PM Modi inaugurated a series of development initiatives in Tamil Nadu

By Admin

28 Jul, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated a series of transformative development projects in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, reinforcing the central government’s long-standing commitment to infrastructure, connectivity, and energy. With investments exceeding ₹4,800 crore, the projects span key sectors including airports, highways, ports, railways, and clean energy marking a significant step in the region’s path toward progress and prosperity.

Transforming Tamil Nadu’s Infrastructure Landscape

PM Modi highlighted that infrastructure and energy are the foundation of a state’s growth and prosperity. Over the past 11 years, Tamil Nadu has received continuous support from the Centre to develop in these core areas. He remarked, “Thoothukudi is witnessing the dawn of a new chapter in development,” reflecting the magnitude and impact of the current initiatives.

Key Projects Unveiled

At the heart of these initiatives is the new terminal building at Thoothukudi Airport, constructed at a cost of ₹450 crore. Spread across 17,340 square meters, the terminal is now equipped to handle 20 lakh passengers annually, a significant leap from the previous capacity of 3 lakh. This will greatly enhance connectivity for business, education, tourism, and healthcare in the southern region.

PM Modi also inaugurated two major highway projects:

• 4-laning of the Sethiyathope–Cholapuram stretch of NH-36 under the Vikravandi–Thanjavur corridor, built at over ₹2,350 crore.
  
  

• 6-laning of the NH-138 Thoothukudi Port Road, developed at ₹200 crore.
  
  

These road projects are expected to reduce travel time, ease cargo transportation, and bolster industrial activity in the Delta region.

Strengthening Maritime and Railway Infrastructure

The development of V.O. Chidambaranar Port received a boost with the inauguration of the North Cargo Berth–III, built at ₹285 crore. With a cargo handling capacity of 6.96 MMTPA, this new addition will enhance the port’s logistical efficiency and support dry bulk cargo movement.

In the railway sector, PM Modi dedicated three vital projects to the nation:

• Electrification of the 90-km Madurai–Bodinayakkanur section.
  
  

• Doubling of the 21-km Nagercoil Town–Kanniyakumari section, worth ₹650 crore.
  
  

• Doubling of Aralvaymozhi–Nagercoil Junction (12.87 km) and Tirunelveli–Melappalayam (3.6 km) lines.
  
  

These projects will enhance travel convenience, improve rail capacity, and integrate the region more deeply with the national railway network.

Clean Energy & Power Transmission Milestones

The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for a crucial 400 kV transmission project linked to the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, costing ₹550 crore. The system will evacuate 2000 MW of power from Units 3 and 4, contributing to the national grid and ensuring stable power supply in Tamil Nadu and other states.

He also mentioned Tamil Nadu's notable progress under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which has seen nearly 1 lakh applications and 40,000 rooftop solar installations creating green jobs and accelerating clean energy adoption.

Boosting Trade, Innovation, and Coastal Economies

PM Modi emphasized the importance of the newly signed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the UK, which allows 99% of Indian exports to the UK to be tax-free. This, he stated, will uplift MSMEs, youth-led startups, and especially benefit Tamil Nadu’s fishing community and innovation sectors.

Underlining the government’s push for ‘Make in India’, he highlighted the successful deployment of indigenous weapons during Operation Sindoor, a testament to India’s growing manufacturing capabilities.

Cultural Pride and National Tribute

On Kargil Vijay Diwas, the PM paid homage to India’s brave soldiers. He also honored Tamil Nadu’s historical icons V.O. Chidambaram Pillai, Veerapandiya Kattabomman, Alagu Muthu Kon, and poet Subramania Bharati and stressed the deep cultural connection between Tamil Nadu and Kashi through initiatives like Kashi-Tamil Sangamam.

The Prime Minister fondly recalled gifting Thoothukudi’s famed Pandya Pearls to Bill Gates last year, highlighting Tamil Nadu’s rich maritime legacy.

Tamil Nadu’s Growing National Role

PM Modi stated that Tamil Nadu has received over ₹3 lakh crore in central funds in the last decade three times more than the previous government’s tenure. The state has also gained 11 new medical colleges and major investments under the Blue Revolution, aiming to support coastal and fisheries economies.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded by congratulating the people of Tamil Nadu, stating that the development projects in Thoothukudi mark a bold step forward in realizing the vision of a “Viksit Tamil Nadu” and a “Viksit Bharat.” The event was graced by Tamil Nadu Governor R. N Ravi, Union Ministers Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, L Murugan, and other distinguished guests.

These projects are not just milestones of development they reflect a larger narrative of inclusive growth, national pride, and a future-forward vision for Tamil Nadu and India.