Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated, dedicated to the nation, and laid the foundation stone of development projects worth approximately ₹2,970 crore in Daman on June 5, 2026. The projects span multiple sectors including healthcare, aviation, tourism, and infrastructure, aimed at transforming lives across the Union Territory.
Economic Context
The Prime Minister highlighted India's strong economic foundation, noting that the country achieved a growth rate of 7.7% for the fiscal year 2025-26. Specifically, the quarter ending March 31, 2026, recorded a growth rate of 7.8%. Despite global crises, the collective efforts of 1.4 billion citizens have enabled India to not only sustain itself but also succeed in staying ahead of the curve.
Healthcare Achievements
Significant progress in healthcare was emphasized through National Family Health Survey findings. Institutional deliveries have increased dramatically, with over 90% of all child deliveries now occurring in hospitals, compared to most deliveries occurring outside hospitals previously. Mission Indradhanush has driven child immunization rates from 60% pre-2014 to nearly 90% currently. The Ayushman Bharat scheme has provided Ayushman cards to even the poorest citizens, ensuring free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh, resulting in savings of approximately ₹2.25 lakh crore for poor and middle-class families through Ayushman cards and Jan Aushadhi Kendras.
Infrastructure and Development Projects
Key projects include the Namo Airport and the Damanganga bridge, which are seen as stepping stones to global prominence. The Transport Nagar facility is expected to boost trade and logistics. Diu has achieved the milestone of powering all government buildings entirely through solar energy, with plans to expand decentralized green power generation to homes. The region has also seen massive plantation drives and rooftop solar initiatives.
Tourism and Cultural Development
Tourism footfall has increased tenfold over the last few years, attributed to the development of modernized sea-fronts, heritage complexes, and pristine beaches. Notable spots include the Daman Night Market and Namo Path Sea-front. The 'Dekho Apna Desh' campaign is revitalizing heritage, eco, and adventure tourism sectors, promoting local art and culture while connecting small places with massive opportunities.
Education and Skill Development
The educational landscape has improved with the establishment of smart classrooms and the Swami Vivekananda Education Hub, reducing the need for youth to migrate for higher studies. The eighteenth NIFT campus was founded, and advanced technical courses were introduced at ITI Daman. Schemes like the Saraswati Cycle Scheme and Saraswati Vidya Yojana are specifically designed to uplift young women.
Sports and MSME Support
Initiatives like Khelo India have democratized sports, shifting focus from metropolitan stadiums to local arenas, with Diu emerging as a premier beach sports destination. The region, particularly Dadra and Nagar Haveli, is recognized as the National Man-Made Fibre Capital, with continuous financial support provided to local MSMEs to foster a robust manufacturing ecosystem.