On May 26, 2025, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated, laid foundation stones, and dedicated development projects worth over ₹24,000 crore in Dahod, Gujarat. This major infrastructure push was accompanied by a strong message of national unity, tribal development, and the ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision, aligning with the broader Make in India and infrastructure-led growth strategy of the central government.
A Day of Symbolic Significance
Addressing the public gathering, Prime Minister Modi noted the symbolic importance of May 26, the day he first took oath as Prime Minister in 2014. He expressed gratitude to the people of Gujarat for their continuous support and emphasized how it fuels his commitment to national service. Reflecting on India’s journey over the last 11 years, he stated that the country has moved from an era of pessimism to one of purpose and progress.
Push for Self-Reliance and Manufacturing Excellence
Highlighting India’s rise in the global manufacturing landscape, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of domestic production. He reiterated that everything required for the country’s development should be produced within India. From smartphones and automobiles to defense equipment and medicines, India is steadily increasing its export capabilities. He proudly flagged off the first locomotive built at the Dahod Electric Locomotive Factory, calling it a significant moment of pride for Gujarat and the nation. The locomotive factory, which he laid the foundation for three years ago, has now achieved the milestone of rolling out a 9,000-horsepower engine.
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Railway Modernization and Export Growth
Shri Modi elaborated on India’s railway transformation over the past decade. With nearly 70 Vande Bharat Express trains operational, a new route between Ahmedabad and Veraval was also announced. He pointed out that India is now a global exporter of railway equipment, supplying metro coaches to Australia, train coaches to Saudi Arabia, France, and England, and rail components to Germany, Italy, Spain, and Mexico. He emphasized that this shift is a testament to India’s growing technological capabilities and manufacturing prowess.
Gujarat’s Electrified Rail Network and New Connectivity
The Prime Minister declared that Gujarat has achieved 100% electrification of its railway network, a milestone in sustainable infrastructure. He also inaugurated the Dahod–Valsad Express, a route that connects and benefits the tribal belt. Several narrow-gauge tracks have been upgraded to accommodate express trains, improving mobility and logistics in the region.
Employment and Industrial Growth Through Rail Projects
The Dahod rail factory is expected to play a transformative role in local employment generation. As it ramps up production of high-horsepower locomotives, the factory will foster ancillary industries, boosting jobs across engineering units and small-scale suppliers. Prime Minister Modi stressed that this ripple effect will also benefit farmers, traders, livestock owners, and service providers, strengthening the local economy.
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Establishing a High-Tech Engineering Corridor
Shri Modi highlighted that Dahod, Vadodara, Kalol, Godhra, and Halol together form a burgeoning high-tech manufacturing and engineering corridor in Gujarat. From aircraft assembly in Vadodara to Gati Shakti University and railcar manufacturing in Savli, this corridor is poised to become a hub for next-generation industrial development. The presence of semiconductor plants, IT parks, and MSMEs further boosts the region’s industrial output and youth employment potential.
Empowering Tribal Communities
The Prime Minister underlined the government’s efforts to uplift tribal regions, stating that unprecedented steps have been taken over the past 11 years to enhance education and infrastructure. Dahod, part of the tribal belt, now boasts Eklavya Model Schools, medical colleges, ITIs, and even tribal universities, bridging long-standing developmental gaps. These institutions ensure better academic access and vocational training for tribal youth, building pathways to prosperity.
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Operation Sindoor and National Sentiment
While addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister briefly mentioned Operation Sindoor, referring to it not just as a military action but as an embodiment of national values and Indian sentiment. He stated that India’s development model goes hand-in-hand with the protection of its core ideals, sovereignty, and inclusive growth.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Dahod, Gujarat, and the dedication of development projects worth ₹24,000 crore signal a continued focus on infrastructure-led growth, regional empowerment, and tribal inclusion. With modern rail connectivity, manufacturing hubs, and self-reliance at the core, Gujarat is emerging as a model for India’s vision of Viksit Bharat. As India strides forward with new confidence, initiatives like these will shape the country’s trajectory for years to come.