Edited by Deepali Verma
Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation, completed projects and laid the foundation stone for new ones, totalling ₹ 20,140 crore all on January 2. In his address, the Prime Minister talked about recent rains and floods occurring in the state and the consequent losses and remarked how deeply he was moved by the condition of affected families.
“The central government stands with the people of Tamil Nadu in times of crisis. We are committed to providing every possible support to the state government.” The PM said as he laid the foundation stone.
Additionally, he inaugurated and dedicated to the nation 20 projects related to air and seaports, railway, highway, petroleum and natural gas, atomic energy and higher education in Tamil Nadu. PM Modi voiced praises for Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) leader Vijayakanth who passed away days ago as a ‘captain’ in both cinema and politics.
Vijayakanth, as a leader in politics, always placed national interest above anything else, the PM recalled, saying, “I pay my tributes to him and also express my condolences to his family and admirers.”
PM Modi was further in remembrance of eminent farm scientist M S Swaminathan of Tamil Nadu, who passed away recently and reminded people how he ensured food security for the country.
The schedule further included the inauguration of a new terminal building at Tiruchirappalli International Airport. Over ₹ 1,100 crore was spent in developing the two-level new international terminal building that is equipped with the capacity to serve more than 44 lakh passengers annually and about 3500 passengers during peak hours. The new terminal houses state-of-the-art amenities that facilitate peak passenger convenience.
The prime minister had also dedicated to the nation the General Cargo Berth-II (Automobile Export/Import Terminal-II & Capital Dredging Phase-V) of Kamarajar Port in Chennai.
The foundation stones for petroleum and natural gas projects worth more than ₹ 9,000 crore were also laid by the PM. The pivotal projects of the petroleum and natural gas sector will be a step towards fulfilling the industrial, domestic and commercial requirements of energy in the region, as per the government said.
