Daijiworld Media Network - Guwahati

Guwahati, Mar 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated and laid foundation stones for development projects worth about Rs 19,500 crore in Guwahati, marking a major push for infrastructure and energy development in the state.

Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister extended greetings to the people of the city, farmers joining the programme from across the country, and workers in Assam’s tea gardens. He also expressed gratitude for visiting the sacred site of Kamakhya Temple ahead of Navratri.

Modi said the projects launched would strengthen Assam’s growth across multiple sectors, including renewable energy, connectivity and infrastructure. He highlighted the Lower Kopili Hydro Electric Project as a key initiative that will benefit not only Assam but the entire North-East region.

“These projects worth thousands of crores will create new employment opportunities for the youth and accelerate the state’s prosperity,” the Prime Minister said, adding that the government’s focus is on development for every region and section of society.

He also spoke about initiatives aimed at improving the lives of tea garden workers in the state, acknowledging their role in giving Assam global recognition for its tea industry.

Praising Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his administration, Modi said efforts are underway to address long-standing issues faced by tea garden communities. According to him, families associated with tea gardens are now being provided land rights, paving the way for them to receive permanent housing.

The Prime Minister added that women in tea garden communities will particularly benefit from these initiatives, while improved educational facilities will help children from such families access better opportunities in the future.