Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over ₹2,700 crore in Puducherry, marking a significant push for infrastructure, healthcare and tourism growth in the Union Territory.
Addressing a public gathering, the Prime Minister said that investments in spiritual tourism, eco-tourism and health tourism will elevate Puducherry to new heights. He highlighted the Union Territory’s rising per capita income and top social index ranking, adding that the “double-engine government” would accelerate growth further.
Major Healthcare Boost
Reiterating the government’s focus on accessible and affordable healthcare, Mr. Modi referred to the presence of nine medical colleges and the modernization of the Regional Cancer Centre at Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER). He also laid the foundation for new critical care blocks in Puducherry and Karaikal, expressing confidence that the region could emerge as a medical tourism hub.
He inaugurated projects worth ₹1,142.23 crore, including infrastructure upgrades under the Smart City Mission, such as the Integrated Command and Control Centre. Housing tenements for economically weaker sections and key sewerage and water supply projects were also launched.
Education, Industry and Connectivity
The Prime Minister announced the development of the 750-acre Karasur-Sedarapet Industrial Estate and inaugurated the composite engineering block of National Institute of Technology Karaikal along with new buildings at Pondicherry University.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, 41 rural roads will be constructed. Other projects include heritage town development, mangrove restoration and power sector reforms under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme.
Highlighting connectivity as the backbone of development, Mr. Modi noted that the East Coast Industrial Corridor will link Puducherry to major economic hubs such as Chennai, Bengaluru and Coimbatore, strengthening trade, tourism and industry.
Global Spirituality Mahotsav 2026
The Prime Minister also declared open the Global Spirituality Mahotsav 2026 at Auroville, recalling that Sri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa envisioned it as a Universal City of Consciousness.
Political Remarks
In his concluding remarks, Mr. Modi criticized previous Congress and DMK governments, alleging political instability and corruption had slowed Puducherry’s progress. He asserted that the current administration is committed to transparent governance and accelerated development.
Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Lieutenant Governor K. Kailashnathan, Chief Minister N. Rangasamy, and other dignitaries were present at the event.
