PM Modi commemorates Lakshadweep with development projects worth Rs 1,150 Crore

Kavaratti: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Lakshadweep to inaugurate and lay the foundation for diverse projects totaling Rs 1,150 crore in the Union Territory.

The visit aimed at bolstering connectivity, infrastructure, and welfare initiatives in the archipelago.

Expressing gratitude and acknowledging the warm reception, PM Modi highlighted the magnanimity of the people of Lakshadweep. He remarked, "The area of Lakshadweep may be small, but the people here have a big heart. I am overwhelmed by the love and blessings I am receiving here. I express my gratitude to you all."

Addressing a gathering comprising hundreds of islanders, including women and children, the Prime Minister emphasised the neglect faced by remote regions like Lakshadweep under previous governments. He contrasted the developmental focus of his government, particularly highlighting the significance given to border areas and coastal regions.

"In the last 10 years, our government has made border areas and locations at the edge of the sea its priority," PM Modi stated, underscoring the transformative efforts directed towards uplifting these regions.

Among the major initiatives inaugurated was the Kochi-Lakshadweep Submarine Optical Fibre Project, a promise made during his 2020 Independence Day speech. This project aims to drastically enhance internet connectivity, catapulting internet speeds by over 100 times, and fostering advancements in telemedicine, education, e-governance, and digital infrastructure on the islands.

Another milestone achievement unveiled by PM Modi was the Low-Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) plant at Kadmat, designed to produce 1.5 lakh litres of potable water daily. Additionally, the Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) initiative was launched, ensuring access to clean water in all households on the Agatti and Minicoy islands.

Other significant projects inaugurated included the first battery-backed solar power plant in Lakshadweep at Kavaratti, marking a shift towards sustainable energy solutions. Furthermore, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the refurbishment of the primary healthcare facility in Kalpeni and the establishment of five model Anganwadi centres across different islands, aiming to enhance healthcare and childcare facilities in the region.

The visit underscored the government's commitment to the holistic development of Lakshadweep, focusing on essential infrastructure upgrades, sustainable energy solutions, and improved connectivity, thereby fostering a brighter future for the islanders.