Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi marked a momentous day in Chhattisgarh as he inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for a series of transformative development projects worth an estimated Rs 27,000 crore. During his visit to Jagdalpur, Bastar, Chhattisgarh, the Prime Minister emphasized that these projects are crucial steps toward realizing the dream of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ or a developed India. The timing of this monumental endeavor is particularly apt as India and the Dominican Republic are celebrating 25 years of diplomatic relations.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
In her welcoming address to the Vice President of the Dominican Republic, H.E. Ms. Raquel Peña Rodríguez, President Smt. Droupadi Murmu highlighted the warm and friendly relations between India and the Dominican Republic. These ties are built upon shared democratic values and a convergence of perspectives on global issues. She also noted that the Dominican Republic is India’s 8th largest trading partner in Latin America, with significant potential for expanding trade in various sectors.
Enhancing Infrastructure
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of comprehensive infrastructure development in driving India’s progress. He revealed that this year’s infrastructure outlay amounts to a substantial 10 lakh crore, representing a six-fold increase. He highlighted the critical role of steel in various infrastructure projects, including railways, roads, airports, power generation, transportation, housing for the underprivileged, and educational and healthcare institutions.
A Modern Steel Plant in Bastar
The inauguration of NMDC Steel Ltd’s Steel Plant at Nagarnar in Bastar district, valued at over Rs 23,800 crores, stands as a testament to India’s journey towards self-reliance in steel production. Prime Minister Modi stressed that this state-of-the-art steel plant in Bastar will energize the automobile, engineering, and defense manufacturing sectors. It is expected to strengthen the armed forces and boost defense exports, while also generating employment opportunities for approximately 50,000 youth in Bastar and neighboring regions.
Connectivity and Railways
The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to improving connectivity, mentioning economic corridors and modern highways in Chhattisgarh. He noted that the state’s railways budget has increased nearly twentyfold since 2014, with significant investments in railway infrastructure. Taroki was introduced to a new railway line, benefiting from the Taroki – Raipur DEMU Train Service. The rail line doubling project between Jagdalpur and Dantewada is expected to reduce logistics costs and enhance travel convenience.
Upgrading Railway Stations
President Modi shared news of the redevelopment and modernization of railway stations in Chhattisgarh under the Amrit Bharat Station Yojana. He emphasized the importance of these upgrades in enhancing passenger facilities, particularly at Jagdalpur station, which will soon become a major transportation hub. Free Wi-Fi services have also been extended to over 120 stations in the state, contributing to improved connectivity and access to information.
A Promise of Progress
The Prime Minister expressed his delight in witnessing Chhattisgarh’s progress, particularly the state’s achievement of 100% electrification of railway tracks and the operation of the Vande Bharat Train. He assured that the development projects unveiled on this day will accelerate the pace of progress, create new employment opportunities, and stimulate new industries within the state. Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to support Chhattisgarh’s development journey.
