PM Modi Launches ₹2,700 Crore Development Projects in Puducherry

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched development projects worth over ₹2,700 crore during his visit to Puducherry on March 1, 2024. The initiatives focus on enhancing healthcare, infrastructure, education, and sustainable growth in the Union Territory. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister received a warm welcome from K Kailasanathan, the Lieutenant Governor, and N Rangasamy, the Chief Minister of Puducherry.

Healthcare Accessibility and Infrastructure Improvement

In his address to the public, Modi emphasized the importance of accessible, available, and affordable healthcare for all citizens. He highlighted the Centre’s Ayushman Bharat scheme, which aims to provide health coverage to millions of families across India. The Prime Minister reaffirmed that enhancing public health systems is a key priority for the government.

The projects launched during this visit are designed to strengthen various sectors, including urban services, industrial growth, education, and healthcare. Modi pointed out that Puducherry has been included in the special assistance for capital investment scheme, which previously applied only to states. This inclusion is expected to enhance infrastructure, particularly in terms of road connectivity.

Advancements in Urban Services and Education

Among the significant initiatives inaugurated were electric buses under the PM e-Bus Seva program, aimed at promoting environmentally friendly public transport. Additionally, Modi launched the Integrated Command and Control Centre as part of the Smart City Mission, alongside housing projects for economically weaker sections under the CITIIS initiative. Other key developments include important sewerage and water supply projects initiated by the Puducherry government, which are anticipated to improve urban services and enhance residents’ quality of life.

Highlighting the role of youth in nation-building, Modi inaugurated the new Dr APJ Abdul Kalam engineering block and updated hostel facilities at the National Institute of Technology Karaikal. He stated that these developments would significantly bolster technical education for numerous students. Upgrades at Pondicherry University were also noted as part of the commitment to improve educational infrastructure.

Modi reiterated his vision for a “BEST Puducherry,” referring to the focus on Business, Education, Spirituality, and Tourism during his previous visits. He stated that the progress made in the last four and a half years reflects the effectiveness of this approach in governance and development. The Prime Minister expressed his determination to transform Puducherry into a developed region as part of the broader goal for a developed India, asserting that the “double engine” government would continue to work towards this mission.

During the event, Chief Minister N Rangasamy honored Modi with a traditional shawl, along with a silver idol of Lord Murugan, a silver spear, and a Thanjavur painting, symbolizing respect and cultural appreciation.

This visit marks a substantial commitment from the central government towards infrastructure and welfare initiatives in Puducherry, emphasizing the ongoing dedication to the region’s growth and development.