PM Modi Addresses Global Crisis Amid Ongoing Conflict in West Asia
Prime Minister Modi's Address on Global Crisis
On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has persisted for a month, asserting that India is confronting this crisis with the full strength of its citizens' trust. He urged all political parties to refrain from making statements that could harm the nation during such challenging times.
Modi emphasized, "The policies and strategies of the Indian government align with what is beneficial for Indians and India. While political debates may yield some gains for those who make misleading statements, the public will never forgive actions that harm the country."
Inauguration of Noida International Airport
The Prime Minister made these remarks during a ceremony in Jewar, where he inaugurated the first phase of the Noida International Airport, developed with an investment of approximately ₹11,200 crores, along with a cargo hub. He noted, "The entire world is concerned as the war in West Asia continues, leading to shortages of food, diesel, and fertilizers in many countries."
He reassured that India is tackling this crisis with confidence in its citizens' strength, stating, "Every nation is making efforts to address this crisis, but India is facing it with full force, relying on the strength of its people."
Call for Unity and Hard Work
Modi stressed the importance of collective effort in building a developed India, stating that all 1.4 billion citizens must work diligently and unite to confront the challenges arising from the ongoing war. He mentioned that he had a lengthy and constructive discussion with all Chief Ministers the previous day regarding how to handle the crises stemming from the conflict.
He reiterated, "I urge the public to face this crisis with a calm mind, patience, and unity. This is a global crisis that requires our utmost concern for our nation, which is our greatest strength as Indians."
Political Accountability and Development
The Prime Minister also cautioned political parties, recalling how some individuals spread falsehoods about vaccines during the COVID-19 crisis to complicate government efforts, which ultimately backfired during elections. He expressed confidence that all political parties would learn from this and strengthen the nation.
Modi highlighted that despite the ongoing crisis, India has continued its rapid development. He explained the significance of the airport, stating, "Today, we are starting a new chapter in the campaign for a developed Uttar Pradesh and India. The largest state in the country now boasts one of the highest numbers of international airports."
Economic Impact and Future Plans
He noted that the airport would benefit several districts, including Noida, Aligarh, Agra, and Mathura, creating numerous opportunities for farmers, small industries, and youth. This airport symbolizes the flight of developed Uttar Pradesh, and he congratulated the people of western Uttar Pradesh for this grand project.
Modi recounted the recent inauguration of four major projects in western Uttar Pradesh, emphasizing that the swift completion of the Noida International Airport exemplifies the efforts of the double-engine government for the state's development.
Critique of Previous Governments
He criticized previous administrations, stating that the Noida airport was approved in 2003 under former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government but was never constructed. He pointed out that the Congress-led government and earlier state governments delayed the project for years.
Modi remarked, "From 2004 to 2014, the airport files were stalled. When our government came to power, the Samajwadi Party was in control of Uttar Pradesh, which hindered progress. However, once the BJP-RJD coalition took charge in both Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, the foundation was laid, and construction commenced."
Acknowledgment of Farmers
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to farmers for their contributions, particularly in producing ethanol from sugarcane, which has reduced dependence on crude oil imports. He noted that without this initiative, the country would have had to import approximately 700 crore liters of crude oil annually.
He praised the farmers for their role in alleviating the crisis and highlighted that the money saved from reduced imports has benefited sugarcane farmers significantly.
Infrastructure Development
Modi emphasized that airports are not just facilities but also catalysts for progress. He pointed out that before 2014, India had 74 airports, but now there are over 160, enhancing air connectivity even in smaller cities.
He assured that plans are in place to construct 100 new airports and 200 helipads in the coming years, which will greatly benefit Uttar Pradesh. He reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring that air travel remains affordable for ordinary families through initiatives like the UDAN scheme.
Investment in Infrastructure
The Prime Minister concluded by stating that the government is making unprecedented investments in infrastructure, with the budget for the last 11 years increasing more than sixfold. He mentioned that ₹17 lakh crores have been spent on highways and expressways, with over 100,000 kilometers of highways constructed. Additionally, he noted that 20,000 kilometers of railway routes were electrified before 2014, and another 40,000 kilometers have been electrified since then.