Synopsis
Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced the government's commitment to building smart cities and eco-friendly highways, with a budget of Rs 11.21 lakh crore for infrastructure development, fostering jobs and enhancing mobility.Key Takeaways
- The government is investing in sustainable infrastructure.
- Rs 11.21 lakh crore allocated for the infrastructure sector.
- PM Gati Shakti initiative ensures integrated development.
- Build India Infra Awards recognize innovation.
- Pune serves as a hub for technological advancement.
New Delhi, Feb 25 (NationPress) The Government is developing a sustainable, resilient, and future-ready infrastructure ecosystem through smart cities and green highways, stated Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal.
Speaking at the second edition of the Build India Infra Awards 2025, the minister emphasized that the Union Budget for 2025-26 sets aside Rs 11.21 lakh crore for the infrastructure sector. This initiative aims not only to enhance roads and railways but also to generate jobs and businesses, allowing citizens to enjoy improved mobility and convenience.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the PM Gati Shakti initiative is driving integrated and multimodal infrastructure development, making transportation seamless, lowering logistical costs, and enhancing our economic capacity, noted Goyal.
He remarked that the Build India Infra Awards honor excellence, celebrate innovation, and motivate the next generation to aspire for greater achievements and better construction practices. These awards acknowledge the determination that is reshaping India's infrastructure and influencing the nation's future.
From highways that transform connectivity to railways that foster economic growth; world-class ports that enhance trade efficiency to modern airports that reinforce regional and global ties - every achievement signifies India's ambitious vision and dedication to progress, the Minister stated.
Goyal encouraged participants to keep collaborating, innovating, and accelerating efforts to ensure that India's infrastructure remains the backbone of its economic advancement.
In addition, during his address at the Pune International Business Summit 2025 via video, Goyal mentioned that the Centre is focused on cultivating a favorable investment environment, ensuring regulatory stability, and improving the ease of business operations in the country.
He pointed out that Prime Minister Modi's recent trips to the USA and France have opened avenues for increased investment and improved collaborations.
Highlighting that the two-day summit will explore emerging trade dynamics, establish strong partnerships, and showcase the pivotal role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in advancing Viksit Bharat, Goyal stated that representatives from over 20 countries will attend the event, reflecting global faith in India’s resilience.
He stressed that the Union Budget reaffirms its commitments with a Rs 10,000 crore Fund of Funds for Startups and a Deep Tech Fund to empower entrepreneurs. Moreover, significant investments are earmarked for R&D, with an initial estimate of Rs 20,000 crore for the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), along with a high-level committee, an investment-friendly index, and Jan Vishwas 2.0 to further enhance trust-based governance.
Recognizing Pune, often dubbed the ‘Detroit of the East,’ as a center of innovation, the minister emphasized that the city is setting industry benchmarks, making it a prime location for events that promote collaborations and propel India's growth narrative.
Goyal commended the Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture (MCCIA) for organizing the event, creating an inspiring convergence of industry leaders and visionaries. He noted that the 90-year-old association has played a transformative role in driving progress, empowering entrepreneurs, and fostering growth across Maharashtra and India.
