Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched multiple development projects worth ₹13,000 crore in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, comprising both inaugurations of completed projects and foundation stone laying for new initiatives. The projects focus on improving daily travel, strengthening industry and trade, and creating employment opportunities across the state.
Infrastructure Development
The urban development priority includes significant expansion of public transportation infrastructure. The Chennai Metro received additional stretches dedicated to public use, contributing to the national metro network growth from 250 km in 2014 to over 1,100 km currently, now serving 25 cities compared to only 5 cities previously. Road and rail projects were emphasized as critical for industrial progress and employment generation at multiple levels including engineers, technicians, and workers.
Manufacturing and Export Growth
The speech highlighted substantial manufacturing sector achievements, positioning India as the world's second-largest mobile manufacturer. Since 2014, electronics exports increased elevenfold, defence exports grew fiftyfold, and engineering exports set new records. This manufacturing growth has created millions of direct and indirect jobs, with Tamil Nadu making significant contributions to this national progress.
Port Infrastructure and Maritime Economy
A major investment of approximately ₹17,000 crore was announced to develop VOC Port at Thoothukudi into a world-class mega container and green energy hub. This transformation will enable docking of ultra-large container vessels and position Tamil Nadu as a global hub for industry and transportation. Port efficiency improvements have already reduced ship turnaround time by half, accelerating Indian products' reach to global markets.
Fisheries Sector Support
Through the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana and other schemes, projects worth thousands of crores have been approved for Tamil Nadu's fisheries sector. Initiatives include upgrading fishing harbours, developing fishing landing centres, enhancing cold chain facilities, and providing assistance for transport vehicles to maintain fish freshness. The Kisan Credit Card scheme now extends working capital access to fishermen. These efforts contributed to record seafood exports in both quantity and value terms last year, improving livelihoods in coastal communities.