PM Modi steps up Punjab poll pitch, vows faster development despite BJP being out of power
PM Narendra Modi on Friday addressed a public meeting in Jalandhar after inaugurating and laying the foundation stone for rail and road infrastructure projects worth Rs 5,470 crore, using the platform to underline the Centre's development push in Punjab ahead of the state's political season.
Addressing the gathering, Modi said Jalandhar was becoming a 'witness to development' as multiple infrastructure projects were dedicated to the people.
He asserted that the Union government was committed to Punjab's progress irrespective of the political landscape in the state.
'Although the BJP is not in power in Punjab, the Centre is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the state's development,' the PM said, highlighting the government's focus on improving infrastructure and connectivity.
Earlier in the day, Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of rail and road infrastructure projects, including 75 redeveloped railway stations, worth Rs 5,470 crore, in Jalandhar.
The projects are aimed at strengthening connectivity, improving passenger convenience, and accelerating economic development across the region.
The PM also flagged off the Amritsar (Chheharta)-Varanasi Sant Ravidas Express, establishing a direct rail link between two revered spiritual and cultural centres.
Modi arrived in Jalandhar after unveiling development projects in Chandigarh and Haryana's Jind, where he flagged off India's first hydrogen-powered train.
This marked his second visit to Jalandhar this year after he visited the Dera Sachkhand Ballan in February.