In a whirlwind visit to Maharashtra, Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a series of events that encompassed religious offerings, infrastructure inaugurations, and initiatives aimed at youth and women empowerment. The visit, marked by tight security, saw the Prime Minister participating in a range of activities that left an indelible mark on the state.
Inauguration of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu:
The highlight of PM Modi’s visit was the inauguration of the 21.8 km-long Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu sea link. This engineering marvel, built at a cost of about Rs 17,840 crore, stands as the longest bridge and sea bridge in the country. The infrastructure project is expected to enhance connectivity in the region significantly.
Religious offerings at Shree Kalaram Mandir:
Prime Minister Modi commenced his visit with spiritual engagements, offering prayers at Shree Kalaram Mandir in Nashik. The visit included participation in the recitation of the ‘Yudh Kanda’ segment from the Ramayana, highlighting Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya. The confluence of tradition and technology was evident as the recitation was done in Marathi, with the Prime Minister listening through AI translation in Hindi.
Tribute to Swami Vivekananda:
During his Nashik visit, PM Modi paid floral tribute to Swami Vivekananda on his birth anniversary, further emphasizing the cultural and spiritual aspects of his Maharashtra tour.
Empowering initiatives:
In a bid to empower women in Maharashtra, the Prime Minister launched the Namo Mahila Shashaktikaran Abhiyaan, focusing on skill development training and entrepreneurship exposure.
Infrastructure developments:
The visit also witnessed the laying of the foundation stone for an underground road tunnel connecting the Eastern Freeway’s Orange Gate, along with dedicating phase 1 of the Surya regional bulk drinking water project. The water project, developed at a cost of over Rs 1,975 crore, aims to provide drinking water supply to Palghar and Thane districts, benefiting around 14 lakh people.
Railway projects dedication:
PM Modi dedicated about Rs 2000 crore worth of railway projects to the nation during the visit. Notable among them is the ‘Phase 2 of Uran-Kharkopar railway line,’ enhancing connectivity to Navi Mumbai.
National Youth Festival and roadshow:
In Nashik, the Prime Minister held a roadshow, receiving an enthusiastic welcome from a cheering crowd. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar accompanied him. PM Modi also inaugurated and addressed the 27th National Youth Festival, emphasizing the youth’s role in shaping the nation’s future.
Tight security measures:
Given the significance of the visit, extensive security arrangements were put in place in Nashik. The security measures were particularly robust around the venues of the National Youth Festival inauguration and the Shree Kalaram Mandir prayers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Maharashtra showcased a blend of infrastructure development, cultural engagement, and initiatives for the empowerment of women and youth. The array of inaugurations and events underscored the government’s commitment to fostering growth and inclusivity in the state.