Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 24 significant infrastructural projects worth over INR 46,300 crore in Rajasthan on December 17, 2024. This event coincided with the ‘Ek Varsh-Parinaam Utkarsh’ programme, marking the completion of one year of the state government led by Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma.
Among the various initiatives, PM Modi inaugurated nine projects valued at over INR 11,000 crore, which include seven projects from the central government and two from the state government. The hefty list of new ventures encompasses important developments such as solar energy projects, water infrastructure, and transportation networks.
The projects include the much-anticipated Navnera Barrage and Smart Electricity Transmission Network, which aims to modernize electricity management, alongside major railway electrification projects across the Bhildi-Samdari-Luni-Jodhpur corridor. Other notable initiatives include construction projects for multiple railway lines, such as the Jaipur-Sawai Madhopur and Ajmer-Chanderiya corridors. PM Modi emphasized the enhancement these projects would bring to the efficient movement of people and goods throughout the state.
During the inauguration, the Prime Minister stated, "The Governments at the Center and State are becoming a symbol of Good Governance today," illustrating the collaborative spirit of his administration. He remarked, "We believe in cooperation, not opposition, in providing solutions," thereby reinforcing his approach to governance.
A significant highlight of the event was the extensive focus on water management, as PM Modi noted the initiatives aimed at improving water availability across the state. He mentioned laying the foundation for the Ramgarh Barrage and Mahalpur Barrage, along with the establishment of systems to transfer water from the Navnera Barrage to various reservoirs. The total investment for these water projects exceeds INR 9,400 crore, representing the government's commitment to tackling Rajasthan's persistent water scarcity issues.
Modi also outlined ambitious solar energy projects, asserting, "There is immense potential for solar energy in Rajasthan, it can become the leading state of the country in this sector." This sentiment resonates strongly with the government's broader goal of promoting renewable energy solutions. The Prime Minister highlighted plans for the installation of rooftop solar plants on government buildings and the establishment of two solar parks with capacities of 2000 MW and 1000 MW in Bikaner.
Alongside the focus on energy and water, PM Modi expressed optimism over employment opportunities stemming from these projects, stating they would create myriad job possibilities and bolster the state's tourism sector. He offered praise for Rajasthan's efforts to attract investments, which he noted were evident from initiatives discussed during the Rising Rajasthan Summit 2024, where potential investors from around the globe were present.
During his address, the PM expressed gratitude to the people for supporting his government, which has now been elected for the third consecutive term. He praised past administrations for laying the groundwork for development, and he reiterated the current government's commitment to continuing this legacy. "The works undertaken reflect progress and will surely yield positive results for every household," he remarked, confident of the positive outcomes these initiatives would generate.
PM Modi highlighted the government's determination to improve infrastructure across the state. He mentioned the planned construction of major bridges over the Mej River, which will connect numerous districts and ease the movement of agricultural products and tourists alike. These efforts are all aligned with the overarching goal of connecting Rajasthan with major economic hubs across India, including Delhi and Maharashtra.
Emphasizing renewable energy's relevance to Rajasthan's economic future, he stated, "We are committed to making Rajasthan the most connected state in terms of road, rail, and air travel." This proclamation not only reflects Rajasthan's geographical potential but also its significance as a central point for commerce and industry.
Bringing attention to women empowerment, PM Modi noted, "Empowerment of women is as important as this development," and announced various government schemes aimed at enhancing women's participation and economic contributions. He spotlighted the success of self-help groups, stressing their role as engines of rural economic growth and potential future employers.
Finally, he urged citizens to engage actively with government projects, especially concerning water conservation, solar energy adoption, and infrastructure development. He closed his address with optimism for the state's future, emphasizing the government’s readiness to support the development of Rajasthan comprehensively.
The event underscored the government's vision for Rajasthan, focusing on sustainable growth, modernization, and inclusive governance, laying the groundwork for future advancements lurking on the horizon.
