Delhi, 26 July (H.S.): PM Narendra Modi arrived in Tamil Nadu after a two-nation visit to the Maldives and UK on Saturday. He laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth over Rs 4,900 crore in Tuticorin. Addressing the public, he paid respects to Kargil martyrs and expressed gratitude for visiting Lord Shri Ram's holy land post his foreign trip, highlighting the historic India-UK Free Trade Agreement as a symbol of India's growing global trust and self-confidence.

PM Modi emphasized the importance of infrastructure and energy in Tamil Nadu's development over the past 11 years, noting that the new projects would enhance connectivity, clean energy, and opportunities in Thoothukudi and beyond. Citing the success of the Make in India initiative, he mentioned how domestically produced weapons significantly impacted national defense and security, contributing to the nation's strength.

He honored Mahakavi Shri Subramaniya Bharathiyar’s legacy, linking it to cultural initiatives like the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam aimed at preserving shared heritage. The PM underscored the significance of railways in promoting industrial growth and Atmanirbhar Bharat, mentioning a focus on modernization over the last decade.

A new advanced terminal at Thoothukudi Airport, costing Rs 450 crore, was inaugurated, increasing passenger capacity from 3 lakh to over 20 lakh annually.PM Modi also dedicated two major road projects worth approximately Rs 2,500 crore, enhancing connectivity to Chennai and improving Thoothukudi port access, which will boost local trade and employment.

He highlighted the ongoing mission for modern infrastructure development, referencing landmark projects like the Chenab Bridge and others under the NDA government. PM Modi reiterated the government's commitment to creating job opportunities through transformative infrastructure projects across the country.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar