PM Modi Launches Projects Worth Rs 13,000-Cr in Tamil Nadu
Inaugurating projects, dedicating infrastructure to the nation and laying foundation stones, Modi said the initiatives would improve connectivity, ease daily commuting, strengthen trade and industry, and create employment opportunities for the state’s youth.
The Prime Minister highlighted the expansion of India’s metro rail network from around 250 km across five cities in 2014 to more than 1,100 km across 25 cities at present.
He said efficient public transport was essential for managing urbanisation and improving the ease of living.
Modi also referred to his visit to the Brain Research Centre at IIT Madras and the inauguration of an additional stretch of the Chennai Metro.
He said India’s development was progressing by drawing inspiration from its cultural heritage while building modern infrastructure.
Emphasising Tamil Nadu’s industrial potential, the Prime Minister said initiatives such as Make in India and Vocal for Local had strengthened domestic manufacturing.
He noted that India had become the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturer, with electronics exports increasing eleven-fold since 2014 and defence exports growing fifty-fold.
He said an advanced lubricant base oil project for which the foundation stone was laid would generate employment and help reduce the country’s dependence on imports.
Infrastructure development would also support construction workers, engineers, technicians and industries supplying cement, steel and equipment, he added.
Highlighting port-led development, Modi referred to an investment of around Rs 17,000 crore to transform VOC Port in Thoothukudi into a mega container and green energy hub capable of handling ultra-large container vessels. He said improved port infrastructure and operational efficiency would help Indian products reach international markets faster.
The Prime Minister also highlighted support for Tamil Nadu’s fisheries sector under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana and other schemes. The initiatives include modernising fishing harbours, developing fish landing centres, improving cold-chain facilities and providing transport support to preserve fish freshness.
He also referred to the modernisation of Chennai Fishing Harbour and the development of a seaweed park, besides the availability of working capital to fishermen through the Kisan Credit Card scheme.
Increased fish production had helped Indian seafood exports reach record levels in volume and value during the previous year, he said.
Extending Navratri greetings, Modi said Tamil Nadu was a sacred land associated with Shiva and Shakti.
He also paid tribute to Jayaprakash Narayan and Nanaji Deshmukh on their birth anniversaries.
Recalling his 25 years as head of a government since taking oath as Gujarat Chief Minister in October 2001, Modi reiterated his commitment to cooperative federalism and state-led development.
He called for collective efforts to achieve the vision of a developed India through a developed Tamil Nadu.
