Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for the development of projects worth around ₹1.06 lakh crore in Balotra, Rajasthan. According to a Press Information Bureau (PIB) release, the project will cover sectors such as energy, aviation, transport and water infrastructure. Among the key projects were the Rajasthan Refinery, the new terminal building at Jodhpur Airport and the launch of Viksit UDAN, the next phase of the Centre's regional air connectivity scheme.
The projects aim at improving infrastructure, boosting economic growth and enhancing connectivity across the state. Addressing a public gathering, the prime minister said the initiative would strengthen infrastructure and improve the ease of living in Rajasthan. He also said the new airport terminal in Jodhpur would provide a boost to tourism and trade and will generate employment opportunities in the Mewar region. As reported by the PIB release, Modi highlighted that the projects would strengthen infrastructure and improve the ease of living in Rajasthan.
The prime minister also announced the progress on a water supply project for the Shekhavati region. According to the PIB release, Modi stated that Rajasthan and Haryana had finalised an agreement to bring water from the Hathnikund Barrage through an underground pipeline. The project is expected to benefit residents of Sikar, Churu, Jhunjhunu and adjoining areas, addressing the region's water supply challenges.
Modi highlighted India's response to the recent global disruptions, saying the country had successfully navigated what he described as the 'greatest energy crisis of the 21st century'. He stated that timely policy decisions, diversified fuel sourcing and diplomatic efforts are the main reasons why our country has sailed through this tough time. As reported by the PIB release, Modi said that India expanded its energy import base from around 25-26 countries to more than 40 nations during the crisis, while taking measures to protect consumers from rising fuel prices.
The prime minister also outlined the steps taken by the government to increase domestic LPG production, expand piped natural gas connections and support fertiliser availability during global supply disruptions. According to the PIB release, Modi highlighted the expansion of renewable energy projects, the Jaipur Metro Phase-II project and other infrastructure initiatives aimed at supporting Rajasthan's long-term development. These initiatives demonstrate the government's comprehensive approach to addressing both immediate and long-term infrastructure needs in the state.
