Ahmedabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple projects worth around Rs 1450 crore related to irrigation, power, water supply and urban infrastructure in Jamnagar.

Addressing the gathering, he thanked the people for the grand welcome and blessings showered upon him during his journey to the venue. He also congratulated them for the dedication and foundation stone laying of eight projects related to water, electricity and connectivity.

The Prime Minister remembered the devastation caused by the earthquake two decades ago. The tragedy and destruction caused by the earthquake created an atmosphere of despondency throughout the state. However, by the dint of self-confidence and hard work, Gujarat rose once again and chased away despondency and destruction and moved to the top of the nation.

The Prime Minister pointed out that the young generation is fortunate that they have not faced the problems that were there 20–25 years ago in the region and the state. He said that today Maa Narmada is reaching every nook and corner under the SAUNI scheme. Similarly, Jal Jeevan Mission is bringing piped water to every household.

The Prime Minister reiterated the welfare of the poor as the first priority of his government. He said that the first concern during the pandemic was to ensure that no family should go hungry. More than 80 crore people are being given free ration to tide over the hardship of the pandemic without going hungry. The Prime Minister pointed out that Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana has been extended till December this year so that no poor family should have to sleep on an empty stomach in their harsh times.

Talking about the oil refinery and oil economy of Jamnagar, Prime Minister Modi remarked that every citizen would be proud of the fact that crude oil is refined on this very land. He said that the double-engine government of the Centre and the State has continuously worked for the industrial and infrastructural development of the state.

He also talked about India’s rise in various economic indexes, especially the rise of the Indian economy to 5th position from 10th rank in 2014. In the ease of doing business too, India rose to 63rd rank in 20120 from 142nd in 2014. He complimented the state government for bringing out a progressive industrial policy. /BI/