Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for projects worth over ₹13,000 crore in Chennai. Addressing the event, Prime Minister Modi said, “We are inaugurating several completed projects and laying the foundation stones for new ones. Some projects will ease daily commutes, while others will strengthen industry and commerce. Furthermore, this will create employment opportunities for the youth across Tamil Nadu.”
“I have had the opportunity to work with many Chief Ministers.”
On this occasion, Prime Minister Modi shared his experiences of working with various Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu. He said, “As Chief Minister, I had many opportunities to interact with Karunanidhi and Jayalalithaa. After becoming Prime Minister, I had the opportunity to work with Jayalalithaa, O. Panneerselvam, E. Palaniswami, and M.K. Stalin. Governments changed, but my resolve to ensure Tamil Nadu’s development and serve its people remained steadfast. Now, we are continuing this journey with Chief Minister Joseph Vijay.”
The Prime Minister mentioned that, a few days ago, he completed 25 years in government service, sustained by the blessings and love of the people of the country. Since taking the oath as the Chief Minister of Gujarat in October 2001, the people have given him the opportunity to serve as Chief Minister and, subsequently, as Prime Minister. He stated that throughout this 25-year journey, his faith in two key pillars of democracy—the people of the country and cooperative federalism—has consistently strengthened. The Prime Minister remarked that he has always moved forward with the mantra that the development of the states forms the foundation of the nation’s development. “Urban Development is a Priority in Tamil Nadu”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, “Today, urban development in Tamil Nadu is a key priority for us. I have always believed that urbanization is not a challenge but an opportunity, and public transport plays a crucial role in it. Good transport makes people’s lives easier.”
Speaking about the expansion of the Chennai Metro, the Prime Minister noted that in 2014, the country’s metro network spanned approximately 250 kilometers, a figure that has now grown to over 1,100 kilometers. He added that the expansion of the Chennai Metro would further extend this network and provide better transport facilities for commuters. It is noteworthy that Prime Minister Modi inaugurated a new metro line in Chennai.
The Prime Minister also spoke about improving the efficiency of India’s ports. He noted that the speed and efficiency of Indian ports have improved over the last few years. Exports and trade have benefited from the halving of turnaround time—the duration from a ship’s arrival at the port to its departure. He stated that, thanks to enhanced port operations, Indian products are now reaching global markets faster than before. “We want to build a Tamil Nadu that reaches new heights…”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “We want to build a Tamil Nadu that consistently reaches new heights, and we stand with you, fully committed to providing all necessary support from the Central Government. Together, let us realize the vision of a developed India through a developed Tamil Nadu.”
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