Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple infrastructure projects worth over ₹830 crore in Singur, West Bengal, asserting that central government initiatives will significantly accelerate the state’s development.
Addressing a public rally after the inauguration, PM Modi said that projects undertaken by the Centre are aimed at strengthening infrastructure, improving connectivity, and creating new economic opportunities across West Bengal. He reiterated the Union government’s commitment to supporting the state’s growth journey through sustained development initiatives.
Singur holds strong political significance in West Bengal, as it was the focal point of the 2006 agitation led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee against the then Left Front government over land acquisition for the Tata Motors Nano project. The movement eventually marked Mamata Banerjee’s rise as a major political force in the state.
During his address, the Prime Minister criticised the Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led state government, alleging that it prevents the benefits of central welfare schemes from reaching the people of West Bengal. He cited the example of a digital platform created by the Centre to register fishermen nationwide, claiming that the state government had stalled its implementation.
PM Modi also renewed his pitch for a “double-engine government” in West Bengal, stating that development would accelerate if the same party governed both the Centre and the state. He highlighted the potential of district-specific development under the BJP’s “One District, One Product” scheme, citing local strengths such as Dhaniakhali sarees, jute, and traditional handloom industries.
“Every district of West Bengal has something special. When schemes are designed specifically for districts, people receive direct benefits. BJP will amplify these strengths and support industries nurtured by generations,” the Prime Minister said.
He further urged voters to hold the TMC government accountable in the upcoming Assembly elections, describing it as “cruel” and ineffective in delivering development.
As part of the visit, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for an extended port gate system at Balagarh, including an Inland Water Transport terminal and a road overbridge. He also launched an electric catamaran service in Kolkata and inaugurated a new rail line between Jayrambati and Maynapur.
Additionally, the Prime Minister flagged off three Amrit Bharat Express trains connecting Kolkata to Anand Vihar Terminal, Banaras, and Tambaram, aimed at improving long-distance rail connectivity.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi posted on X, stating, “Our Government is committed to adding momentum to West Bengal’s growth journey. In Singur today, important development works will be launched or their foundation stones laid.”
