In a significant move to enhance infrastructure and manufacturing in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched and inaugurated several development projects valued at approximately ₹35,000 crore in Gujarat. During the ‘NaMo for Viksit Bharat’ event in Vadodara, Modi emphasized the government’s dedication to advancing the nation’s transportation network, particularly with the completion of the 2,800-km dedicated freight corridors. He contrasted this progress with what he described as the former Congress-led government’s sluggishness in executing key infrastructure initiatives.
Highlighting the benefits of the modern freight network, Modi addressed critics of the project, humorously labeling them as “Naraz Fufa” (angry uncle). He underscored that the freight corridors would significantly cut down travel time, fuel usage, and logistics expenses, while also bolstering trade. This development, he asserted, would be advantageous for farmers by facilitating quicker transportation of their produce to major markets. According to the Prime Minister, over 430 freight trains now run daily on the Eastern and Western Dedicated Freight Corridors, achieving a reduction in freight journey times from about 30 hours by road to just 10–12 hours by rail.
Modi also took the opportunity to critique Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s youth outreach initiative, cautioning young Indians against what he described as “Jhooth Ki Goonj” (echo of lies). He encouraged the nation’s youth to gain expertise in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, emphasizing growth prospects in renewable and nuclear energy sectors. Modi’s remarks reflect a broader call for India’s younger generation to engage with future-oriented industries.
The Prime Minister highlighted India’s strides in domestic manufacturing since 2014, specifically in producing railway coaches, locomotives, and wagons. He also noted the progress in solar manufacturing, mentioning that rooftop solar installations now benefit 55 lakh families, including about 11 lakh in Gujarat alone. Modi pointed out that infrastructure development in railways, roads, airports, metros, pipelines, and housing is generating substantial employment opportunities nationwide.
Further, Modi articulated a vision for India to become a global leader in artificial intelligence and advanced technologies. He emphasized the concurrent development of the energy and technology sectors necessary for achieving this goal, underscoring the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and industrial growth across the country.