Prime Minister Modi Unveils Development Projects Worth Over Rs 1 Lakh Crores in Gujarat
Prime Minister Modi Unveils Development Projects Worth Over Rs 1 Lakh Crores in Gujarat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for a wide array of developmental projects valued at over Rs 1,06,000 crores in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. These projects span multiple sectors including railway infrastructure, connectivity, and petrochemicals. The inauguration ceremony took place at the Dedicated Freight Corridor’s Operation Control Centre, marking a significant milestone in the nation's progress.
In a historic move, Modi flagged off 10 new Vande Bharat trains, enriching India's railway network with modern, high-speed connectivity. Additionally, he initiated the construction of a Petrochemicals complex by Petronet LNG at Dahej, anticipated to catalyze hydrogen production and demand for polypropylene within the country.
During his address, Modi highlighted that in the initial 75 days of 2024 alone, projects surpassing Rs 11 lakh crores have been either inaugurated or commenced, showcasing the government's unwavering commitment to national development. Specifically, projects worth approximately Rs 85,000 crores were dedicated to enhancing the railways, underscoring a significant leap towards modernizing India's railway system. Modi also celebrated the foundation stone laying for Ekta Malls in Maharashtra and Gujarat, envisioned to propel India’s cottage industry and handicrafts onto a national platform, thus furthering the Vocal for Local initiative.
The Prime Minister reflected on the transformative journey of the Indian Railways, from overcoming historical challenges to becoming a forefront of the government's developmental agenda. Initiatives like the six-fold budget increase since 2014 and the ambitious target for full railway electrification illustrate the scale of this transformation. Modi emphasized the Made in India ethos, noting the export of domestically manufactured locomotives and coaches as a testament to India's manufacturing prowess.
Criticizing those who perceive these developments as election-driven, Modi clarified that such projects are a part of a broader mission of nation-building, promising a future free from the obstacles faced by previous generations. He showcased the Eastern and Western dedicated freight corridors as milestones achieved in the past decade, significantly enhancing goods transportation efficiency and contributing to the industrial corridor's development.
The event also saw the flagging off of extended routes for Vande Bharat trains and new passenger trains, alongside the inauguration of various railway infrastructure projects, Jan Aushadhi Kendras at railway stations, Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminals, automatic signaling systems, and digital control of stations. The launch of solar-powered stations and the One Station One Product scheme exemplify the government's push towards sustainable development and support for local artisans.
The Prime Minister’s commitment to elevating the Indian Railways to a symbol of modernity and self-reliance was evident as he envisioned a future where the railways continue to advance at the forefront of technological and infrastructural innovation.
Governor of Gujarat, Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel, and Union Minister for Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, were among the dignitaries present at the event, celebrating this monumental stride towards a developed and self-reliant India.