PM Modi Launches Development Projects Worth Over Rs. 13,000 Crore in Chennai, Highlights Metro Expansion, Manufacturing and Port Modernisation.

Chennai:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday laid the foundation stones for, inaugurated and dedicated to the nation several development projects worth over Rs. 13,000 crore in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, highlighting the Centre’s focus on infrastructure development, urban mobility, manufacturing, employment generation and port modernisation.

Addressing a gathering in Chennai, Modi described the occasion as a historic day for Tamil Nadu and said the projects would improve daily commuting, strengthen industrial and commercial activities, and create employment opportunities for the state’s youth.

He said India’s development was being driven by its cultural heritage, scientific progress and modern infrastructure, adding that the country’s traditions and future aspirations were advancing together.

Congratulating the people of Tamil Nadu on the occasion, Modi also extended greetings for Navratri. He recalled his visit to the Jalakandeswarar Temple before attending the programme and described Tamil Nadu as a land of spiritual significance.

The Prime Minister also paid tribute to Bharat Ratna awardees Jayaprakash Narayan and Nanaji Deshmukh on their birth anniversaries, recalling their contributions to the nation.

Chennai Metro Expansion to Improve Urban Mobility

Highlighting the importance of urban infrastructure, Modi said urban development was a major priority for the government and emphasised that cities needed comprehensive infrastructure rather than road expansion alone.

He pointed out that India’s metro network had expanded significantly over the past decade. According to him, metro services, which were operational in five cities in 2014, are now available in 25 cities across the country. The total metro network has also grown from approximately 250 kilometres in 2014 to more than 1,100 kilometres.

Modi said the latest expansion of the Chennai Metro would make commuting easier, reduce travel time and improve the quality of life for residents.

He also highlighted his visit to the Brain Research Centre at IIT Madras, expressing confidence that ongoing research could contribute to significant advances in public healthcare.

Manufacturing Growth and Employment Generation

Emphasising Tamil Nadu’s contribution to India’s industrial development, Modi said the Central Government was promoting manufacturing to strengthen states and accelerate national economic growth.

He praised the state’s small-scale industries, manufacturing capabilities and workforce, noting that initiatives such as Make in India and Vocal for Local had helped strengthen domestic production.

The Prime Minister highlighted the country’s growing electronics and defence manufacturing sectors. He said electronics exports had increased elevenfold since 2014, while defence exports had grown approximately 50 times. Engineering exports had also achieved new records, he added.

According to Modi, the expansion of manufacturing had generated lakhs of direct and indirect employment opportunities across the country, with Tamil Nadu making a significant contribution.

He also announced the foundation laying of an advanced lubricant base oil project, stating that it would generate employment and help reduce India’s dependence on imports.

Rail, Road and Port Infrastructure to Boost Trade

Modi stressed that industrial growth depended on efficient transport networks, including roads, railways and ports, which facilitate the movement of raw materials and finished products.

He said infrastructure projects created employment during construction and generated economic activity for industries supplying cement, steel, machinery and other materials. Once operational, improved connectivity would further support Tamil Nadu’s industrial and service sectors.

Highlighting maritime development, the Prime Minister said port infrastructure across the country was being strengthened to improve shipping efficiency and expand international trade.

He referred to the proposed investment of approximately ₹17,000 crore to transform VOC Port in Thoothukudi into a world-class mega container and green energy hub capable of handling ultra-large container vessels.

Modi said improvements in port operations had reduced ship turnaround times by nearly half, enabling Indian products to reach international markets more quickly.

Support for Fishermen and Coastal Communities

The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s initiatives to strengthen the fisheries sector and improve the livelihoods of coastal communities.

He said thousands of crores of rupees had been approved for Tamil Nadu under the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana and other schemes to upgrade fishing harbours, develop fish landing centres and improve cold-chain infrastructure.

Measures included the modernisation of Chennai Fishing Harbour, the development of a Seaweed Park and assistance for transport vehicles to maintain the freshness of fish. Fishermen were also receiving easier access to working capital through the Kisan Credit Card facility, he said.

Modi noted that India’s fish production had increased substantially and seafood exports had reached record levels in both volume and value during the previous year.

Commitment to Tamil Nadu’s Development

Reflecting on his 25 years of continuous service as a head of government since becoming Gujarat Chief Minister in October 2001, Modi emphasised the importance of cooperative federalism and the development of states as a foundation for national progress.

He recalled working with several Tamil Nadu leaders across different governments and said his commitment to the state’s development had remained consistent.

Concluding his address, Modi reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to supporting Tamil Nadu’s progress and called for collective efforts to achieve the vision of a developed India through a developed Tamil Nadu.

He expressed confidence that the newly launched infrastructure and industrial projects would strengthen connectivity, expand economic opportunities and contribute to the state’s long-term prosperity.