Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, January 2, inaugurated the newly constructed terminal 2 of the international airport in Trichy. The terminal is said to have been constructed at a cost of Rs 1100 crores and is expected to serve 44 lakh passengers every year. Parts of the airport’s outer facade and interiors have been inspired by Tamil temple architecture. At the inauguration PM Modi also flagged off multiple developmental projects worth Rs 19,850 crores in Tamil Nadu, and projects worth Rs 110 crores in Lakshadweep.
Speaking at the inaugural event, Modi wished everyone present for the New Year and said, “It is my privilege that my first public programme in 2024 is happening in Tamil Nadu. Today developmental projects worth Rs 20,000 crores will strengthen Tamil Nadu’s progress. I congratulate you for these projects spanning roadways, railways, ports, airports, energy and petroleum pipelines. Many of these projects will improve ease of travel and create thousands of employment opportunities.”
The Prime Minister also announced providing relief to the flood-affected districts in the state. “ The last few weeks of 2023 were difficult for many people in Tamil Nadu. We lost many of our citizens due to the rains. There has also been significant loss of property. I was deeply moved by the condition of the affected families. The central government stands with the people of Tamil Nadu in this time of crisis. We are providing every possible support to the state government.”
Modi further claimed that while the previous UPA government gave Rs 30 lakh crore to states, the BJP government gave Rs 120 lakh crore in the last 10 years, he said. “We have given Tamil Nadu 2.5 times more than that was given from 2004-2014.” He went on to say that in 2023, more than 40 Union government ministers visited Tamil Nadu more than 400 times, adding, “When Tamil Nadu progresses rapidly, India will also progress rapidly.”
He also extended his grief over the recent demise of actor and Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) chief Vijayakant. “It was only days ago that we lost Vijayakant. He was a captain not only in the world of cinema but also in the world of politics. He won the hearts of the people through his films. As a politician, he always put national interests above everything else. I pay my tributes to him. I also offer my condolences to his family and friends.”
Similarly, acknowledging the contribution of agricultural scientist Dr MS Swaminathan who passed away in September last year, he said, “We also remember another son of Tamil Nadu, Dr Swaminathan. He played an important role in ensuring food security for our country. We lost him last year as well.”
“In the coming 25 years, we have to make India a developed country. When I speak about a developed India, there are two sides to it: economics and culture. In this regard, I can see that Tamil Nadu has made great contributions to this. Tamil Nadu is an example of India’s growth and culture,” the Prime Minister also said.