On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for a series of development projects in Gujarat, collectively valued at approximately ₹35,000 crore. During the ‘NaMo for Viksit Bharat’ event in Vadodara, Modi underscored the government’s focus on bolstering infrastructure and manufacturing. He highlighted the completion of India’s 2,800-km dedicated freight corridors as a significant achievement in enhancing the country’s transport network.
Modi criticized the previous Congress-led administration for what he described as procrastination in executing major infrastructure projects. He further addressed detractors of the freight corridor initiative, humorously labeling them as “Naraz Fufa” (angry uncle). He emphasized that this modern freight network is poised to decrease travel time, fuel usage, and logistics expenses, while simultaneously fortifying trade. This development, he noted, would also benefit farmers by expediting the transport of agricultural goods to key markets.
The Prime Minister outlined the progress in freight operations, stating that over 430 freight trains are now running daily on the Eastern and Western Dedicated Freight Corridors. He mentioned that freight journeys, which previously took about 30 hours by road, can now be completed in 10 to 12 hours via the dedicated rail network.
In a political jab, Modi addressed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s youth outreach efforts and cautioned young Indians against the “Jhooth Ki Goonj” (echo of lies). He encouraged the youth to gain expertise in artificial intelligence and pointed out emerging opportunities in sectors such as renewable and nuclear energy. Modi also highlighted the nation’s advancements in manufacturing, noting a significant increase in domestic production of railway coaches, locomotives, and wagons since 2014.
Furthermore, Modi emphasized the rapid growth in solar energy, mentioning that rooftop solar installations have reached 55 lakh families, including around 11 lakh homes in Gujarat. He pointed out that infrastructure advancements across various sectors, including railways, roads, airports, metros, pipelines, and housing, are generating substantial employment opportunities. Modi concluded by asserting that India is building the necessary energy and technology ecosystem to position itself as a global leader in artificial intelligence and other advanced industries.