Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a two-day visit to Andhra Pradesh and Kerala to inaugurate several development projects, including significant infrastructure ventures in the ports, shipping, and waterways sector. The visit aimed to boost the region’s economy and enhance the nation’s maritime capabilities.
On Tuesday, PM Modi visited Sri Sathya Sai District in Andhra Pradesh, where he inaugurated the new campus of the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes and Narcotics (NACIN). He interacted with officer trainees from the Indian Revenue Service (Custom & Indirect Taxes) and the Royal Civil Service of Bhutan, promoting bilateral ties between the two countries.
The following day, PM Modi began his schedule in Kerala by offering prayers at the Guruvayur and Thriprayar Shree Ramaswami temples. Subsequently, he inaugurated three crucial projects in the ports and shipping sector, namely the New Dry Dock (NDD), the International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF), and the LPG Import Terminal of Indian Oil Corporation Limited. The combined value of these projects exceeded Rs 4,000 crore.
The New Dry Dock, constructed at a cost of about Rs 1,800 crore, showcased India’s engineering excellence. With its impressive dimensions of 310 meters in length, 75/60 meters in width, 13 meters in depth, and a draught of up to 9.5 meters, this stepped dry dock is one of the largest marine infrastructures in the region. It possesses heavy ground loading capacity, enabling the handling of future aircraft carriers weighing up to 70,000T and large commercial vessels. By reducing the nation’s reliance on foreign entities for urgent national requirements, this development contributes significantly to India’s self-reliance.
The International Ship Repair Facility, built at a cost of about Rs 970 crore, has its uniqueness. Equipped with a ship lift system capable of handling 6000T, a transfer system, six workstations, and a berth measuring approximately 1,400 meters, the facility can simultaneously accommodate seven vessels measuring 130 meters in length. This project will modernize and expand the existing ship repair capabilities of the Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), propelling Kochi towards becoming a global ship repair hub.
In addition, the Indian Oil’s LPG Import Terminal at Puthuvypeen, Kochi, constructed at a cost of about Rs 1,236 crore, stands as a testimony to state-of-the-art facilities. This terminal strengthens India’s quest for accessible and affordable energy for all.
The successful completion of these three projects significantly enhances India’s shipbuilding and repair capacities, fostering the growth of energy infrastructure and ancillary industries. Additionally, these developments are expected to boost EXIM trade, reduce logistics costs, drive economic growth, and create numerous domestic and international business opportunities.
Furthermore, PM Modi inaugurated the new state-of-the-art campus of NACIN at Palasamudram in Andhra Pradesh. Occupying 500 acres of land, this world-class training institute will impart knowledge and training to officials from the Indian Revenue Service (Custom and Indirect Taxes) and central allied services, as well as state governments and partner nations. The new campus prioritizes the utilization of modern technologies such as augmented and virtual reality, blockchain, and Artificial Intelligence for training and capacity-building purposes.
During his visit to Andhra Pradesh and Kerala, PM Modi’s engagement with various developmental projects underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure, boosting economic growth, and promoting self-reliance in key sectors. As the nation works towards achieving its vision of a prosperous and resilient India, these initiatives herald a promising future.
