Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the first phase of Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), describing it as a project that offers a glimpse of Viksit Bharat.
“The airport is built on the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and is shaped like a lotus flower. It will play a pivotal role in enhancing regional and global connectivity,” PM Modi said, highlighting the strategic significance of Mumbai welcoming its second international airport.
The Prime Minister noted that NMIA will ease congestion at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and significantly expand India’s aviation capacity, positioning Mumbai as a global hub of growth and opportunity.
He added that the airport will also help farmers connect with international markets in Europe and the Middle East.
PM Modi emphasised the government’s efforts to make air travel more affordable, citing the UDAN Yojana.
“Over the past decade, millions have taken their first flight thanks to this initiative. Airports and the UDAN scheme have made air travel accessible, making India the third-largest domestic aviation market in the world,” he said.
He recalled that in 2014, India had 74 airports, which have now grown to over 160, with a focus on making aviation available even to those in remote areas. The government also aims to establish India as a global aviation Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) hub by the end of the decade.
Modern Infrastructure and Seamless Mobility
Alongside NMIA, PM Modi inaugurated the first fully underground Mumbai Metro Line 3, a project expected to ease travel and save commuters valuable time.
He highlighted that such developments reflect India’s commitment to modern infrastructure and improving the ease of living in urban centres.
The Prime Minister further noted investments in projects like Atal Setu and Coastal Roads, stressing the integration of different transport modes for efficient and seamless connectivity.
PM Modi underlined that government initiatives focus on uplifting the poor, middle-class, and neo-middle-class families, enhancing their capabilities, and strengthening the nation.
He also referenced GST 2.0 reforms, which have contributed to lower commodity prices and increased purchasing power, reflected in record Navaratri sales this year.
The Prime Minister said that the inauguration of NMIA and Mumbai Metro Line 3 will position Mumbai as Asia’s premier connectivity hub, driving commerce, trade, and opportunity across the region.
Also Read: PM Modi Inaugurates Final Phase Of Mumbai Metro Line 3 And Launches ‘Mumbai One’ Mobility App
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