Palghar: In a significant boost to Maharashtra’s infrastructure and fisheries sector, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several key development projects in Palghar. These include the foundation stone of the Vadhvan Port, a mega project estimated to cost around Rs 76,000 crore, and the launch of 218 fisheries projects worth Rs 1,560 crore.
Vadhvan Port: A Maritime Game-Changer
The Vadhvan Port, located near Dahanu in Palghar district, is set to become one of India’s largest deep-water ports, aimed at bolstering the nation’s maritime capabilities. With a projected cost of Rs 76,000 crore, the port will cater to ultra-large cargo ships, offering direct connectivity to international shipping routes and significantly reducing transit times and costs. The Prime Minister highlighted that the Vadhvan Port will be a pivotal hub in India’s maritime trade, creating over 12 lakh job opportunities and transforming the economic landscape of the region.
Fisheries Sector Gets a Boost
In addition to the port, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 218 fisheries projects worth Rs 1,560 crore. These projects focus on developing and upgrading fishing harbours, fish landing centers, and constructing fish markets across the country. The initiatives are expected to generate over five lakh employment opportunities in the fisheries sector.
The Prime Minister also launched the National Rollout of the Vessel Communication and Support System, a Rs 360 crore project aimed at enhancing safety and communication for fishermen at sea. Developed by ISRO, this indigenous technology will see the installation of one lakh transponders on mechanized and motorized fishing vessels across 13 coastal states and Union Territories.
A Historic Day for Maharashtra
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi described the day as historic for both Maharashtra and the nation. He emphasized Maharashtra’s crucial role in India’s economic development and reiterated his government’s commitment to transforming the state into a “Viksit Maharashtra,” a vital part of the vision for a “Viksit Bharat.”
The Prime Minister also paid tribute to Maharashtra’s rich maritime history, recalling the contributions of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who strengthened India’s naval power. He criticized previous governments for neglecting the state’s maritime potential and assured that the current government is committed to reviving and modernizing India’s maritime infrastructure.
Fishermen and Coastal Communities: Key Beneficiaries
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the government’s focus on the welfare of fishermen and coastal communities. He noted that India is now the second-largest fish-producing country globally, with fish production doubling in the last decade. The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s efforts to empower women in the fisheries sector and improve the livelihoods of those involved through various initiatives, including the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana.
A Vision for the Future
The Prime Minister concluded his address by reiterating the government’s commitment to inclusive development, ensuring that the benefits of growth reach every section of society. He expressed confidence that Maharashtra, with the support of its people, will continue to climb new heights of development.
The event was attended by several prominent leaders, including the Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C P Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Shri Eknath Shinde, and Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Devendra Fadnavis and Shri Ajit Pawar, among others.