Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi marked the commencement of 2024 by inaugurating and dedicating a slew of development projects exceeding Rs 20,000 crores in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu. This significant initiative encompasses vital sectors such as rail, road, oil and gas, and shipping, promising to propel the state’s progress to new heights.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi extended New Year wishes and expressed delight at initiating his public programs for the year in Tamil Nadu. Emphasizing the transformative impact of the projects, valued at over Rs 20,000 crores, Modi lauded their potential to fortify Tamil Nadu’s infrastructure, spanning roadways, railways, ports, airports, energy, and petroleum pipelines. He highlighted the employment opportunities and enhanced travel prospects that these projects would bring to the state.
Acknowledging the recent challenges faced by Tamil Nadu due to heavy rains, Modi expressed condolences and assured the state of the central government’s unwavering support. He paid tribute to the late Thiru Vijaykanth, recognizing his contributions in both cinema and politics and honored the legacy of Dr. M S Swaminathan in advancing food security for the nation.
In alignment with the Azadi Ka Amrit Kaal vision for the next 25 years, Modi underscored the role of Tamil Nadu in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation. He commended the state’s rich cultural heritage, home to luminaries like Saint Thiruvalluvar, and Subramania Bharati, and scientific minds such as C V Raman. The Prime Minister highlighted the global recognition of Tamil culture through initiatives like the New Parliament’s sacred Sengol and Kashi Tamil and Kashi Saurashtra Sangamam.
“Reflecting on Tiruchirappalli’s heritage, Modi praised the governance models of past dynasties and reiterated his belief in the continuous expansion of Tamil cultural inspiration contributing to the nation’s development”.
Highlighting the government’s emphasis on physical infrastructure, Modi showcased India’s growth in the last decade, breaking into the top 5 economies globally. He emphasized Tamil Nadu’s role as a prime ambassador for Make in India, benefiting from substantial global investments.
The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to the state’s development, evidenced by the frequent visits of more than 40 Union Ministers over 400 times in the past year. Modi asserted that India’s progress is intertwined with Tamil Nadu’s advancement, emphasizing connectivity as a catalyst for both business and improved quality of life.
“Detailing the unveiled projects, Modi mentioned the New Terminal Building at Tiruchirappalli International Airport, set to enhance connectivity to East Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. He lauded the airport’s capacity increase and its potential to introduce the world to Tamil culture and heritage”.
The Prime Minister highlighted five new railway projects and road sector developments connecting significant centers of faith and tourism. The focus on port-led development in the last decade showcased projects transforming coastal areas and benefiting fishermen, including a dedicated ministry and budget for fisheries.
In the petroleum and natural gas sector, Modi inaugurated projects worth over Rs 9000 crore, contributing to the region’s energy needs and generating employment opportunities. He also inaugurated the Demonstration Fast Reactor Fuel Reprocessing Plant at Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, a unique facility designed by Indian scientists.
