Rajahmundry: Samarlakota region in Andhra Pradesh's East Godavari district has potential to be developed into an industrial hub, Deputy Chief Minister N Chinna Rajappa said on Wednesday.

Rajappa told reporters while participating in a function on the eve of Sankranti that there is every chance and potential to set up big industries in Samarlakota region in near future, which will benefit youth of the entire district.

"From January 18, 'Smart City' project will be implemented under industrial development schemes of the government and villages would be developed on lines of a smart city, " says Rajappa.

Wishing citizens on the festival, Rajappa said people should celebrate it with great fervour in a traditional manner. The government also declared three-day holiday in for the festival, he added.

He said a set of six essential commodities are being distributed free of cost for the destitute in the state on occasion of the festival.

The minister also announced that agriculture machinery worth Rs 26 lakh will be provided to farmers under RYK scheme. Meanwhile, various competitions and activities were held in the city to mark the festival.