PM Narendra Modi Launches Development Projects Worth Rs. 2,970 Crore in Daman, Emphasizes Healthcare, Green Growth and Economic Progress.
Daman:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated, dedicated to the nation, and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth around Rs. 2,970 crore in Daman on World Environment Day. The projects cover key sectors such as healthcare, aviation, tourism, education, urban infrastructure, connectivity, and renewable energy, aiming to accelerate the overall development of the Union Territory.
Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the people for their enthusiastic participation and highlighted the remarkable transformation of Daman, Diu, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli over the years.
Describing Daman as a symbol of India’s diversity, Modi said the Union Territory has evolved into a “Mini India” where people from various regions of the country live together harmoniously, reflecting the spirit of national unity.
Major Push for Development
The Prime Minister said the newly launched projects would significantly improve the quality of life for citizens while creating fresh opportunities for youth and businesses.
He praised the governance model adopted in Daman, Diu, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli, noting that every visit to the region reveals visible progress and rapid development.
The projects inaugurated and announced include infrastructure upgrades, healthcare facilities, tourism development, educational institutions, transport infrastructure, and urban modernization initiatives.
India’s Economy Remains Strong
Referring to the latest GDP figures, Modi highlighted India’s strong economic performance despite global uncertainties.
He noted that India recorded a growth rate of 7.7 percent during the financial year 2025-26, while growth in the quarter ending March 31 stood at 7.8 percent.
“Even amid severe global challenges, the collective efforts of 140 crore Indians have ensured that the country continues to progress and remain ahead of the curve,” he said.
The Prime Minister credited infrastructure development, welfare reforms, and policy stability for India’s resilient economic growth.
Green Development and Environmental Sustainability
Marking World Environment Day, Modi emphasized the importance of sustainable development and environmental conservation.
He highlighted Diu’s achievement of powering all government buildings through solar energy and encouraged wider adoption of rooftop solar systems across households.
According to the Prime Minister, increased use of solar energy can not only reduce electricity costs but also generate additional income for families by enabling them to sell surplus power.
He also praised the region’s plantation drives and cleanliness campaigns, describing them as examples of strong public participation in environmental protection.
“Cleanliness has become a people’s movement here, reflecting a deep sense of civic responsibility,” he remarked.
Infrastructure Creating New Opportunities
The Prime Minister stated that landmark projects such as Namo Airport, the Damanganga Bridge, and modern transport infrastructure would transform the region’s economic landscape.
He compared the development trajectory of the Union Territory to globally successful economic hubs, emphasizing that strong infrastructure forms the foundation of future prosperity.
Projects like Transport Nagar and improved road connectivity are expected to strengthen trade, logistics, tourism, and industrial growth.
Boost to India’s Blue Economy
Modi linked the region’s development to India’s broader Blue Economy vision, emphasizing the importance of maritime infrastructure and coastal development.
He noted that modern ports, waterfront projects, and coastal tourism initiatives are helping strengthen India’s position as a major maritime economy.
Healthcare Expansion for All
A major focus of the development package was healthcare.
The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s efforts to ensure affordable and accessible healthcare through Ayushman Bharat, Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, and digital health initiatives.
He stated that millions of families have benefited from the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which provides free treatment coverage of up to ₹5 lakh annually.
According to Modi, healthcare initiatives such as Ayushman Cards and Jan Aushadhi Kendras have collectively saved poor and middle-class families approximately ₹2.25 lakh crore.
The inauguration of a modern hospital in Daman and the success of Namo Hospital in Silvassa are expected to provide advanced medical facilities to residents of the region.
Significant Improvement in Maternal and Child Health
Citing findings from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), the Prime Minister highlighted substantial progress in healthcare outcomes.
He noted that before 2014, a majority of childbirths took place outside hospitals, whereas today more than 90 percent of deliveries occur in healthcare institutions.
Similarly, child immunization rates have witnessed remarkable improvement due to Mission Indradhanush. While only about 60 percent of children were fully vaccinated before 2014, the figure has now risen to nearly 90 percent.
The Prime Minister said these achievements have particularly benefited women and children across the country.
Education and Skill Development
Modi also highlighted the rapid expansion of educational infrastructure in the Union Territory.
He noted that students no longer need to migrate elsewhere for higher education as modern educational facilities, smart classrooms, and the Swami Vivekananda Education Hub are being developed locally.
The Prime Minister announced the establishment of the 18th National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) campus and the introduction of advanced technical courses at ITI Daman.
These initiatives, he said, would provide global exposure and strengthen employment opportunities for local youth.
Special mention was made of schemes such as the Saraswati Cycle Scheme and Saraswati Vidya Yojana, which are supporting girls’ education and promoting gender equality.
Tourism Driving Economic Growth
The Prime Minister emphasized the growing importance of tourism in the region’s economy.
He said visitor numbers have increased nearly tenfold in recent years due to improved infrastructure, clean beaches, modern waterfronts, and heritage development projects.
Tourist attractions such as the Daman Night Market and Namo Path Sea-front are helping establish a new identity for the region and generating employment opportunities.
The government, he added, continues to promote tourism through initiatives such as “Dekho Apna Desh,” which encourages citizens to explore domestic destinations while supporting local culture and businesses.
Manufacturing and Industrial Growth
Highlighting the industrial potential of Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman, Modi noted that the region has emerged as a major hub for man-made fibre production and manufacturing activities.
He assured continued support for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and expressed confidence that the region would become a major manufacturing centre in the coming years.
Vision for the Future
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed the Central Government’s commitment to supporting the aspirations of local youth, farmers, entrepreneurs, and businesses.
He said the newly launched projects would accelerate economic growth, strengthen infrastructure, improve healthcare and education, boost tourism and industry, and create new opportunities for future generations.
“The government will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the people in fulfilling their dreams and building a prosperous future for the region,” he said.
