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January 2, 2024 | 16:30 IST
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"केंद्र सरकार लक्षद्वीपच्या विकासासाठी कटिबद्ध"
पंतप्रधान नरेंद्र मोदी यांनी लक्षद्वीपमधील अगत्ती विमानतळावर आगमन झाल्यानंतर लगेचच एका सार्वजनिक कार्यक्रमाला संबोधित केले. पंतप्रधान रात्री लक्षद्वीपमध्ये मुक्काम करणार आहेत.
यावेळी पंतप्रधानांनी लक्षद्वीपमधील अफाट संधी नमूद केल्या आणि स्वातंत्र्यानंतर लक्षद्वीपकडे झालेल्या दुर्लक्षाकडे लक्ष वेधले. नौवहन ही या भागाची जीवनवाहिनी असतानाही बंदरविषयक पायाभूत सुविधा कमकुवत असल्याचा उल्लेख त्यांनी केला. हे शिक्षण, आरोग्य आणि अगदी पेट्रोल आणि डिझेलला देखील लागू होते, असे ते म्हणाले. आता सरकारने विकासाचे काम चोखपणे हाती घेतले असून "ही सर्व आव्हाने आमचे सरकार दूर करत आहे," असा भरवसा त्यांनी दिला.
गेल्या 10 वर्षात अगत्तीमध्ये अनेक विकास प्रकल्प पूर्ण झाल्याची माहिती पंतप्रधान मोदींनी दिली आणि विशेषतः मच्छिमारांसाठी आधुनिक सुविधा निर्माण केल्याचा उल्लेख केला. आता अगत्ती येथे विमानतळ तसेच बर्फाचा प्रकल्प असल्याची वस्तुस्थिती त्यांनी मांडली. यामुळे सागरी खाद्य उत्पादन निर्यात आणि सागरी खाद्य उत्पादन प्रक्रियेशी संबंधित क्षेत्रासाठी नवीन संधी निर्माण होत असल्याचे पंतप्रधान म्हणाले. लक्षद्वीपमधून टूना (कुपा) मासळीच्या निर्यातीला सुरुवात झाल्याने लक्षद्वीपच्या मच्छिमारांचे उत्पन्न वाढण्याचा मार्गही मोकळा झाल्याचे त्यांनी नमूद केले.
आजच्या विकास प्रकल्पांचा संदर्भ देत पंतप्रधानांनी लक्षद्वीपच्या विद्युत आणि इतर उर्जेच्या गरजा पूर्ण करण्यासाठी सौर प्रकल्प आणि विमान इंधन डेपोच्या उद्घाटनाचा उल्लेख केला. पंतप्रधानांनी अगत्ती बेटावरील सर्व घरांना नळाद्वारे पाणीपुरवठ्याच्या परिपूर्तीबाबत माहिती दिली आणि गरिबांसाठी घरे, शौचालये, वीज आणि स्वयंपाकाचा गॅस सुनिश्चित करण्यासाठी सरकारच्या प्रयत्नांचा पुनरुच्चार केला. लक्षद्वीपच्या जनतेकरिता अधिक विकास प्रकल्पांसाठी कावरत्ती येथे उद्याच्या नियोजित कार्यक्रमाचा उल्लेख करून आपल्या भाषणाचा समारोप करताना मोदी म्हणाले की “केंद्र सरकार अगत्तीसह संपूर्ण लक्षद्वीपच्या विकासासाठी पूर्ण वचनबद्धतेने काम करत आहे.”
पार्श्वभूमी
लक्षद्वीपच्या दौऱ्यात, पंतप्रधान 1150 कोटी रुपयांपेक्षा जास्त किमतीच्या विकास प्रकल्पांचे उद्घाटन, लोकार्पण आणि पायाभरणी करणार आहेत.
एका परिवर्तन घडवून आणणाऱ्या कार्याने, पंतप्रधान नरेंद्र मोदी यांनी कोची-लक्षद्वीप द्वीपसमूह ‘सबमरीन ऑप्टिकल फायबर कनेक्शन’(KLI - SOFC) प्रकल्प सुरू करून लक्षद्वीप बेटावरील अतिशय कमी, मंद असणाऱ्या इंटरनेटच्या गतीचे जे आव्हान आहे, त्यावर मात करण्याचा संकल्प केला होता आणि ऑगस्ट 2020 मध्ये लाल किल्ल्यावरून स्वातंत्र्यदिनाच्या भाषणात त्यासंदर्भात घोषणा केली होती. हा प्रकल्प आता पूर्ण झाला असून, त्याचे उद्घाटन पंतप्रधानांच्या हस्ते होणार आहे. यामुळे इंटरनेट स्पीड 100 पटींनी वाढेल (1.7 जीबीपीएस ते 200 जीबीपीएस). स्वातंत्र्यानंतर प्रथमच लक्षद्वीप सबमरीन ऑप्टिक फायबर केबलद्वारे जोडले जाणार आहे. समर्पित पाणबुडी ओएफसी लक्षद्वीप बेटांमधील दळणवळण पायाभूत सुविधांमध्ये बदल घडवून आणेल, जलद आणि अधिक विश्वासार्ह इंटरनेट सेवा, टेलिमेडिसिन, ई-गव्हर्नन्स, शैक्षणिक उपक्रम, डिजिटल बँकिंग, डिजिटल चलन वापर, डिजिटल साक्षरता इत्यादी विविध सेवा सक्षम करेल.
पंतप्रधान कदमत येथे ‘लो टेम्परेचर थर्मल डिसॅलिनेशन (एलटीटीडी) प्रकल्प राष्ट्राला समर्पित करतील. या प्रकल्पामध्ये दररोज 1.5 लाख लिटर शुद्ध पिण्याच्या पाण्याची निर्मिती करण्यात येणार आहे. पंतप्रधान अगत्ती आणि मिनिकॉय बेटांवरील सर्व घरांसाठी तयार केलेली नळाव्दारे पेयजल योजना (एफएचटीसी ) राष्ट्राला समर्पित करतील. लक्षद्वीप बेटांवर पिण्यायोग्य पाण्याची उपलब्धता हे नेहमीच आव्हान होते, कारण प्रवाळयुक्त बेट असल्याने भूजलाची उपलब्धता अत्यंत मर्यादित आहे. या पेयजल प्रकल्पांमुळे बेटांची पर्यटन क्षमता बळकट होण्यास मदत होईल, आणि त्यामुळे स्थानिक नागरिकांसाठी रोजगाराच्या संधी वाढतील.
याशिवाय इतरही प्रकल्प राष्ट्राला समर्पित करण्यात येणार आहेत. त्यामध्‍ये कावरत्ती येथील सौर ऊर्जा प्रकल्पाचा समावेश आहे. हा लक्षद्वीपमधला पहिला बॅटरीवर चालणारा सौर ऊर्जा प्रकल्प आहे. या सौर प्रकल्पामुळे डिझेल-आधारित वीज निर्मिती प्रकल्पावरील अवलंबित्व कमी होणार आहे. तसेच कावरत्ती येथील इंडिया रिझर्व्ह बटालियन (IRBn) कॉम्प्लेक्समध्ये नवीन प्रशासकीय ब्लॉक आणि 80 पुरुष बॅरेकवरील अवलंबित्व कमी करण्यात मदत होणार आहे.
पंतप्रधान काल्पेनी येथील प्राथमिक आरोग्य सेवा सुविधेच्या नूतनीकरण प्रकल्पाची पायाभरणी करणार आहेत. आणि आंद्रोट, चेतलात, कदमत, अगत्ती आणि मिनिकॉय या पाच बेटांवर पाच आदर्श अंगणवाडी केंद्रे (नंद घर) बांधण्यासाठी पायाभरणी करणार आहेत.
PM Modi's Global Diplomacy: Strengthening India's Partnerships Across Continents
December 31, 2024
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In recent years, PM Modi has significantly strengthened India's global partnerships through a series of impactful bilateral visits across continents. These visits have been crucial in advancing India’s foreign policy, enhancing strategic cooperation, and promoting economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties with key nations worldwide. From the Gulf to Europe, Southeast Asia, and Africa, PM Modi’s diplomatic outreach is a symbol to India’s growing global presence under his leadership.
United Arab Emirates: Strengthening Ties with the Gulf
PM Modi’s visit to the UAE marked his 7th trip in nine years, reflecting the deepening relationship between India and the Gulf nation. During the visit, PM Modi addressed the Indian diaspora at the AHLAN MODI event, a vibrant celebration of the strong cultural and historical ties between the two nations.
PM Modi at the AHLAN MODI Event in the UAE
The visit also marked a milestone with the inauguration of the first Hindu temple in the UAE — the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Abu Dhabi. This temple is a symbol of India’s cultural diplomacy and the growing acceptance of India’s diversity in the Gulf region. The visit reinforced the UAE’s role as a key partner in India’s energy and economic growth, as well as the growing importance of the Indian expatriate community.
Qatar: Renewed Bilateral Cooperation
PM Modi’s visit to Qatar infused “new vigour” into the already robust bilateral ties between India and the Gulf nation. This visit was particularly significant, as Qatar released eight former Indian Navy personnel who had been detained on charges of espionage, a gesture that reflected Qatar's commitment to strengthening ties with India. The visit helped bolster economic cooperation, particularly in sectors like energy, trade, and infrastructure.
PM Modi in Qatar with his counterparts
Additionally, Qatar's investment in India's growing economy was emphasized, opening avenues for enhanced collaboration in the future.
Bhutan: Strengthening Regional Partnerships
A significant aspect of PM Modi’s visit to Bhutan was the inauguration of a state-of-the-art hospital in Thimphu, constructed with Indian assistance.
PM Modi at the inauguration of a state-of-the-art hospital in Thimphu
This move symbolized India’s continued support for Bhutan’s development, enhancing bilateral ties and ensuring India’s strategic influence in the region. Bhutan is an important partner in India's “Neighbourhood First” policy, and this visit further cemented the shared values of peace, stability, and progress between the two nations.
Austria: A Historic Milestone
PM Modi’s visit to Austria in 2024 was groundbreaking, as it marked the first trip by an Indian PM to the country in 41 years. This visit coincided with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Austria. The visit focused on strengthening trade, technology, and cultural ties. Austria’s expertise in renewable energy, engineering, and research was highlighted as a potential area for collaboration.
PM Modi interacted with CEOs in Austria
The visit underscored India’s growing importance in European diplomatic circles and Austria’s role as a partner in India’s development trajectory.
Russia: Reaffirming Strategic Partnerships
In his visit to Russia for the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit, PM Modi and President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed the longstanding strategic partnership between the two nations.
PM Modi in Russia for the 16th BRICS Summit
The summit emphasized mutual cooperation in defence, energy, and technology. Russia’s support for India’s defence requirements, including the supply of critical military equipment, continued to be a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship. Moreover, both nations agreed to further enhance energy cooperation, particularly in the oil and natural gas sectors, which are crucial for India’s energy security.
Poland: Strengthening Diplomatic Ties
PM Modi’s visit to Poland in 2024 was historic, marking the first trip by an Indian PM in 45 years. The visit coincided with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. During the visit, both India and Poland elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership.
PM Modi Honoured the Fallen Heroes in Poland
Discussions centred around defence cooperation, scientific collaboration, and greater engagement in trade and investment. Poland’s support for India’s entry into global institutions such as the UN Security Council was also a significant aspect of the visit.
Ukraine: Diplomatic Engagement Amid Conflict
PM Modi’s visit to Ukraine was particularly noteworthy, coming at a time when military actions had been suspended by both warring sides. The visit demonstrated India’s commitment to global peace and its willingness to offer humanitarian and technological assistance for post-war reconstruction.
PM Modi delivered humanitarian aid to Ukrainian President
The PM assured Ukraine of India’s support in rebuilding its war-torn infrastructure, reflecting India’s role as a peace-broker in global conflicts. The visit also highlighted India’s position on non-interference and peaceful resolution of disputes.
Brunei: A Milestone in India’s 'Act East' Policy
PM Modi’s visit to Brunei marked the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Southeast Asian nation. The visit coincided with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Brunei. Brunei is a key partner in India’s “Act East” policy, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
PM Modi’s visit to Brunei was the first bilateral visit by an Indian PM
The visit focused on enhancing cooperation in trade, energy, and maritime security. Brunei’s strategic location and its importance in regional security made this visit a crucial step in strengthening India’s relationships with Southeast Asian nations.
Singapore: Strengthening Strategic Partnership
PM Modi’s visit to Singapore emphasized the strengthening of India’s strategic partnership with the island nation, particularly in advanced manufacturing, digitalization, and sustainable development. The visit facilitated the growth of synergies between the semiconductor ecosystems of India and Singapore. Both nations explored opportunities to collaborate in research, innovation, and green technologies, which are essential for India’s future economic growth.
PM Modi at the Roundtable with Business Leaders in Singapore
Singapore’s role as a financial hub and a gateway to Southeast Asia made this visit critical for India’s long-term economic ambitions.
Guyana: Reaching Out to the Indian Diaspora
PM Modi’s visit to Guyana was historic as it marked the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in over 50 years. The visit was significant for its emphasis on strengthening ties with the Indian diaspora, which has had a deep historical connection with Guyana for over 185 years. During the visit, PM Modi held discussions on giving strategic direction to the India-Guyana relationship, focusing on trade, technology, and infrastructure development.
PM Modi at the 2nd Caricom- India Summit in Guyana
The Prime Minister paid homage to the contributions of the Indian diaspora, underscoring their role in bridging cultural and economic ties between India and Guyana.
Nigeria: Strengthening African Partnerships
PM Modi’s visit to Nigeria in November 2024 was the first by an Indian PM to the West African nation in decades. The visit marked a significant step in strengthening India’s partnership with Nigeria, which is one of the most populous and influential countries in Africa. The visit focused on strategic cooperation, particularly in energy, trade, and security. India and Nigeria agreed to work closely on areas like healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. The visit also underscored the importance of democratic values and pluralism, shared by both nations.
PM Modi interacted with the Indian Diaspora in Nigeria
Kuwait: Enhancing Economic and Cultural Cooperation
PM Modi’s visit to Kuwait was especially significant as it was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Gulf nation in 43 years. The visit focused on enhancing economic relations and cultural exchanges. Kuwait, with its strategic location in the Gulf, plays a pivotal role in India’s energy security and economic interests.
PM Modi at the Hala Modi Event in Kuwait
The visit aimed at bolstering collaboration in trade, energy, and investment, reinforcing the historical ties between the two nations. It was also an opportunity to connect with the large Indian diaspora in Kuwait, a key contributor to both the Gulf nation’s economy and the bilateral relationship.
A Global Leader in Diplomacy and Strategic Partnerships
PM Modi’s series of impactful bilateral visits across continents has significantly elevated India’s diplomatic standing and global influence. His efforts have not only strengthened traditional alliances but also fostered new strategic partnerships, positioning India as a key player in global affairs. Through his leadership, India has championed multilateral cooperation, sustainable development, and peaceful conflict resolution, ensuring its active participation in shaping the future of the world. These diplomatic engagements reflect India’s growing prominence on the global stage, laying the foundation for a prosperous and interconnected future.
