The Prime Minister of India His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi is on a State Visit to Nepal from 11 to 12 May 2018 at the invitation of the Prime Minister of Nepal The Rt. Hon'ble K P Sharma Oli.
Marking their second bilateral Summit in 2018, the two Prime Ministers held delegation level talks on 11 May 2018 in an atmosphere of utmost warmth and cordiality that characterizes the deep friendship and understanding between the two countries.
The two Prime Ministers recalled their meeting in New Delhi during the State visit of Prime Minister Oli in April 2018 and agreed to maintain the momentum generated by the visit by taking effective measures for the implementation of all the agreements and understandings reached in the past. They also agreed that effective implementation of the bilateral initiatives in agriculture, railway linkages and inland waterways development, as agreed upon by the two sides during the recent visit of Prime Minister Oli to India, would have transformational impact in these areas.
While reviewing the close and multifaceted relations between the two countries at different levels, the two Prime Ministers reiterated their resolve to work together to take bilateral relations to newer heights by strengthening ongoing cooperation in diverse spheres as well as expanding partnership for socio-economic development on the basis of the principles of equality, mutual trust, respect and mutual benefit.
The two Prime Ministers emphasized the need for regular convening of bilateral mechanisms, including Nepal-India Joint Commission at Foreign/External Affairs Ministers level, to review the overall state of bilateral relations, and for the expeditious implementation of the economic and development cooperation projects.
The two Prime Ministers underscored the importance of trade and economic ties between India and Nepal. Expressing concern over Nepal’s growing trade deficit with India, Prime Minister Oli stated that measures to address this deficit need to be taken. In this context, the two Prime Ministers welcomed the outcome of the recently held Inter-Governmental Committee meeting on Trade, Transit and Cooperation to control unauthorized trade to jointly initiate a comprehensive review of the bilateral Treaty of Trade, and to consider amendments to the Treaty of Transit and related Agreements with a view to further facilitating Nepal's access to the Indian market, enhancing overall bilateral trade, and facilitating Nepal's transit trade.
The two Prime Ministers underlined the catalytic role of connectivity in stimulating economic growth and promoting movement of people. They agreed to take further steps to enhance the economic and physical connectivity by air, land, and water. Recognizing the vibrant people to people contacts and friendly bilateral ties, the two Prime Ministers directed the respective officials to expand cooperation in civil aviation sector, including early technical discussion on additional air entry routes to Nepal by respective technical teams.
The two Prime Ministers reiterated the importance of advancing cooperation in water resources for mutual benefit in areas such as river training works, inundation and flood management, irrigation, and to enhance pace of implementation of ongoing bilateral projects. They also expressed satisfaction over constitution of the joint team, which will visit areas affected by inundation and floods and consider appropriate measures for sustainable solution.
The two Prime Ministers jointly laid the foundation stone of 900 MW Arun-III hydro-electric project in Nepal. They expressed hope that operationalization of the project would help enhance cooperation in the generation and trade of power between the two countries. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the outcome of the recently concluded meeting of the Joint Steering Committee on cooperation in the power sector held on 17 April 2018. They agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in power sector in line with the bilateral Power Trade Agreement.
Prime Minister Modi also visited Janakpur and Muktinath and attended civic receptions in Kathmandu and Janakpur.
With a view to further strengthening the close religious and cultural ties between the two countries and peoples, the two Prime Ministers launched Nepal-India Ramayana Circuit connecting Janakpur, the birthplace of Sita, with Ayodhya and other sites associated with the epic Ramayana. In Janakpur, the two Prime Ministers flagged off the inaugural direct bus service between Janakpur and Ayodhya.
The two Prime Ministers directed their respective officials to address outstanding matters by September 2018, with the objective of advancing cooperation in all areas.
The two Prime Ministers underscored the importance of regional and sub-regional cooperation under BIMSTEC, SAARC, and BBIN frameworks for forging meaningful cooperation in identified sectors.
The two Prime Ministers agreed that the landmark third visit of Prime Minister Modi to Nepal has further strengthened the age-old friendly relations between the two countries and has injected a fresh impetus to our growing partnership.
Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Oli for his gracious invitation and warmth of hospitality.
Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to Prime Minister Oli to pay a visit to India. Prime Minister Oli accepted the invitation; dates will be finalized through diplomatic channels.
The strong foundation of Viksit Rajasthan is giving more strength to the resolution of Viksit Bharat: PM Modi
March 07, 2026
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Today is a day of new hope and new achievement for the entire Hadoti region including Kota, Bundi, Baran and Jhalawar: PM
This modern airport, to be built at a cost of ₹1,500 crore, will give new momentum to the development of the entire region in the coming time: PM
When this airport becomes operational, travel will be easier and trade will grow rapidly across the entire area, including Kota : PM
Kota is today advancing rapidly in the field of connectivity: PM
Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, both major railway stations of Kota are being equipped with modern facilities: PM
The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, which passes through Kota and Bundi, is opening a new gateway for the development of the entire region: PM
My dear companions from Kota and the entire Hadoti region, Namaskar once again.
Just last week, I had the opportunity to visit Rajasthan. From the sacred land of Ajmer, we inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for development projects worth thousands of crores of rupees. In that same program, appointment letters were handed over to more than 21,000 young people of Rajasthan. And now, only a few days after the Ajmer visit, today I have the privilege of launching this important airport project connected to Kota. Within a single week, these two major development programs in Rajasthan send a powerful message. They show how rapidly Rajasthan is progressing today. Whether it is infrastructure, employment opportunities for youth, schemes for farmers and women, or initiatives in every sector-work is happening at great speed across Rajasthan.
Friends,
Today is a day of new hope and achievement for Kota, Bundi, Baran, Jhalawar, and the entire Hadoti region. This modern airport, being built at a cost of around 1,500 crore rupees, will accelerate the development of the entire region in the coming years. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people of Kota and Hadoti on the occasion of the foundation stone laying of this important airport project.
Friends,
I remember, when I came to Kota in November 2023, I made a promise to the people of Kota. I had said that the airport would not remain just a dream, but it would be turned into reality. Today, I am happy that the moment has arrived when the construction of Kota Airport is beginning. Until now, people of Kota had to travel to Jaipur or Jodhpur to catch flights. This consumed a lot of time and caused inconvenience. That situation is now going to change. Once this airport becomes operational, travel will become easier and trade will grow rapidly in Kota and the surrounding areas.
Friends,
Kota is not only a hub of education but also a major center of energy. It is a unique region where electricity is produced from almost all sources-nuclear, coal-based, gas, and water. The land of Hadoti is equally famous for its heritage. The taste of Kota Kachori, the elegance of Kota Doria sarees, and the shine of Kota stone and sandstone have earned recognition worldwide. The coriander from here, Bundi’s basmati rice-their aroma reaches international markets. This region is known for its hard work, production, and immense potential. Now, this new airport in Kota will multiply these possibilities many times over.
Friends,
The land of Kota and Hadoti is also a great center of enterprise and faith. For centuries, devotees from across the country and the world have been coming here to visit the sacred Mathuradheesh Ji Peeth, the Keshav Rai Patan pilgrimage, Khade Ganesh Ji Maharaj, and Godavari Balaji Dham. The view of Chambal from Garadia Mahadev mesmerizes everyone. Wildlife sanctuaries like Mukundra Hills and Ramgarh Vishdhari make this region a major hub of wildlife tourism. With increased air connectivity, tourists from across the country and the world will come here, directly benefiting the youth, traders, and the local economy.
Friends,
Kota is already rapidly advancing in connectivity. Under the Amrit Bharat Station scheme, both major railway stations of Kota are being equipped with modern facilities. The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, which passes through Kota and Bundi, is opening new doors of development for the entire region. Now, big cities like Delhi, Vadodara, and Mumbai are only a few hours away. With better road and rail connectivity, new industries are being established here. Especially for agro-based industries, this region will become a major hub. After rail and road, this new chapter of air connectivity will further accelerate Kota’s development. The Kota Airport will bring new opportunities of progress for the entire Hadoti region and nearby districts.
Friends,
I also want to appreciate the continuous efforts of Kota’s Member of Parliament, Shri Om Birla Ji, for this important project. His constant endeavor has been to improve the lives of the people of Kota and provide them with new opportunities. Whether it is the airport, the new campus of IIIT, or the expansion of roads, he has been working tirelessly for Kota’s development. It is because of his efforts that Kota and the entire region are witnessing new momentum in growth.
Friends,
Om Birla Ji is not only an excellent Member of Parliament but also a remarkable Speaker of the Lok Sabha. He is fully dedicated to the Constitution and deeply committed to parliamentary traditions. Today, he stands above party and opposition, embodying neutrality. When I see him in the House, I often feel that perhaps coming from the city of education has influenced his role as Speaker-he leads like a good head of the family, taking everyone along. He respects the feelings and requests of all Members of Parliament. He is a Speaker who naturally honors MPs the most. Even when some arrogant and disruptive individuals occasionally create disturbances, he manages everything with dignity, never insulting anyone, patiently enduring harsh words, and always smiling with warmth. Perhaps that is one reason why he is universally admired in the House.
Friends,
When connectivity increases, the speed of development also rises. In the past 11 years, new airports built across different parts of the country have given fresh momentum to growth. Before 2014, there were around 70 airports in the country. Today, that number has risen to more than 160. These new airports have made air travel easier, boosted tourism, created employment opportunities for youth, and accelerated regional development. Even around Delhi, several new airports have come up-Hisar, Hindon, Jewar. When new airports and terminals are built, new enterprises and companies reach smaller cities too. I am confident that Kota’s new airport will similarly give new momentum to the development of this region in the coming times.
Friends,
When the state government and the central government work together, when intentions are clear and determination is strong, the pace of development multiplies. That is exactly what is happening in Rajasthan today. This strong foundation of a developed Rajasthan is giving greater strength to the resolve of a developed India. I am fully confident that together we will succeed in building a Rajasthan that is prosperous, strong, and full of opportunities. With this belief, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you on this foundation stone laying ceremony. Thank you very much. Vande Mataram.
