Is Bengal's Development Essential for a Viksit Bharat?

Alipurduar, May 29 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday highlighted the significant role that West Bengal plays in India's ambition to become a 'Viksit Rashtra', asserting that the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' is unattainable without the advancement of this state.

During a large public gathering, he laid the foundation stone for City Gas Distribution (CGD) projects in the districts of Alipurduar and Cooch Behar.

Emphasizing Bengal's strategic and cultural importance, the Prime Minister stated, "The land of Alipurduar is more than just a border; it represents a confluence of cultures. One side is bordered by Bhutan, while the other connects to Assam. One embodies the heritage of Jalpaiguri, and the other showcases the pride of Cooch Behar. It is a privilege to be with you in this thriving region today."

He noted that the central government is spearheading innovation and development through numerous infrastructure projects across the state. "As India progresses toward becoming a Viksit Rashtra, Bengal's collaboration is both necessary and desired. With that aim, the Centre is accelerating innovation, infrastructure, and development in this region," he affirmed.

In launching the CGD projects, PM Modi remarked, "The advancement of Bengal serves as the foundation for India's future, and today we reinforce that foundation. We have launched City Gas Distribution projects in Alipurduar and Cooch Behar, which will deliver safe, secure, and affordable gas pipelines to over 2.5 lakh households, eliminating the need for cooking cylinders."

The Prime Minister referred to the CGD initiative as a pivotal step in enhancing energy accessibility, stating, "This city gas distribution project is not merely about pipelines; it exemplifies the government's commitment to delivering services directly to citizens. The progress that India has made in the energy sector in recent years is remarkable. Our nation is advancing toward a gas-based economy."

He outlined the government's accomplishments in expanding gas access, noting, "In 2014, India had fewer than 14 crore LPG connections, a number that has now increased to over 31 crore, fulfilling the dream of providing gas to every household. Our government has reinforced the gas distribution network across the nation, with LPG distribution centers more than doubling from fewer than 14,000 to over 25,000, ensuring availability even in remote villages."

The Prime Minister also acknowledged Bengal's contributions to India's intellectual and scientific heritage.

"West Bengal has been a pivotal center for knowledge and science in Indian culture. The aspiration for a Viksit Bharat cannot be achieved without Bengal's development. With this perspective, the central government has initiated development projects worth thousands of crores over the last decade," he added.

The CGD initiative aims to supply piped natural gas (PNG) to more than 2.5 lakh households and over 100 commercial and industrial units in the two districts. Additionally, around 19 compressed natural gas (CNG) stations will be established as part of the minimum work program targets, according to an official statement.

The CGD project will not only guarantee a reliable, environmentally-friendly, and cost-effective fuel supply but will also create local job opportunities, thus contributing to overall socio-economic development.