PM Modi launches various development projects in Varanasi, addresses public meeting

Published By : Admin | September 18, 2018 | 12:30 IST
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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today inaugurated and laid the Foundation Stone for several important development projects, at a public gathering in Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi.

Among the projects inaugurated are the Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS) for Puraani Kashi; and an Atal Incubation Centre at BHU. Among the projects for which the Foundation Stone was laid, is the Regional Ophthalmology Centre at BHU.

The cumulative value of all projects which were inaugurated, or for which foundation stone was laid today, is over Rs. 550 crore.

Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that the efforts to bring about change in Varanasi, are also attempting to preserve the city’s rich heritage. He said the city is being modernized, while protecting its ancient identity. He said the change that has been brought about through four years of resolve of the people of Kashi, is now visible.

Shri Narendra Modi referred to the various projects in the power, road and other infrastructure sectors, which have progressed significantly, and brought about an improvement in the lives of the people in the city of Varanasi, and nearby areas. The Prime Minister said he feels very happy when he sees citizens post pictures of Varanasi Cantt Station online. He mentioned the work being done towards modernization of transport infrastructure. He also spoke of the work being done towards cleanliness and enhancing the visual appeal of the city. He said this move, which will transform tourism is a continuing effort. In this context, he also mentioned the work being done in Sarnath.

The Prime Minister said that basic facilities such as roads, electricity and water, are being extended to the rural areas surrounding Varanasi as well. He said Kashi is now emerging as a health hub. Mentioning the Atal Incubation Centre that was inaugurated today, he said that startups are already beginning to get connected with this. He said Varanasi is among the select cities in the country where Piped Cooking Gas is being made available.

The Prime Minister called upon the people of Varanasi to dedicate themselves towards fulfilment of this common resolve for the transformation of the city.

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PM Modi interacts with Energy Sector CEOs
January 28, 2026
CEOs express strong confidence in India’s growth trajectory
CEOs express keen interest in expanding their business presence in India
PM says India will play decisive role in the global energy demand-supply balance
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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi interacted with CEOs of the global energy sector as part of the ongoing India Energy Week (IEW) 2026, at his residence at Lok Kalyan Marg earlier today.

During the interaction, the CEOs expressed strong confidence in India’s growth trajectory. They conveyed their keen interest in expanding and deepening their business presence in India, citing policy stability, reform momentum, and long-term demand visibility.

Welcoming the CEOs, Prime Minister said that these roundtables have emerged as a key platform for industry-government alignment. He emphasized that direct feedback from global industry leaders helps refine policy frameworks, address sectoral challenges more effectively, and strengthen India’s position as an attractive investment destination.

Highlighting India’s robust economic momentum, Prime Minister stated that India is advancing rapidly towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy and will play a decisive role in the global energy demand-supply balance.

Prime Minister drew attention to significant investment opportunities in India’s energy sector. He highlighted an investment potential of around USD 100 billion in exploration and production, citing investor-friendly policy reforms introduced by the government. He also underscored the USD 30 billion opportunity in Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG). In addition, he outlined large-scale opportunities across the broader energy value chain, including gas-based economy, refinery–petrochemical integration, and maritime and shipbuilding.

Prime Minister observed that while the global energy landscape is marked by uncertainty, it also presents immense opportunity. He called for innovation, collaboration, and deeper partnerships, reiterating that India stands ready as a reliable and trusted partner across the entire energy value chain.

The high-level roundtable saw participation from 27 CEOs and senior corporate dignitaries representing leading global and Indian energy companies and institutions, including TotalEnergies, BP, Vitol, HD Hyundai, HD KSOE, Aker, LanzaTech, Vedanta, International Energy Forum (IEF), Excelerate, Wood Mackenzie, Trafigura, Staatsolie, Praj, ReNew, and MOL, among others. The interaction was also attended by Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri and the Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Suresh Gopi and senior officials of the Ministry.