Vinod Bhat
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated, laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth Rs 26,000 crore in Bikaner, Rajasthan today. Addressing the occasion, he welcomed the large gathering at the event, acknowledging the significant participation of people from 18 states and union territories who joined online. He highlighted the presence of several governors, chief ministers, lieutenant governors, and other public representatives. The Prime Minister extended his greetings to all esteemed dignitaries and citizens connected from across the country.
Shri Modi stated that he arrived at the event after seeking the blessings of Karni Mata, emphasizing that these blessings further strengthen the nation’s resolve to build a developed India. Mentioning the inauguration and foundation stone laying of development projects worth ₹26,000 crore, he underscored their significance in advancing the country’s growth. He extended his congratulations to the citizens for these transformative initiatives.
Highlighting the ongoing transformation of India’s infrastructure, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to modernization, the Prime Minister pointed to the rapid advancements in roads, airports, railways, and railway stations over the past 11 years. “India is now investing six times more in infrastructure development compared to previous years, a progress that has captured global attention”, remarked the Prime Minister, pointing out iconic infrastructure projects across the country, citing the remarkable Chenab Bridge in the north, the Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh, and the Bogibeel Bridge in Assam in the east. In western India, he noted the Atal Setu in Mumbai, while in the south, he highlighted the Pamban Bridge, India’s first of its kind.
Emphasising India’s continuous efforts to modernize its railway network, Shri Modi underlined the introduction of Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat, and Namo Bharat trains as symbols of the country’s new speed and progress. He remarked that nearly 70 routes now operate Vande Bharat trains, bringing modern rail connectivity to remote regions. He further pointed out the significant infrastructure advancements over the past 11 years, including the construction of hundreds of road overbridges and underbridges, as well as the laying of over 34,000 kilometers of new railway tracks. He noted that unmanned level crossings on broad gauge lines have been eliminated, enhancing safety. Shri Modi also highlighted the swift development of dedicated freight corridors to streamline cargo transportation and the ongoing construction of India’s first bullet train project. Alongside these efforts, the modernization of more than 1,300 railway stations is being carried out to improve passenger experience.
Prime Minister stressed that the modernized railway stations have been named Amrit Bharat Stations and that over 100 such stations have been completed. He noted that social media users have witnessed the striking transformation of these stations, which serve as showcases of local art and history. He pointed out significant examples, including Rajasthan’s Mandalgarh station, reflecting the grandeur of Rajput traditions, and Bihar’s Thawe station, depicting the sacred presence of Maa Thawewali along with Madhubani artwork. The Orchha railway station in Madhya Pradesh exudes the divine essence of Lord Ram, while the design of Srirangam station draws inspiration from the Sri Ranganatha Swamy temple. Gujarat’s Dakor station pays homage to Ranchhodrai ji, Tiruvannamalai station follows Dravidian architectural principles, and Begumpet station embodies the architectural legacy of the Kakatiya dynasty. The Prime Minister underscored that these Amrit Bharat Stations not only preserve India’s thousands-of-years-old heritage but also serve as catalysts for tourism growth across states, creating new employment opportunities for youth. He urged the people to ensure the cleanliness and safety of the stations as they were the true owners of these infrastructure.
Shri Modi asserted that Pakistan can never win a direct confrontation with India, recalling its repeated failures in past conflicts. He emphasized that, unable to succeed in open battles, Pakistan has long used terrorism as a weapon against India, resorting to violence and creating an atmosphere of fear. He declared that Pakistan had underestimated India’s resolve, stating that under his leadership, the nation stands strong and unwavering. “Any terrorist attack on India would result in severe consequences, with Pakistan paying a heavy price—borne by its military and its economy”, stated Shri Modi.
Background
In line with his commitment to constantly improve and enhance the rail infrastructure in the country, Prime Minister inaugurated 103 redeveloped Amrit Stations in 86 districts across 18 States and Union Territories of India developed at a cost of over Rs 1,100 crore. Over 1,300 stations are being redeveloped with modern facilities, designed to reflect regional architecture and enhance passenger amenities under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. Deshnoke railway station, serving pilgrims and tourists visiting the Karni Mata Temple among others, is inspired with temple architecture and arch and column theme. Begumpet railway station in Telangana is inspired by the architecture of the Kakatiya empire. Thawe station in Bihar incorporates various murals and art works representing Maa Thawewali, one of the 52 Shakti Peethas and depicting Madhubani paintings. Dakor station in Gujarat is inspired by Ranchhodrai Ji Maharaj. The redeveloped Amrit stations across India integrate modern infrastructure with cultural heritage, passenger-centric amenities including those for Divyangjan and sustainable practices to enhance the travel experience.
Indian Railway is marching towards 100% electrification of its network, making railway operations more efficient and environment friendly. In line with this, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of Churu-Sadulpur rail line (58 km) and dedicated to the Nation Suratgarh-Phalodi (336 km); Phulera-Degana (109 km); Udaipur-Himmatnagar (210 km); Phalodi-Jaisalmer (157 km) and Samdari-Barmer (129 km) rail line electrification.
In a major boost to road infrastructure in the state, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for construction of 3 Vehicle Underpasses, widening and strengthening of National highways. He will also dedicate 7 roadways projects in Rajasthan. The roadways projects, worth over Rs 4850 crore, will facilitate smoother movement of goods and people. The highways extend up to the Indo-Pak border, enhancing accessibility for security forces and strengthening India’s defence infrastructure.
Furthering the vision of electricity for all and green and clean energy, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of power projects including Solar projects at Bikaner and Nawa in Didwana Kuchaman, and Transmission Systems for Evacuation of Power Part B PowerGrid Sirohi Transmission Ltd and Part E PowerGrid Mewar Transmission Ltd. He will also inaugurate power projects including Solar project at Bikaner, Transmission system for Evacuation of PowerGrid Neemuch and from Bikaner Complex, Augmentation of transformation capacity at Fatehgarh-II Power Station which will provide clean energy and reduce carbon emission.
Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone, inaugurated and dedicated 25 important state government projects across Rajasthan to enhance infrastructure, connectivity, power supply, health services, and water availability in the state. These include laying of foundation stone and dedication to the nation of projects for upgrading and maintaining 12 State Highways covering a total length of over 750 km worth over Rs 3,240 crore; further expansion under the program includes an additional 900 km of new highways. Prime Minister inaugurated power projects at Bikaner and Udaipur. He also inaugurated Nursing Colleges in Rajsamand, Pratapgarh, Bhilwara, Dholpur which will play a key role in enhancing health infrastructure in the state. He also laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation various water infrastructure projects in the region including Rural Water Supply and Fluorosis Mitigation Project in Jhunjhunu District, Restructuring of Urban Water Supply Schemes in 7 Towns of Pali District under AMRUT 2.0, among others.
