Lakshadweep: In a landmark event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for developmental projects worth over Rs 1150 crores in Kavaratti, Lakshadweep. These projects encompass a wide range of sectors, showcasing the government’s commitment to holistic development in the Union Territory.
Comprehensive Development Across Sectors
The newly inaugurated projects cover key areas such as technology, energy, water resources, healthcare, and education, reflecting a comprehensive approach to uplift the standard of living and infrastructure in Lakshadweep. PM Modi emphasized the government’s unwavering focus on addressing the needs of remote, border, coastal, and island regions.
Empowering Students and Farmers
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi handed out laptops to students under the Laptop Scheme, distributed bicycles to school students under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and provided PM Kisan Credit Cards to farmer and fishermen beneficiaries. These initiatives aim to empower the youth, enhance educational access, and support the agrarian community.
Government’s Commitment to Lakshadweep’s Development
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi acknowledged the unique beauty of Lakshadweep and expressed gratitude for the warm welcome received. He highlighted the government’s efforts to address long-standing issues in remote areas, applauding the people of Lakshadweep for their role in various infrastructure, connectivity, water, health, and childcare projects.
Achievements in Development and Connectivity
PM Modi detailed the achievements in Lakshadweep, including the saturation of PM Awas Yojna (Gramin), the distribution of free ration to beneficiaries, and the availability of PM Kisan Credit Cards and Ayushman Cards. He mentioned the development of Ayushman Arogya Mandir Health and Wellness Centre and the success of Direct Benefit Transfer in curbing corruption.
Strategic Connectivity Initiatives
Highlighting the commitment to enhancing connectivity, PM Modi referred to the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fiber Connection (KLI – SOFC) project, ensuring 100 times faster internet for the residents. He emphasized the potential of developing Lakshadweep as a logistics hub and the progress in providing piped water to every household through the Low-Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) plant at Kadmat.
Focus on Education and Innovation
The Prime Minister recognized the contributions of Lakshadweep’s youth, facilitating their innovation and education. Initiatives like distributing laptops and bicycles aim to empower the island’s youth. PM Modi noted the establishment of educational institutions for arts and science and a polytechnic institute, addressing the lack of top educational institutions in previous years.
Economic Opportunities and Conservation Efforts
PM Modi underscored Lakshadweep’s potential in the global seafood market and the export of local Tuna fish to Japan. He emphasized the exploration of seaweed farming and the significance of protecting the fragile ecology. The solar power plant at Kavaratti, the first battery-backed solar power project, aligns with efforts toward sustainable development.
Lakshadweep on the Global Map
Highlighting Lakshadweep’s role in India’s development, PM Modi spoke about efforts to place the Union Territory on the international tourism map. Under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, a destination-specific master plan is being drafted. Lakshadweep, with two blue-flag beaches and water villa projects, is becoming a prime destination for cruise tourism.
Call to Explore India First
PM Modi reiterated his call for Indians to explore at least fifteen places in the country before planning international trips. He invited citizens to visit Lakshadweep, emphasizing its unparalleled beauty. The surge in tourist influx showcases the growing interest in Lakshadweep as a captivating travel destination.
Commitment to Ease of Living
Assuring the people of Lakshadweep, PM Modi pledged the central government’s continuous efforts to ensure ease of living, ease of travel, and ease of doing business. He concluded by stating that Lakshadweep would play a pivotal role in shaping a developed India. Lieutenant Governor of Lakshadweep, Shri Praful Patel, was present on the occasion among other dignitaries.
