The News Freedom
Kavaratti, January 3
Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a significant initiative today in Kavaratti of Lakshadweep, inaugurating and dedicating multiple development projects totaling over Rs 1150 crores. These projects encompass diverse sectors such as technology, energy, water resources, healthcare, and education, reflecting a comprehensive approach to regional advancement.
During the ceremony, the Prime Minister distributed laptops to students as part of the Laptop Scheme and handed out bicycles under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative. Additionally, he facilitated farmer and fishermen beneficiaries with PM Kisan Credit Cards, underscoring the government’s commitment to holistic empowerment.
Addressing the audience, Prime Minister Modi expressed awe at the natural beauty of Lakshadweep and spoke warmly about interacting with the citizens in Agatti, Bangaram, and Kavaratti. He praised the depth of the people’s hearts, likening them to the vastness of the ocean, and expressed gratitude for their presence.
Highlighting the historical neglect faced by remote and coastal areas, the Prime Minister emphasized his government’s dedication to prioritizing these regions. He commended the local community for the various infrastructure, connectivity, and healthcare projects, acknowledging their significance in the area’s progress.
Modi underscored the government’s commitment to Lakshadweep’s development, citing achievements such as the saturation of PM Awas Yojna (Gramin), the provision of free rations to beneficiaries, and the implementation of healthcare initiatives like Ayushman Arogya Mandir Health and Wellness Centre. He reassured the audience of the government’s focus on inclusive delivery of schemes through Direct Benefit Transfer, effectively curbing corruption.
Touching upon the promise made in 2020 to provide fast internet within 1000 days, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fiber Connection (KLI – SOFC) project. He highlighted its potential to revolutionize services like government assistance, medical care, education, and digital banking, also emphasizing its role in boosting Lakshadweep’s prospects as a logistics hub.
PM Modi celebrated the Low Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) plant at Kadmat, a significant step towards providing piped water to every household in Lakshadweep.
Moreover, the Prime Minister lauded ecologist Ali Manikfan for his conservation efforts in Lakshadweep and highlighted the government’s support, including awarding him the Padma Shree in 2021. He stressed the government’s focus on youth empowerment, mentioning initiatives like distributing laptops and bicycles to students and the establishment of educational institutions, aiming to prevent the exodus of young talent from the islands.
In closing, Prime Minister Modi affirmed the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and education, offering opportunities for Lakshadweep’s youth to thrive and contribute to the region’s growth.