Today, North-East India is the center of India’s Act East Policy; It is becoming a bridge that connects India with South-East Asia: PM
The farmers of Barak Valley and tea garden workers have made a significant contribution to Assam’s development; the Government is continuously working for farmers’ welfare: PM
We consider border villages as the nation’s first villages; the next phase of the Vibrant Village Programme was launched from Cachar district to boost development in several Barak Valley villages as well: PM

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects in Silchar, Assam, today. Addressing the gathering, PM Modi stated that visiting the Barak Valley, a land defined by its culture and vibrancy, is always a deeply special experience for him. The Prime Minister remarked that Silchar serves as the gateway to this valley, where history and language have merged to create a unique regional identity. Shri Modi noted that the region’s strength lies in its diversity, where Bengali, Assamese, and tribal traditions flourish together in harmony. “The diversity of the Barak Valley is its greatest asset, fostering a spirit of brotherhood among its citizens” affirmed Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister observed that the fertile plains and tea gardens of the region have long been the backbone of its local economy and trade routes. PM Modi stated that today’s inauguration of projects worth thousands of crores will further empower the Barak Valley as a logistics hub for the entire North East. Shri Modi noted that these initiatives in rail, road, and education are designed to create vast employment opportunities for the local youth. The Prime Minister pointed out that the region is now being positioned to connect not just the state, but the neighboring regions of West Bengal and the North East. "Barak Valley is going to become a major logistics and trade hub for the North East," remarked Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister remarked that the current government is making the region the centerpiece of India’s Act East Policy. PM Modi noted that the current administration is working to restore its industrial glory. The Prime Minister observed that a historic milestone was reached today with the ground-breaking ceremony for the ₹24,000 crore Shillong-Silchar High-Speed Corridor. He stated that this Access Controlled Corridor is the first of its kind in the North East and ends a decades-old wait for the people. Shri Modi noted that this corridor will link Silchar to Mizoram, Manipur, and Tripura, and eventually to the vast markets of South-East Asia. The Prime Minister pointed out that this connectivity will provide an immense boost to local industry, agriculture, and tourism. "Barak Valley is going to be connected to a very bright future," affirmed Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister stated that the new Silchar flyover will provide much-needed relief from the traffic congestion that has long troubled the city's residents , this infrastructure is a major boon for students at Silchar Medical College, NIT, and Assam University, saving their precious time. Noting that the electrification of over 2,500 kilometers of Assam’s rail network will ensure faster travel, Shri Modi observed. “High-speed, clean rail transport will significantly benefit the pristine environment of the Barak Valley”.

The Prime Minister said that the tea garden workers and farmers of the valley have contributed immensely in Assam’s development. He said that so far more than ₹20,000 crore under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi has been transferred to the farmers of Assam. Shri Modi further noted that just yesterday, thousands of farmers in the Barak Valley also received money in their bank accounts. The Prime Minister added that this assistance is helping farmers meet their small but important needs related to agriculture. Shri Modi noted that the establishment of the region’s first Agriculture College at Patharkandi will transform the valley into a hub for agricultural research. The Prime Minister pointed out that this institution will provide the necessary support for local youth to launch successful agri-startups. "Barak Valley will now be known for agricultural studies and research," stated Shri Modi.

Shri Modi stated that the current government follows the mantra of prioritizing those who have been left behind in the race for development. The Prime Minister remarked that while border villages were once considered the "last" villages, his government views them as the "first" villages of the nation. He noted that the Vibrant Village Program, expanded from Cachar district, is already bringing visible improvements to border habitations. The Prime Minister pointed out that the historical neglect of these areas is now being replaced by proactive development and strategic focus. "We consider the border villages as the first villages of the country," affirmed the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister observed that the Assam government has performed a historical duty by granting land rights to thousands of tea garden families.Stating that providing these land titles is a major step toward changing the future of generations who served for two centuries, Shri Modi noted that this legal security ensures a life of dignity “These land rights will now allow families to access central schemes like permanent housing, electricity, and water”.

The Prime Minister stated that the government has also focused on providing schools, scholarships, and job opportunities specifically for the youth of the tea gardens. PM Modi remarked that these efforts are opening doors to a golden future for the children of workers who were previously neglected. He said that education, skill development, and health have become the primary pillars of the current government’s regional strategy. The Prime Minister pointed out that Assam is rapidly emerging as a health hub, with AIIMS and cancer hospitals now forming a strong network. "The doors of a golden future are opening for the youth of the tea gardens," noted Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister observed that while the youth of Assam now have an open sky of opportunities in the semiconductor and tech sectors, the current era of peace and progress has been achieved through immense sacrifices and must be protected from regressive forces. The Prime Minister pointed out that a befitting reply must be given to any force trying to push the state back into its troubled past. “Assam is now becoming an important part of India’s semiconductor sector. The ecosystem and talent related to next-generation technology are getting ready here,” affirmed Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister observed that during global crises and wars, the current government is working with full strength to minimize the impact on Indian citizens. Shri Modi noted that the region’s journey on the path of progress is now unstoppable, supported by its rich language and culture. PM Modi remarked that the development projects inaugurated today are just the beginning of a new era for the valley. The Prime Minister observed that the collective resolve of the people will ensure a bright and prosperous future for the entire state. “The day is not far when Barak Valley will be recognized as a new center of development,” concluded Shri Modi.

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PM Modi lays foundation stone, inaugurates various development works worth Rs.18,700 crore in Kolkata, West Bengal
March 14, 2026
Today, a vigorous nationwide campaign to modernise railways is underway, and we are determined that West Bengal should not be left behind in this effort: PM
The central government is rapidly expanding the railway infrastructure in West Bengal: PM
Ports like Kolkata and Haldia have long been major centers of trade in Eastern India: PM
Mechanisation at the Haldia Dock Complex will speed up cargo operations, enhance port capacity and strengthen trade facilities: PM

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated various development works worth more than Rs.18,000 crore in Kolkata, West Bengal, today. Addressing the gathering the Prime Minister remarked, "Today, from the land of Kolkata, a new chapter of development is being written for West Bengal and Eastern India."

The Prime Minister highlighted that the foundation stones and dedications of projects worth more than ₹18,000 crore related to roads, railways, and port infrastructure have been carried out at this event. He emphasized that these projects will give new momentum to West Bengal and Eastern India, boost trade and industry, and make life easier for lakhs of people by providing them new opportunities. Referring to some of the key projects, the Prime Minister noted that the completion of the Kharagpur–Moregram Expressway will accelerate economic activities across many parts of West Bengal. He also mentioned the Dubrajpur Bypass and the major bridges being constructed over the Kangsabati and Shilabati rivers, which will further improve connectivity. "I congratulate the people of West Bengal and the entire Eastern India for these transformative projects," remarked Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister stated that a vigorous campaign is underway across the country to modernize the Indian Railways, and it is the firm resolve of the government that West Bengal does not lag behind in this mission. He pointed out that the Central Government is rapidly expanding the railway infrastructure in West Bengal. On this occasion, the Automatic Block Signalling System on the Kalaikunda–Kanimahuli section has been dedicated to the nation. "These initiatives will enhance the capacity of busy rail routes, make journeys safer, and also increase speed and convenience for passengers", asserted Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister announced the inauguration of six stations, Kamakhyaguri, Anara, Tamluk, Haldia, Barabhum, and Siuri,as Amrit Bharat Stations. He noted that the great culture of Bengal is now shining even more brightly at these stations, and several more stations are undergoing redevelopment. A new express train service between Purulia and Anand Vihar Terminal has also been flagged off. "This train service will benefit not only the people of West Bengal but also those in Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi" , affirmed Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister emphasized that ports and water transport play an equally important role as road and rail connectivity in driving economic progress. He observed that for decades, this immense potential of Eastern India was largely neglected, but today, waterways are opening new avenues for trade and industrial advancement. In this direction, foundation stones and dedications of key port infrastructure projects have been carried out. The Prime Minister highlighted that Kolkata and Haldia ports have long been major centres of trade in Eastern India, and the mechanization of the Haldia Dock Complex will accelerate cargo operations, enhance port capacity, and provide new facilities for trade. Additionally, the renovation of the Bascule Bridge in the Kolkata Dock System and the augmentation of cargo handling capacity at Kidderpore Dock are also being undertaken. "All these projects will further strengthen the logistics system of Eastern India", asserted Shri Modi.

In his concluding remarks, the Prime Minister underscored that the new projects related to roads, railways, and ports are paving the way for a modern future for West Bengal. He noted that the benefits of these projects will reach farmers, traders, entrepreneurs, students, and every section of society. New opportunities will emerge in sectors like tourism, and local industries and services will gain fresh momentum. The Prime Minister recalled Bengal's historic role in showing the way to India and expressed his conviction that strong connectivity and modern infrastructure will form the foundation of a developed Bengal. "It is our resolve that Bengal, which has always shown the way to India, should once again achieve that glory by becoming a 'Viksit Bengal' ", emphasized Shri Modi.