“Modern Delhi Key to India’s Image”: PM Modi

• PM Modi launches development projects worth ₹33,500 crore in Delhi
• New Metro sections to improve connectivity in East and North-East Delhi
• Highlights role of Nari Shakti in India’s progress
• Announces SVANidhi credit cards for street vendors

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 8th March: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth around ₹33,500 crore in Delhi, stating that modernising the national capital is essential for strengthening India’s global image.

Addressing a gathering after launching the projects, the Prime Minister said the initiatives would enhance infrastructure, improve connectivity and make daily life more convenient for the residents of the capital.

“We are committed to building a modern and Viksit Delhi. The projects launched today will strengthen infrastructure, improve connectivity and enhance the ease of living for people of the city,” Modi said.

The projects include the expansion of the Delhi Metro network, new residential complexes for government employees and various urban infrastructure initiatives.

The Prime Minister said the new metro sections inaugurated on the occasion would bring major convenience to commuters, particularly residents of East and North-East Delhi.

“The new metro section started today will provide major convenience to lakhs of people in the capital. The daily commute will now be much easier than ever before,” he said.

Referring to the broader importance of the capital city, Modi said Delhi’s development reflects the progress of the entire country.

“The development of Delhi is not just the development of one city; it is linked to the image of the entire country,” he said.

Highlighting improvements in public transport, the Prime Minister noted that the metro network has expanded to around 375 kilometres, while thousands of electric buses are now operating in the city to promote clean and efficient mobility.

He also referred to initiatives aimed at improving the urban environment, including projects for the rejuvenation of the Yamuna River and the diversion of heavy traffic through the Peripheral Expressway.

Earlier in the day, Modi visited Sarojini Nagar, where he inaugurated modern residential complexes for government employees and handed over keys to beneficiaries.

He said such housing projects aim to ensure safe and comfortable living conditions for government employees who contribute to national development.

The Prime Minister also highlighted welfare schemes such as the PM SVANidhi Yojana, noting that nearly two lakh street vendors in Delhi have received financial assistance of over ₹350 crore under the scheme.

Announcing a new initiative, he said street vendors will now be provided SVANidhi credit cards, allowing them easier access to formal financial services.

“Now our street vendor companions will have a credit card in their own pocket, which they will be able to use according to their needs,” he said.

Marking International Women’s Day, the Prime Minister praised the growing role of women in nation-building.

“Whether it is politics, administration, science, sports or social service, India’s Nari Shakti is moving forward with a new energy in every field,” he said.

He added that women’s empowerment remains a central focus of the government’s development agenda and is crucial for achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat.

During his address, Modi also criticised the West Bengal government over the alleged mismanagement of President Droupadi Murmu’s programme in the state, calling it an insult to constitutional institutions.

Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister said Delhi is witnessing a new phase of transformation driven by the confidence of a “New India”.

“The self-confidence of New India will lead us toward a developed future, and every family in Delhi will see a better and more prosperous life,” he said.