Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stones for multiple development projects in Maharashtra worth over ₹7600 crore during a virtual ceremony today. The initiatives, aimed at strengthening infrastructure, improving healthcare, and boosting connectivity, mark a significant step in the state’s overall development. Among the key highlights were the foundation stones for the upgradation of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur and the New Integrated Terminal Building at Shirdi Airport.
The Prime Minister also inaugurated 10 Government Medical Colleges in Maharashtra, which will add 900 medical seats and enhance healthcare services across districts such as Mumbai, Nashik, Jalna, Amravati, Gadchiroli, and others. In addition to bolstering healthcare infrastructure, these medical colleges are aligned with the government’s long-term vision of making medical education more accessible, particularly for youth from poor and middle-class backgrounds. The availability of medical education in the Marathi language was emphasized as a vital step to empower local students.
The launch of the Indian Institute of Skills (IIS) Mumbai and the Vidya Samiksha Kendra in Maharashtra further reinforces the government’s focus on skill development. IIS, established under a public-private partnership, will provide specialized training in advanced areas such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and mechatronics, equipping the Indian workforce for global challenges. Meanwhile, the Vidya Samiksha Kendra will utilize live data and innovative technologies to strengthen the educational framework in the state.
In his address, Modi highlighted that Maharashtra has never seen development at such an accelerated pace, with projects spanning sectors like metro networks, solar energy, and textile parks. He also celebrated the recent recognition of Marathi as a classical language, calling it a historic fulfillment of the state’s long-standing dream.
The modernization of Nagpur and Shirdi airports is expected to catalyze growth across various sectors, including tourism and logistics, while facilitating better connectivity for both domestic and international travelers. The Shirdi Airport’s new terminal is set to provide world-class amenities to spiritual tourists visiting Sai Baba’s shrine, boosting religious tourism in the region.
The Prime Minister underscored the broader national goals of lifting millions out of poverty, improving healthcare access through initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, and aligning Indian youth’s skills with global standards. Projects such as the upgradation of Wadhawan Port and the expansion of Maharashtra’s airports, Modi noted, are key to positioning India as a global economic powerhouse.
The announcement of paid internships for students, alongside the strides made in affordable healthcare, showcased the government’s commitment to empowering the youth and ensuring social security for the poorest sections of society.
