Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched development initiatives worth ₹46,000 crore in Katra, including key rail and health projects, marking a new chapter in Jammu & Kashmir’s progress
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for a series of infrastructure and healthcare projects valued at over ₹46,000 crore during a visit to Katra, Jammu & Kashmir. Speaking from the land of Veer Zorawar Singh and under the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi, Shri Modi described the occasion as a celebration of unity and resilience.
Highlighting the long-awaited completion of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail line, the Prime Minister underscored its importance in linking Kashmir to India’s wider railway network. He officially opened the iconic Chenab and Anji rail bridges and flagged off new Vande Bharat trains, marking major milestones in regional connectivity. The Chenab Bridge, now the world’s tallest railway arch, and the Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-supported railway bridge, were praised as engineering marvels and future tourist attractions.
The Prime Minister also announced the foundation of a new medical college in Jammu and expansion of healthcare infrastructure, including increasing the capacity of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence from 300 to 500 beds. With seven new medical colleges and two cancer institutes opened in the past five years, Shri Modi highlighted the government’s sustained investment in public health and education.
Emphasising economic impact, the Prime Minister noted the enhanced rail links would benefit local industries such as agriculture and handicrafts by enabling broader market access. He added that improved connectivity would support entrepreneurs, reduce transport costs for goods like apples and Pashmina shawls, and promote tourism.
Addressing the region’s troubled past, Shri Modi condemned recent terrorist attacks and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir. He lauded the courage and aspirations of the region’s youth and reiterated that India’s fight against terrorism will not deter its progress.
Source: Prime Minister Office
