Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who launched various new infrastructure-related projects in Kerala’s Kochi on Sunday, announced that his government us looking at building infrastructure worth Rs 110 lakh crore to power India’s rise.
PM Modi, who inaugurated the five new projects from a single venue, said the definition and scope of infrastructure has changed and it includes roads and connectivity.
“We are looking at quality and quantity infrastructure of Rs 110 lakh crore. India is embarking on broadband connectivity for all our villages. Likewise, India has given top most importance to ‘blue economy’… I call upon researchers and fisheries sector for creating more infrastructure, which will be a great tribute to our fishermen,” he said.
Among the projects were the dedication of BPCL’s Rs 6,000-crore propylene derivatives petrochemicals project to the nation, the launch of Sagarika, the Cochin Port’s new Rs 25 crore international cruise terminal, laying the foundation stone for Cochin Port’s reconstruction of the south coal berth and a new knowledge centre of Cochin Shipyard Ltd Vigyana Sagar among others.
“We have gathered here to celebrate the development of Kerala and India through the wide-ranging sectors which will energise the growth trajectory of Kerala. The projects that have been dedicated will help increase foreign exchange, besides offering wide ranging job opportunities,” he said, adding that economic growth requires augmenting existing capacities.
With the Assembly elections round the corner, the PM also sought to emphasise what his government has done for Kerala. “This year’s budget has sufficient reasons for Kerala to be happy as the second phase of the Kochi Metro has been sanctioned,” he said.
PM Modi also took time to elaborate on the steps taken to bring back the diaspora from various Gulf countries. “The year gone by saw several challenges especially the fight with Covid and we were considerate to the diaspora. We brought back 50 lakh Indians which included a good number of Keralites. In the last year we saw several Gulf countries who have to be thanked for the release of prisoners. We (Centre) are always with you for your needs,” he said.
The PM, who was earlier in Tamil Nadu on Sunday, arrived at the airport of the Southern Naval Command at around 3.15 pm, about half an hour behind schedule.