Kavaratti (Lakshadweep): Prime Minister Modi marked the inauguration of numerous projects totaling Rs 1,156 crores in Kavaratti, Lakshadweep, highlighting the region's small geographical expanse but enormous spirit.

During the ceremony, PM Modi expressed gratitude, stating, "The area of Lakshadweep may be small, but its heart is huge. I am overwhelmed by the love and blessings I am receiving here. I pay my gratitude to you all."

Assuring faster internet connectivity, he announced, "In 2020, I promised rapid internet services within the next 1000 days. Today, the Kochi-Lakshadweep Submarine Optical Fiber Project has been launched, promising internet speeds 100 times faster than before."

Reflecting on past negligence of remote areas, PM Modi emphasized a significant shift in priorities. He remarked, "After independence, the focus of successive governments was primarily their own political development. However, our government has prioritized neglected border areas and coastal regions in the last decade."

Discussing the blue economy, PM Modi highlighted, "India aims to expand its share in the global seafood market, benefiting regions like Lakshadweep. Tuna fish exports to Japan and initiatives in seaweed cultivation signify growth potential for the region."

Underlining the commitment to sustainable development, PM Modi cited the inauguration of Lakshadweep's first battery-backed Solar Power Plant as a pivotal step. "Our government is dedicated to sustainable development. This Solar Power Plant utilizing the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) signifies progress towards a cleaner environment and reduced impact on the ocean ecosystem," he stated.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also engaged with beneficiaries of various government schemes in Lakshadweep, witnessing firsthand their success stories. Expressing satisfaction, he mentioned, "It is heartening to see the impact of development reaching even the most remote sections of society."

Later today, PM Modi is set to address a gathering of two lakh women from diverse backgrounds at the BJP's Mahila Conference in Thrissur, Kerala. The conference, titled 'Sthree Shakthi Modikk Oppam' (Empower Women with Modi), commends the passage of the Women's Reservation Bill.

Previously, in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, PM Modi inaugurated projects worth over Rs 20,000 crore, including the Demonstration Fast Reactor Fuel Reprocessing Plant (DFRP) and the new terminal at Tiruchirappalli International Airport, highlighting strides towards infrastructural development and connectivity enhancement.

The railway projects inaugurated by PM Modi in Tamil Nadu are anticipated to bolster freight and passenger transport capacities, contributing significantly to economic growth and job creation in the state.