rural transformation, showing how electrification is not just about lights — it’s about life, dignity, and opportunity.

This initiative also sets a precedent for expanding eco-tourism-linked electrification projects across other forested tribal belts of Andhra Pradesh — from Paderu to Rampachodavaram, ensuring that light and livelihood reach every hilltop home.

Conclusion

On the night of Kartika Pournami, when moonlight met the newly glowing bulbs of Gudem, a chapter of transformation began.
In a remote tribal hamlet once forgotten, light now shines — illuminating paths to education, empowerment, and eco-tourism.
With continued care and sustainable planning, Gudem can become more than a success story — it can be a guiding light for inclusive development across tribal India.