PM Modi Unveils Rs 11,200 Crore Development Projects in Maharashtra
In a major boost to Maharashtra’s development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today laid the foundation stone and inaugurated several projects via video conferencing, with a total worth exceeding Rs 11,200 crore.
Maharashtra Development Initiatives
Addressing the event, PM Modi emphasized the importance of accelerating Maharashtra’s development to improve the quality of life for its residents. The Prime Minister highlighted the inauguration of the Pune Metro section between District Court and Swargate and laid the foundation stone for the Swargate-Katraj extension under Phase-1 of the Pune Metro project. These initiatives, he said, are poised to improve connectivity and ease urban congestion in Pune.
“Pune’s growing population requires proactive measures to expand its infrastructure and connectivity. The current state government is working towards modernizing Pune’s public transport to meet these challenges,” the Prime Minister remarked.
Pune Metro Expansion and Infrastructure Boost
The Prime Minister recalled the prolonged discussions around Pune Metro that began in 2008 and expressed satisfaction that his government took swift action to kickstart the project in 2016. He noted that, within a few years, the Pune Metro has gained momentum and is expanding rapidly, contrasting it with the previous government’s lack of progress.
“Today, while we inaugurated the District Court to Swargate section, we also laid the foundation for the Swargate-Katraj line,” he said, adding that this demonstrates the government’s commitment to modernizing Pune’s infrastructure.
Boost to Solapur Airport and Industrial Development
PM Modi also inaugurated the upgraded Solapur Airport, establishing direct air connectivity to Solapur city. The airport’s new terminal facilities are expected to ease travel for devotees of Bhagwan Vitthal and bolster tourism, industry, and business in the region.
Additionally, the Prime Minister dedicated the Bidkin Industrial Node, a key segment of the Auric City project, to the nation. Spanning over 8,000 acres, the Bidkin Industrial Area is projected to attract massive investments and generate thousands of jobs. PM Modi underlined that this development was made possible through the efficient functioning of the “double-engine government” of Maharashtra and the Centre.
Tribute to Savitribai Phule and Women Empowerment
Reinforcing his commitment to women’s empowerment, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for a memorial dedicated to Savitribai Phule, at the site of her first girls’ school in Bhidewada, Pune. The memorial will include a skill development center and a library, serving as a lasting tribute to Phule’s pioneering efforts in education and women’s rights.
“The movement for women’s education started here with Savitribai Phule. This memorial will inspire future generations and further the campaign for women’s empowerment,” said the Prime Minister.
Modernization and Heritage Preservation
The Prime Minister reiterated that Maharashtra’s development must be aligned with preserving its cultural heritage. He emphasized that both modern infrastructure and the benefits of development must reach every section of society. “Only when every citizen is part of this growth story can we achieve the goal of a ‘Viskit Maharashtra, Viksit Bharat,’” he concluded.
The virtual event was attended by the Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C P Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, and several other dignitaries.
