In a significant push towards infrastructure growth and national security, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated, laid the foundation stone, and dedicated development projects collectively worth ₹26,000 crore in Bikaner, Rajasthan. Addressing a large gathering and virtual attendees from 18 states and union territories, the Prime Minister underscored the Centre’s commitment to holistic development and a robust defence posture.
The Prime Minister began his address by invoking the blessings of Karni Mata, framing the event as part of the larger vision for a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India). He congratulated citizens on the inauguration of numerous projects, asserting that India is witnessing an unprecedented pace of progress in infrastructure. He highlighted the surge in investment—sixfold over previous years—across roads, railways, and airports, citing milestone achievements such as the Chenab Bridge, Sela Tunnel, and Atal Setu.
Shri Modi spotlighted the transformation of railway infrastructure, particularly the modernisation of over 1,300 railway stations under the Amrit Bharat initiative. More than 100 stations have already been revamped, now reflecting regional heritage and boosting tourism. He mentioned notable examples such as Mandalgarh, Thawe, Orchha, and Dakor, which have become symbols of local culture and pride.
The Prime Minister reiterated that infrastructure development is not merely a catalyst for economic growth but also a driver of employment, benefiting farmers, traders, transporters, and industrial workers alike. Rajasthan, he noted, is a key beneficiary, with ₹70,000 crore already invested in roads over the past decade and another ₹10,000 crore earmarked this year for railway infrastructure.
Addressing Rajasthan’s industrial potential, the Prime Minister spoke of the near-complete oil refinery, food processing prospects linked to Bikaneri specialities, and improved connectivity through the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway and the Amritsar-Jamnagar corridor. He also emphasised the success of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, with over 40,000 beneficiaries in Rajasthan alone.
Shri Modi then shifted focus to national security, condemning the recent terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. He lauded the swift and coordinated response of the Indian Armed Forces, which dismantled nine terrorist facilities within 22 minutes in a retaliatory operation now dubbed ‘Operation Sindoor.’ He said the operation has established three guiding principles for India’s fight against terrorism: decisive response to any attack, refusal to be deterred by nuclear threats, and no distinction between terrorists and their state sponsors.
The Prime Minister declared that Pakistan would bear significant consequences for any future attacks, particularly in terms of its military and economic stability. He asserted that India would not resume talks or trade with Pakistan until the issue of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is addressed. He warned that water rights and national sovereignty are non-negotiable.
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Concluding his address, the Prime Minister affirmed that both security and development are essential for building a strong nation. “This land of valour is a symbol of India’s unity, resilience, and growing strength,” he said, congratulating the people of Rajasthan and the entire nation. The event was also attended by Rajasthan Governor Shri Haribhau Kisanrao Bagade, Chief Minister Shri Bhajanlal Sharma, and Union Ministers Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw and Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, among other dignitaries.