Centre Committed to Helping TN Scale New Heights: PM Modi
With this message of cooperative federalism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a gathering at IIT Madras, launching and laying the foundation stones for development projects worth ₹13,000 crore
CHENNAI: “We want to make Tamil Nadu continuously reach new heights. And for this, whatever help is needed from the Centre, we stand with you with full commitment. Let us come together to realise the vision of a developed Tamil Nadu for a developed Bharat”, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
With this message of cooperative federalism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a gathering at IIT Madras, launching and laying the foundation stones for development projects worth ₹13,000 crore. Highlighting infrastructure, connectivity, and industrial growth, the Prime Minister noted that empowering individual states remains the cornerstone of building a developed India.
During his visit, Modi toured the Brain Research Centre at IIT Madras and dedicated a new phase of the Chennai Metro to the public. He emphasised that modern urban centres require comprehensive transit systems rather than mere road widening. Across the nation, he observed, metro networks have expanded from 250 kms in five cities in 2014 to over 1,100 kms across 25 cities today, making daily commutes faster and smoother for students, workers, and senior citizens.
Reflecting on completing 25 continuous years in public office since taking oath as Gujarat Chief Minister in October 2001, Modi reaffirmed his commitment to collaborative governance. He recalled his past interactions with former CMs of Tamil Nadu — M. Karunanidhi, J. Jayalalithaa, O. Panneerselvam, and Edappadi K. Palaniswamy and MK Stalin - to ensure sustained regional progress.
"And today, with that same resolve, we are moving forward on this journey of Tamil Nadu's development together with Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay."
Turning to industrial development, the Prime Minister praised Tamil Nadu’s manufacturing capabilities and small-scale industries, which have gained momentum through ‘Make in India’ and ‘Vocal for Local’ initiatives. He underscored major maritime investments, notably the ₹17,000-crore project to transform the V.O. Chidambaranar Port in Thoothukudi into a world-class mega container and green energy hub.
Modi also reiterated support for coastal communities under the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, citing initiatives such as modernising the Chennai Fishing Harbour, establishing seaweed parks, expanding Kisan Credit Cards to fishers, and achieving record seafood export volumes. He concluded by reiterating the Centre's steadfast backing to accelerate Tamil Nadu's progress.
