PM Modi Launches ₹40,000 Crore Projects in Bihar
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation for development projects worth nearly ₹40,000 crore in Purnea, Bihar. Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister extended his greetings to the people of this land, which he called the home of Maa Puran Devi, Bhakt Prahlad, and literary legends like Phanishwarnath Renu. He emphasised that these projects, spanning aviation, railways, electricity, and water, will fulfill the aspirations of the Seemanchal region.
Purnea has officially entered India’s aviation map. The Prime Minister inaugurated a new Interim Terminal Building at the Purnea Airport, a remarkable feat completed in less than five months. This new terminal will significantly enhance passenger handling capacity and provide direct connectivity between Purnea and major cities across the country, boosting trade and tourism.
“With the launch of the new airport, Purnea has now been placed on the country’s aviation map,” stated the PM. He also flagged off the first commercial flight from the new terminal, marking a historic moment for the region. This development is a testament to the dedication of engineers, a point he highlighted on Engineers’ Day, paying tribute to Sir M. Visvesvaraya.
In a push for modern rail connectivity, the Prime Minister flagged off one Vande Bharat, two Amrit Bharat, and one passenger train. He inaugurated the new Araria–Galgalia rail line, a project worth over ₹4,410 crore, which establishes direct connectivity between the Araria and Kishanganj districts. He also laid the foundation stone for the Bikramshila–Katareah rail line, a ₹2,170 crore project that will provide a direct rail link across the river Ganga. These initiatives will enhance economic, cultural, and social integration across the region.
Empowering Farmers and Securing Resources
In a significant announcement for Bihar’s agricultural sector, the Prime Minister confirmed the official notification for the establishment of a National Makhana Board. This fulfills a promise he had made to the people of Bihar. Given that Bihar accounts for 90 per cent of India’s total makhana production, the board will be instrumental in ensuring better prices for farmers and integrating modern technology into the sector. He also announced a plan worth nearly ₹475 crore for the development of the makhana sector, boosting Bihar’s presence on the global map.
To address the twin challenges of irrigation and floods, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the first phase of the Kosi-Mechi Intra-State River Link Project. This over ₹2,680 crore initiative will expand the Eastern Kosi Main Canal, benefiting multiple districts with improved irrigation and flood control. The Prime Minister also highlighted efforts to make Bihar self-reliant in power, inaugurating a 2400 MW thermal power project in Pirpainti, Bhagalpur. This project, Bihar’s largest private-sector investment, will provide dedicated power and strengthen the state’s energy security.
Housing for All and Women’s Empowerment
The Prime Minister brought good news to thousands of families, participating in Griha Pravesh ceremonies for over 40,000 beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. He emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring every poor citizen has a permanent home, noting that over four crore permanent houses have been built for the poor in the past 11 years. He assured the homeless that his government is now working to construct an additional three crore new homes.
Recognising the crucial role of women, the Prime Minister praised the success of the “Jeevika Didi” campaign under the leadership of Nitish Kumar. He announced that a Community Investment Fund of approximately ₹500 crore has been released for women, which will empower self-help groups and provide women with new opportunities to enhance their economic strength.
Modi’s Guarantee: A Firm Stance on National Security
Addressing a crucial national issue, Prime Minister Modi spoke about the demographic crisis emerging in Seemanchal and Eastern India due to illegal infiltrators. He stated that the law of India, not the whims of illegal entrants, will prevail. He criticised opposition parties for defending infiltrators for vote-bank politics, declaring that every infiltrator must be removed.
“This is Modi’s guarantee,” he asserted, “action will be taken against infiltrators, and the country will witness positive outcomes.” He warned those who act as shields for infiltrators that their actions will not succeed. The Prime Minister also announced a major festive gift for the poor and middle class: a reduction in GST on most daily-use items, including toothpaste, soap, and various food products. He stated that this measure demonstrates a government that genuinely cares for the people’s well-being.
The Prime Minister concluded by asserting that Bihar is a vital force in the nation’s progress, from national security to national development. He urged that the momentum of Bihar’s development campaign must continue with full force.
