Prime Minister on Thursday said India is witnessing a historic push to build modern infrastructure aimed at driving development and progress across the nation.
Addressing a programme from Bikaner, he inaugurated 103 revamped railway stations across 18 states, part of the ongoing Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The prime minister underlined the scale of change, noting that India’s infrastructure investments have grown significantly over the last 11 years. “India is modernising its rail network. This reflects the new speed and progress of the country,” Modi said. He added that Vande Bharat trains now serve nearly 70 routes, expanding access to far-flung areas. Modi highlighted that hundreds of new railway bridges and tracks have been completed, while work is ongoing on India’s first bullet train project. More than 1,300 railway stations are being redeveloped to include modern amenities while preserving regional architectural identity. “These Amrit Bharat Stations aren’t just transit points—they reflect local heritage and support tourism. They will create jobs and boost the local economy,” he said. The stations also showcase local art and culture, integrating development with India’s traditional identity.
He emphasised that infrastructure spending fuels employment across sectors—from construction workers to transporters and small business owners. “Every rupee spent on infrastructure is going to labourers, shopkeepers, factory workers and truck drivers,” he noted. Highlighting regional gains, the prime minister said Rajasthan alone has received nearly ₹70,000 crore in road infrastructure investment in the past decade. The Centre will spend ₹10,000 crore on the state’s railways this year—15 times more than pre-2014 levels. He also said the state’s refinery project is nearing completion, expected to boost petroleum-based industries. Modi also flagged progress on solar and irrigation fronts. Over 40,000 Rajasthan residents have benefited from the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, with solar panels helping them eliminate electricity bills and generate income. On water resources, he pointed to irrigation and river-linking efforts, including the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project, which is set to support farmers in western Rajasthan.
During the event, the prime minister also inaugurated the Deshnok railway station, redesigned in the style of the nearby Karni Mata temple, and flagged off the Bikaner-Mumbai Express. With infrastructure emerging as a pillar of India’s development journey, the prime minister’s message was clear—modernisation is not just a policy priority but a national mission.
