Assam: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi unveiled a new chapter of development in Guwahati, Assam, by inaugurating and laying the foundation stone for projects totaling Rs 11,000 crores. The key areas of emphasis encompass sports, medical infrastructure, and improved connectivity. In a symbolic gesture, PM Modi expressed gratitude for the divine blessings of Maa Kamakhya, marking the occasion with a commitment to propel Assam’s development.
Boosting Connectivity and Tourism: The Prime Minister underscored the strategic importance of the projects, aiming to enhance connectivity not only within the North Eastern states but also with neighboring Southeast Asian countries. The development is poised to open avenues for employment in the tourism sector and create opportunities for budding sports talents in Assam.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance: PM Modi laid the foundation stone for Maa Kamakhya Divya Lok Pariyojana, a project aimed at facilitating easier access for devotees and augmenting the overall experience. He applauded the state government’s efforts and emphasized Assam’s potential to become a tourism gateway for the North East.
Preserving Heritage and Accelerating Development: Highlighting the importance of Indian pilgrimage sites, the Prime Minister lamented past governments’ neglect of cultural heritage. He commended recent policies focusing on both ‘Vikas’ (development) and ‘Virasat’ (heritage), noting their positive impact on educational institutes, healthcare, and overall infrastructure in Assam.
Government’s Focus on Tourism and Development: PM Modi stressed the government’s commitment to ‘Ease of Living,’ citing initiatives such as housing for the poor, water and electricity supply, and healthcare under various schemes. He highlighted the surge in tourist footfall at prominent sites like Varanasi, Kashi, Mahakal Lok, and Kedardham, drawing parallels with the anticipated impact on Assam after the completion of Maa Kamakhya Divya Lok Pariyojana.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Revolution: The Prime Minister credited the double-engine government at the center and state level for the comprehensive development in Assam. He provided statistics showcasing the substantial increase in railway tracks, the boost in the Railway budget, and the construction of national highways. The projects announced are set to fortify connectivity to Itanagar, marking a significant leap in the region’s development.
Empowering Citizens and Ensuring Basic Facilities: PM Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to guaranteeing basic facilities for the poor, women, youth, and farmers. He highlighted the success of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra and ‘Modi’s guarantee vehicle,’ which aims to extend the benefits of government schemes to those in need.
Commitment to Sustainable Development: The Prime Minister outlined the government’s vision for simplifying citizens’ lives and committed to spending Rs 11 lakh crore on infrastructure. He announced the Rooftop Solar Scheme, aimed at reducing electricity bills to zero for one crore families, creating income opportunities through electricity generation.
Women Empowerment and Regional Peace: PM Modi discussed initiatives to create Lakhpati Didis and provide new opportunities for women through self-help groups and schemes like Ayushman. He emphasized the establishment of permanent peace in previously disturbed areas of Assam, citing major peace agreements and the surrender of youth involved in violence.
Looking Forward: Expressing his vision for the future, PM Modi aspired for the North East to develop similarly to East Asia, becoming a trade hub through enhanced connectivity. He emphasized the government’s dedication to realizing the goal of a happy and prosperous India, aiming to make it the third-largest economy globally by 2047.
