GG News Bureau
Katra, 6th June: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday laid the foundation stone, inaugurated, and dedicated development projects worth over ₹46,000 crore in Jammu and Kashmir, marking a transformative milestone for the region. Addressing a public event in Katra, PM Modi described the inauguration of mega infrastructure projects as a “turning point in Jammu and Kashmir’s development journey.”
Among the highlights were the inauguration of the Chenab Bridge—the world’s highest railway arch bridge—and the Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge. These engineering marvels, part of the long-awaited Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Line Project, are expected to revolutionize connectivity and boost tourism and trade in the region.
“From Kashmir to Kanyakumari is no longer just a slogan—it is now a reality in our railway network,” PM Modi said. He hailed the completion of the rail link as a symbol of a new and empowered Jammu and Kashmir, and praised the dedication of engineers and workers who made it possible despite daunting terrain and climate challenges.
The Prime Minister also flagged off Vande Bharat trains and laid the foundation stone for a new medical college in Reasi, reaffirming the government’s commitment to healthcare, education, and infrastructure in the region. He announced that the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence will expand its capacity from 300 to 500 beds.
Speaking on broader national schemes, PM Modi highlighted the government’s achievements over the past 11 years, including Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, PM-KISAN, Swachh Bharat, and Jal Jeevan Mission, crediting them with lifting 25 crore people out of poverty.
Condemning Pakistan for its recent actions, including the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, PM Modi said: “Whenever Pakistan hears the name Operation Sindoor, it will be reminded of its shameful defeat.” He underscored India’s resolve to fight terrorism, announcing additional compensation of ₹2 lakh for families whose homes were destroyed in cross-border shelling.
The Prime Minister also announced the construction of two new Border Battalions, two Women Battalions, and nearly 10,000 bunkers for border residents, calling them “the nation’s frontline protectors.” Infrastructure upgrades include six-laning of the Kathua-Jammu Highway and widening of the Akhnoor-Poonch Highway.
Calling on the youth to join India’s Mission Manufacturing, PM Modi urged support for Atmanirbhar Bharat and emphasized India’s emergence as a defense exporter. “The strength of our armed forces lies in ‘Make in India’. Let us make this our national mantra,” he asserted.
Concluding his address, PM Modi assured the people of Jammu and Kashmir of continued support and collaboration, stating, “The region is the crown jewel of India. Together, we will make it shine brighter.”
