The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated various projects worth around Rs 47,600 crore at Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh today. Addressing the gathering, he informed that the tour to Kanpur, initially scheduled on 24th April 2025 had to be cancelled due to the terrorist attacks in Pahalgam. He paid tribute to Shri Shubham Dwivedi, a son of Kanpur, who fell victim to this barbaric act. The Prime Minister remarked that he deeply felt the pain, suffering, anger and collective anguish of sisters and daughters across the country. This collective fury, he stated, was witnessed worldwide as Operation Sindoor unfolded. He underscored the success of Operation Sindoor, where terrorist hideouts in Pakistan were destroyed, and the Pakistani military was forced to plead for an end to the conflict. The Prime Minister saluted the valor of the armed forces, emphasizing that he pays homage to their courage from the land of the independence struggle. He firmly reiterated that the enemy, who begged for mercy during Operation Sindoor, must not be under any illusion as Operation Sindoor is not yet over. The Prime Minister outlined India's three clear principles in its fight against terrorism. First, India will deliver a decisive response to every terrorist attack. The timing, method, and conditions of this response will be determined solely by the Indian armed forces. Second, India will no longer be intimidated by nuclear threats, nor will it make decisions based on such warnings. Third, India will view both the masterminds of terrorism and the governments that shelter them in the same light. The distinction between Pakistan’s state and non-state actors will no longer be accepted. The Prime Minister asserted unequivocally that wherever the enemy may be, it will be eliminated.
“Operation Sindoor showcased India's indigenous defense capabilities and the strength of Make in India to the world”, exclaimed Shri Modi, adding that India's homegrown weapons, including the BrahMos missile, struck targets with precision, causing destruction deep within enemy territory. This capability, he remarked, is a direct result of India's commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat. Shri Modi noted that there was a time when India depended on foreign nations for its military and defense needs. However, the country has begun transforming those circumstances, striving to become self-sufficient in defense production. He underscored that self-reliance in defense is not only vital for the economy but also essential for national pride and sovereignty. Reiterating that to free India from this dependence, the government launched the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, Shri Modi expressed pride in Uttar Pradesh's major contributions to achieving defense self-sufficiency. He pointed out that, like Kanpur’s historic ordnance factory, seven ordnance factories have been transformed into advanced defense production units. He also highlighted the establishment of a major Defense Corridor in Uttar Pradesh, with the Kanpur node emerging as a key center for Atmanirbhar Bharat in the defense sector.
Noting that while traditional industries once relocated, major defense sector companies are now establishing their presence, the Prime Minister highlighted that the production of AK-203 rifles has already commenced in Amethi. He emphasized that the BrahMos missile, which played a crucial role in Operation Sindoor, now has a new home in Uttar Pradesh, signifying the state's rising prominence in defense production. The Prime Minister remarked that in the future, Kanpur and Uttar Pradesh will lead India’s journey to becoming a major defense exporter. He further stated that new factories will be established, significant investments will flow in, and thousands of local youth will gain excellent employment opportunities.
Emphasizing that taking Uttar Pradesh and Kanpur to new heights of development is the top priority of the Union and State governments, Shri Modi stated that this progress would be achieved by promoting industries and restoring Kanpur’s historic glory. He remarked that previous governments neglected the requirements of modern industries, leading to the decline of industrial presence in Kanpur. He pointed out that family-driven governments remained indifferent, resulting in not just Kanpur but all of Uttar Pradesh falling behind in development.
The Prime Minister stressed that two essential pillars for the state's industrial progress are self-sufficiency in the energy sector—ensuring a steady power supply—and strong infrastructure and connectivity. He announced the inauguration of several major power plants, including the 660 MW Panki Power Plant, 660 MW Neyveli Power Plant, 1320 MW Jawaharpur Power Plant, 660 MW Obra-C Power Plant, and 660 MW Khurja Power Plant. He remarked that these projects represent a significant step toward fulfilling Uttar Pradesh's energy needs. The Prime Minister highlighted that with these power plants operational, electricity availability in the state will increase, further accelerating industrial growth. He also stated that development projects over ₹47,000 crore have been inaugurated and foundation stones laid for various initiatives, reinforcing the commitment to progress. The Prime Minister noted that Ayushman Vay Vandana Cards have been distributed to senior citizens, ensuring free medical treatment, while other beneficiaries have received assistance through various welfare schemes. He underscored that these initiatives and development projects reflect the government's unwavering dedication to the progress of Kanpur and Uttar Pradesh.
Emphasising that both the Union and State governments are actively working toward building a modern and developed Uttar Pradesh, Shri Modi highlighted that the infrastructure, amenities, and resources once exclusive to major metro cities are now becoming visible in Kanpur. He recalled that a few years ago, the government gave Kanpur its first metro service, and today, the Orange Line of Kanpur Metro has reached Kanpur Central. He noted that the metro network, which started as elevated, has now expanded to underground, seamlessly connecting key areas of the city. Shri Modi remarked that the expansion of Kanpur Metro is not an ordinary project but a testament to how determined leadership, strong willpower, and a government with honest intent can drive the nation’s development. He addressed how people used to doubt whether metro services or major infrastructure improvements could ever be implemented in Kanpur due to overcrowded areas, narrow roads, and lack of modern urban planning. He noted that these challenges led Kanpur and other major cities in Uttar Pradesh to fall behind in the race for development, worsening traffic congestion and slowing down the city’s progress. He asserted that today, the same Kanpur and Uttar Pradesh are setting new benchmarks in development. Shri Modi highlighted the direct benefits of metro services for Kanpur’s people, noting that, as a major commercial hub, the metro will make travel to Naveen Market and Bada Chauraha easier for traders and customers alike. He emphasized that students from IIT Kanpur and the general public will also save significant travel time in reaching Central Railway Station. Shri Modi reaffirmed that a city's speed determines its progress and that these enhanced connectivity and transport facilities are shaping a new, modern image of Uttar Pradesh’s development.
Highlighting Uttar Pradesh's remarkable advancements in infrastructure and connectivity, stating that the state has moved far beyond its former identity of pothole-ridden roads, the Prime Minister emphasized that UP is now known for its extensive network of expressways. He remarked that while people once avoided stepping out after dusk, highways in Uttar Pradesh are now bustling with travelers 24/7. He noted that the people of Kanpur understand this transformation better than anyone. The Prime Minister announced that soon, the Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway will reduce travel time to Lucknow to just 40–45 minutes. Additionally, direct connectivity will be established between Lucknow and the Purvanchal Expressway, while the Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway will be linked to the Ganga Expressway—cutting down travel distance and time in both directions. He acknowledged that Kanpur residents have long faced challenges due to the single-line railway track in the Farrukhabad-Anwarganj section. He noted that commuters have struggled with 18 railway crossings, facing frequent closures that disrupted travel. The Prime Minister announced that ₹1,000 crore will be invested in constructing an elevated rail corridor in the region, significantly improving traffic flow, increasing speed, and reducing pollution. Most importantly, he emphasized that this initiative will save precious time for the people of Kanpur.
Shri Modi underlined the ongoing transformation of Kanpur Central Railway Station, stating that it is being upgraded to a world-class facility. He remarked that soon, the station will resemble an airport in terms of modern amenities and infrastructure. He also noted that the government is developing over 150 railway stations in Uttar Pradesh under the Amrit Bharat Railway Station initiative, further enhancing connectivity and passenger experience. Emphasizing that Uttar Pradesh has already become the state with the highest number of international airports in India, Shri Modi remarked that with advancements in highways, railways, and airways, the state is progressing rapidly in all sectors. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making Uttar Pradesh a hub of industrial opportunities. He highlighted the launch of Mission Manufacturing in this year’s budget, designed to bolster Make in India by promoting local industries and production. Shri Modi further remarked that cities like Kanpur will benefit significantly from this initiative. He acknowledged that Kanpur’s industrial strength has historically been driven by its MSMEs and small-scale industries. He emphasized that the government is actively working to meet the expectations of these industries, ensuring their growth and sustainability.
Highlighting the transformation in the MSME sector, noting that earlier, small businesses were defined in a way that discouraged expansion, the Prime Minister stated that the government has revised these definitions, increasing turnover and scaling limits to promote growth. He announced that the latest budget has further expanded the scope of MSMEs, granting them additional exemptions. The Prime Minister acknowledged that credit availability was a major challenge for MSMEs in the past. However, he highlighted that over the last ten years, the government has taken multiple decisive steps to resolve this issue. He noted that young entrepreneurs looking to start their businesses now receive immediate financial support through the Mudra Yojana. Additionally, small and medium enterprises are being financially strengthened through the Credit Guarantee Scheme. Stating that MSME loan guarantees have been increased to ₹20 crore in this year’s budget, the Prime Minister said furthermore, MSMEs are being provided with credit cards with limits of up to ₹5 lakh to support their growth. He emphasized that the government is actively creating a business-friendly environment for MSMEs and new industries by simplifying processes and regulations. The Prime Minister also highlighted that Kanpur’s traditional leather and hosiery industries are being empowered through initiatives like One District, One Product. He remarked that these efforts will not only benefit Kanpur but also contribute to the overall industrial development of districts across Uttar Pradesh.
Emphasising that Uttar Pradesh has created an unprecedented and secure environment for investment, Shri Modi remarked that welfare schemes for the poor are being implemented with transparency, ensuring effective ground-level execution. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the middle class, stating that the administration stands firmly with them. He announced that this year’s budget has made income up to ₹12 lakh entirely tax-free, bringing renewed confidence and financial strength to millions of middle-class families. The Prime Minister concluded by reiterating that the government will continue progressing rapidly with its commitment to service and development, leaving no stone unturned in taking the nation—and Uttar Pradesh—to new heights.
The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Keshav Prasad Maurya and Shri Brajesh Pathak were present among other dignitaries.
Background
Prime Minister laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects aimed at boosting the region's infrastructure and connectivity. He inaugurated the Chunniganj Metro Station to Kanpur Central Metro Station section of Kanpur Metro Rail Project worth over Rs 2,120 crore. It will include 14 planned stations with five new underground stations integrating key city landmarks and commercial hubs into the metro network. Additionally, he also inaugurated road widening and strengthening work of G.T. Road.
In order to boost power generation capacity in the region, multiple projects will be undertaken. Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of a 220 kV substation in Sector 28 at Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA), Gautam Buddh Nagar to meet the growing energy demands of the region. He also inaugurated 132 kV Substations worth over Rs 320 crore at Ecotech-8 and Ecotech-10 in Greater Noida.
Prime Minister inaugurated a 660 MW Panki Thermal Power Extension Project in Kanpur worth over Rs 8,300 crore enhancing Uttar Pradesh's energy capacity. He also inaugurated three 660 MW units of Ghatampur Thermal Power Project worth over Rs 9,330 crore bolstering the power supply significantly.
Prime Minister also inaugurated Rail over bridges over Panki Power House Railway Crossing and over Panki Dham Crossing on Panki Road at Kalyanpur Panki Mandir in Kanpur. It will support the Panki Thermal Power Extension Project's logistics by facilitating coal and oil transport while also alleviating traffic congestion for the local population.
Prime Minister inaugurated a 40 MLD (Million Liters per Day) Tertiary Treatment Plant at Bingawan in Kanpur worth over Rs 290 crore. It will enable the reuse of treated sewage water, promoting water conservation and sustainable resource management in the region.
In a major boost to road infrastructure in the region, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for widening and strengthening of Gauria Pali Marg for industrial development in Kanpur Nagar District; and widening and strengthening of road to connect Narwal Mode (AH-1) on Prayagraj Highway to Kanpur Defence Node (4 lane) under Defence Corridor in Kanpur Nagar District which will significantly improve connectivity for the Defence Corridor, enhancing logistics and accessibility.
Prime Minister also distributed certificates and cheques to the beneficiaries of PM Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojna, National Livelihood Mission and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
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ऑपरेशन सिंदूर में दुनिया ने भारत के स्वदेशी हथियारों और मेक इन इंडिया की ताकत भी देखी है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/Ae3V2c7i16
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 30, 2025
जो infrastructure, जो सुविधाएं, जो संसाधन बड़ी-बड़ी metro cities में होती हैं… वो सब अब अपने कानपुर में भी दिखने लगी हैं: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/jTSi04j0Bb
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 30, 2025
हम यूपी को औद्योगिक संभावनाओं का राज्य बना रहे हैं: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/FC4k8qxxJ6
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 30, 2025
