Prime Minister Modi, on 15 September, laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects worth approximately ₹40,000 crore in Purnea, Bihar. Addressing a massive gathering, he emphasised that the development of Bihar and the Seemanchal region is vital for India’s progress, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering the poor, farmers, women, and youth through inclusive and sustainable growth initiatives.
The Prime Minister underlined Purnea’s cultural and historical significance, recalling its association with Maa Puran Devi, Bhakt Prahlad, Maharshi Mehi Baba, Vinoba Bhave, Phanishwarnath Renu, and Satinath Bhaduri. He remarked that this soil continues to inspire India’s development journey.
Announcing new projects across railways, aviation, power, irrigation, housing, and women empowerment, he stated that these initiatives mark a new chapter for Seemanchal. Over 40,000 beneficiaries received permanent homes under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and with the inauguration of Purnea Airport’s terminal building, the city has now been placed on the country’s aviation map, ensuring direct connectivity with key commercial hubs.
He flagged off one Vande Bharat train, two Amrit Bharat trains, and inaugurated the Araria–Galgalia rail line, along with laying the foundation stone for the Vikramshila–Kataria rail line. He also announced approval for the Mokama–Munger section of the Buxar–Bhagalpur high-speed corridor and doubling of the Bhagalpur–Dumka–Rampurhat line.
The Prime Minister inaugurated Bihar’s largest private sector investment—a 3×800 MW thermal power project at Pirpainti, Bhagalpur—designed with ultra-super critical, low-emission technology to strengthen the state’s energy security. He laid the foundation stone of Phase 1 of the Kosi-Mechi intra-state river link project worth over ₹2,680 crore, which will boost irrigation, reduce floods, and enhance agricultural resilience.
Reiterating his promise to the people of Bihar, he announced the formation of the National Makhana Board, with the official notification issued yesterday. The Board will promote technology adoption, value addition, and better market access, supported by a ₹475 crore development plan. He stressed that Bihar, which produces nearly 90% of the country’s makhana, will now gain a stronger global presence in this sector.
The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s resolve to fight infiltration, declaring that the law of India will prevail, not the whims of illegal entrants. He stated firmly that action will be taken against infiltrators and the country will witness concrete results.
On the occasion of Engineers’ Day, he paid tribute to Sir M. Visvesvaraya and praised engineers’ role in shaping modern India. He highlighted that Purnea Airport’s terminal building was built in less than five months, reflecting their dedication and skill.
Focusing on women empowerment, he announced the release of ₹500 crore as Community Investment Fund for Self-Help Groups under DAY-NRLM, empowering “Lakhpati Didis” and “Drone Didis” across Bihar. He emphasised that unlike opposition governments, his government considers every citizen as family, ensuring direct benefits like free ration, healthcare under Ayushman Bharat, and GST reductions on daily-use items to ease household expenses during the festive season.
He criticised the opposition for corruption, neglect of Bihar’s potential, and for defending infiltrators for political gain. Stressing Bihar’s growing role in national progress—from the Aunta-Simaria bridge to export of Made-in-Bihar rail engines—he urged that the development campaign must continue with full strength.
The Governor of Bihar, the Chief Minister of Bihar, Union Ministers, and several dignitaries were present on the occasion.