PM Modi Launches ₹24,000 Cr Projects in Dahod, Gujarat

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated, and dedicated to the nation a series of development projects in Dahod today, with a combined value exceeding ₹24,000 crore. In a grand public address attended by thousands, the Prime Minister marked the occasion as a deeply personal and nationally significant milestone, commemorating May 26 as the date he took oath as the Prime Minister of India for the first time in 2014.

Shri Modi expressed gratitude for the unflinching support of the people of Gujarat, noting that their trust had fueled his unwavering commitment to national development. “The encouragement of my people has made it possible for India to take bold, historic decisions—breaking free from decades of stagnation and ushering in a new era of self-confidence and growth,” he said. “Today, India stands transformed—no longer bound by despair, but driven by aspiration.”

India’s Manufacturing Prowess on Display

A key highlight of the event was the inauguration of the Dahod Electric Locomotive Factory, a project close to the Prime Minister’s heart. Having laid its foundation stone three years ago, Shri Modi was proud to flag off the first electric locomotive built at the plant—a powerful 9,000-horsepower engine designed for both domestic use and export. The factory, a symbol of India’s growing self-reliance, will significantly boost the country’s manufacturing and railway capabilities.

“India is now exporting locomotives, metro coaches, and railway components to countries like Australia, the UK, France, Saudi Arabia, and even to Mozambique and Sri Lanka,” Shri Modi said. “The ‘Make in India’ initiative is not just a slogan—it’s a movement, and Dahod stands as a glowing testament to its success.”

He further announced that Gujarat had achieved 100% railway electrification—a historic milestone that will enhance efficiency, reduce emissions, and improve connectivity across the state.

Transforming Dahod Into a Growth Engine

Shri Modi recalled his early visits to Dahod as a young man, reminiscing about his travels through the region by bicycle. “My understanding of Dahod—its problems and its potential—comes from years of firsthand experience,” he stated. “Every step of development here brings me personal joy.”

Among the various infrastructure initiatives, the Prime Minister also launched an express train between Dahod and Valsad, aimed at connecting the tribal belt with the rest of Gujarat. This connectivity, he emphasized, will create large-scale employment, stimulate trade, and improve the standard of living in rural and tribal regions.

The rail factory in Dahod is set to produce hundreds of powerful locomotives in the coming years. The project is expected to catalyze the local economy by generating employment not only in the factory itself but also in auxiliary industries such as component manufacturing, agriculture, and retail.

High-Tech Corridor to Propel Gujarat’s Industrial Future

Shri Modi envisioned a high-tech engineering and manufacturing corridor spanning Dahod, Vadodara, Kalol, Halol, and Godhra. This growing industrial belt is positioning itself as a key hub for railways, semiconductors, aerospace, and defense sectors.

“Vadodara has already launched the Airbus assembly line and is home to India’s first Gati Shakti University,” he said. “Savli has a major rail car factory, and now Dahod joins this ecosystem with its locomotive plant. Together, these regions are scripting a new chapter in India’s industrial journey.”

Gujarat’s semiconductor sector also received a boost with the announcement of a new mega-plant, expected to generate thousands of jobs and strengthen India’s position in the global electronics market.

Empowering Tribal India

A major focus of the Prime Minister’s address was the upliftment of tribal communities. Drawing on his extensive experience in Gujarat’s tribal regions, Shri Modi emphasized that empowering these communities is vital to building a truly developed India.

He highlighted several national-level initiatives that have transformed education and infrastructure in tribal belts over the past 11 years. These include:

• Eklavya Model Schools and tribal universities in Dahod and surrounding regions
• Expansion of ITIs, medical colleges, and quality science education
• PM Janman Yojana, aimed at supporting Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)
• Dhartii Aaba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, a ₹80,000 crore initiative transforming over 60,000 tribal villages with roads, water, electricity, and pucca homes
• A national mission to eradicate sickle cell anemia through mass screening and healthcare services

“Dahod was once listed among the most backward districts in the country. Today, it stands tall as an Aspirational District with modern infrastructure and inclusive growth,” Shri Modi said.

Water Security and Agricultural Prosperity

The Prime Minister also addressed critical concerns of water scarcity in South Dahod. Thanks to extensive pipeline projects, Narmada water is now reaching households and farms, benefiting millions. Over 11 lakh acres of tribal farmlands across Gujarat have been connected to irrigation systems, enabling better agricultural productivity and economic resilience.

Honoring Women and the Armed Forces

Modi paid a heartfelt tribute to the thousands of women in Vadodara who gathered to show their unwavering support for the armed forces. He remarked, “India draws its true strength from the devotion of its mothers and sisters,” emphasizing that their solidarity reflects the nation’s deep-rooted cultural and moral values.

He also recounted Operation Sindoor, a swift and decisive military response to a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. “India does not stay silent in the face of injustice. Our forces acted with unmatched precision, destroying nine terror hubs across the border within 22 minutes,” he declared, lauding the bravery and professionalism of India’s military.

A Nation Focused on Development, Not Division

Drawing a sharp contrast with India’s hostile neighbors, the Prime Minister said, “While some countries focus on nurturing terrorism, India is focused on ending poverty, building infrastructure, and empowering its citizens. Our commitment to development and peace is unwavering.”

He reiterated that a developed India requires both strong economic foundations and robust national security—pillars that the government continues to strengthen.

The Future of Dahod

Closing his address with optimism, Prime Minister Modi expressed full confidence in the people of Dahod, declaring the event not just as an inauguration of new projects, but as a symbol of Dahod’s untapped potential.

“Dahod will become one of the most developed districts in India,” he said. “With hard work, determination, and the right resources, the people of Dahod will lead Gujarat—and the nation—into a new age of growth and prosperity.”

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel and Union Minister for Railways, IT, and Broadcasting Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, who echoed the Prime Minister’s vision of inclusive and transformative development for Gujarat and the nation.