PM Narendra Modi is set to lay the foundation stone for a series of significant development initiatives in Maharashtra, valued at over Rs 7,600 crore, during a video conference scheduled for 1 PM on 9 October. Among the key projects is the upgradation of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, with a projected investment of approximately Rs 7,000 crore.
This ambitious project is anticipated to act as a catalyst for growth across various sectors, including manufacturing, aviation, tourism, logistics, and healthcare. The enhancements made to the airport will not only benefit Nagpur city but will also positively impact the broader Vidarbha region, fostering economic development and enhancing connectivity.
Another notable initiative involves the establishment of a New Integrated Terminal Building at Shirdi Airport, with an estimated cost of over Rs 645 crore. This terminal will cater to the needs of religious tourists visiting Shirdi, providing them with world-class facilities and amenities. The design of the terminal is inspired by the spiritual significance of the neem tree associated with Sai Baba, reflecting the cultural and religious essence of the area.
In alignment with his commitment to ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare for all citizens, the Prime Minister will also operationalize ten Government Medical Colleges located throughout Maharashtra. These institutions will be situated in Mumbai, Nashik, Jalna, Amravati, Gadchiroli, Buldhana, Washim, Bhandara, Hingoli, and Ambernath (Thane).
The establishment of these colleges aims to enhance both undergraduate and postgraduate medical education while providing specialized tertiary healthcare services to the community, ultimately improving the healthcare landscape of the state.
Furthering his vision to make India the “Skill Capital of the World,” PM Modi will inaugurate the Indian Institute of Skills (IIS) in Mumbai. This institute aims to develop a skilled workforce equipped with advanced technologies and practical training.
Established through a Public-Private Partnership model, it is a collaboration between the Tata Education and Development Trust and the Government of India. The IIS is set to provide training in cutting-edge fields such as mechatronics, artificial intelligence, data analytics, industrial automation, and robotics, preparing students for the demands of the modern job market.
Additionally, the PM will unveil the Vidya Samiksha Kendra (VSK) in Maharashtra, which is designed to provide students, educators, and administrators with access to critical academic and administrative data. This initiative will utilize live chatbots, such as Smart Upasthiti and Swadhyay, to facilitate communication and streamline information flow.
The VSK will offer valuable insights to schools, allowing them to manage resources more effectively, strengthen the connection between parents and the state, and deliver responsive support to students. Furthermore, it will provide curated instructional resources aimed at enhancing teaching practices and improving student learning outcomes.
These initiatives reflect PM Modi’s dedication to fostering development and progress in Maharashtra, with a focus on improving infrastructure, healthcare, education, and skills training, ultimately benefiting the entire state and its citizens.