Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched several infrastructure projects on Sunday during his visit to Chennai, Tamil Nadu as the state goes to assembly elections this year. At an event in Chennai, the prime minister lauded the farmers of the state for their record food grain production.
“I want to appreciate the farmers of Tamil Nadu for record food grain production and good use of water resources… We have to do whatever we can do to conserve water. Always remember the mantra of ‘Per Drop, More Crop’,” he said.
Among the key infrastructure projects the PM inaugurated is the Phase I extension of the Chennai Metro Rail.
“We’re inaugurating the 9-km stretch of the Chennai metro Phase-I project. This project has been completed on schedule despite the global pandemic, and the civil construction activities were done by Indian contractors,” PM Modi said.
“This is in line with Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” he added.
He further stated that over Rs 63,000 crore has been set aside for a 119-km of Phase-II of the project in this year’s budget.
“This is one of the largest projects sanctioned for any city in one go. The focus on urban transport will boost ease of living here,” the prime minister said.
In addition to the launching of these projects, PM Modi also paid tribute to the martyrs of the Pulwama attack in 2019.
“Two years ago, the Pulwama attack happened on this day. We pay homage to all the martyrs we lost in that attack.
“We are proud of our security forces. Their bravery will continue to inspire generations,” he said.
The prime minister also handed over to the state the indigenously designed and manufactured main battle tank Arjun Mark 1A.
“Tamil Nadu is already the leading automobile manufacturing hub of India. Now, I see Tamil Nadu evolving as the tank manufacturing hub of India,” he said, adding that the defence corridor in Tamil Nadu has also received an investment commitment of Rs 8,100 crore.
The PM also spoke about his government’s commitment to the fishermen community, and announced upgrades to fishing-related infrastructure.
“In the budget, there are provisions to ensure extra credit mechanism for fishermen. Infrastructure related to fishing is being upgraded. Modern fishing harbours will come up in 5 centres, including Chennai,” he said, adding that the rightful interests of the community will be protected, including those who have been apprehended by Sri Lanka.
“The problems of our fishermen are longstanding. Without going into the history of this problem, I want to assure our fishermen community that my government is committed to protect their rightful interests in Sri Lanka.”
