Modi credits people and cooperative federalism for India’s development journey
New Delhi, October 11: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that during his 25 years as head of government, his faith in two forces of democracy has steadily strengthened: the people of the country and cooperative federalism. He said, “I have always carried the mantra of nation’s development through state’s development.”
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Chennai today on his visit to Tamil Nadu. He first traveled on the Chennai Metro from Porur Bypass Station to Poonamallee Bypass Station and then back. He then visited the Jalakanteshwara Temple and offered prayers. He then visited the Brain Centre at IIT Madras.
Prime Minister laid the foundation stone, inaugurated, and dedicated to the nation various development projects worth over ₹13,000 crore. He then addressed a public meeting.
In his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that India is progressing through scientific advancement and modern infrastructure, drawing inspiration from its cultural heritage. He inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for projects worth ₹13,000 crore in Tamil Nadu today. These projects will strengthen transportation, industry, and trade, and create new employment opportunities for the youth.
The Prime Minister emphasized that widening roads alone is not enough for improved transportation; modern cities require comprehensive infrastructure. To this end, the metro network has been expanded across the country over the past decade. In 2014, metro services were available in only five cities, while now 25 cities have metro services.
Modi stated that today is a historic day for Tamil Nadu. Several completed projects worth approximately ₹13,000 crore have been inaugurated, and the foundation stone for new projects has been laid. These projects will ease daily commutes, boost industry and trade, and create employment opportunities for the state’s youth.
He said that Tamil Nadu’s experiences, from temples to metros, reflect the spirit of India. India draws inspiration from its cultural heritage and moves forward with the advancement of science. Modern infrastructure is creating new opportunities. The nation’s heritage and future aspirations are progressing hand in hand.
The Prime Minister said that port infrastructure in the country is also being strengthened to enable the maritime transport sector to reach new heights. The Central Government is developing the V.O. Chidambaranar Port in Tuticorin into a world-class mega container and green energy hub with an investment of approximately ₹17,000 crore. Upon completion, the port will be able to handle the world’s largest container ships. This will help Tamil Nadu develop into a global hub for industry and transportation.
He said that just a few days ago, he completed 25 years as head of government with the blessings and love of his countrymen. Since taking oath as Chief Minister in October 2001, he has had the opportunity to serve the country as both Chief Minister and Prime Minister.
He said that during these 25 years, his faith in the two forces of democracy, the people of the country and cooperative federalism, has steadily strengthened. He has always moved forward with the mantra of developing the country through the development of the state.
He said that India is today the second largest mobile phone manufacturer in the world. Since 2014, the country’s electronics exports have increased 11-fold, while defense exports have increased 50-fold. Exports of engineering products have also set new records. This growth in the manufacturing sector has created millions of direct and indirect employment opportunities for the youth of the country.
He said that the people of Tamil Nadu have played a vital role in the growth of the manufacturing sector in the country.
