PM Modi’s High-Profile Visit to West Bengal and Bihar: Military, Infrastructure, and Development Take Centre Stage
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kolkata and Purnia (Bihar) for a packed schedule that blended defence reforms with major infrastructure and livelihood announcements — signalling a coordinated push on security and regional development. 🛡️🏗️
Combined Commanders' Conference — “Year of Reforms” 🪖
PM Modi opened the 16th Combined Commanders' Conference–2025 in Kolkata at ~9:30 a.m., a three-day high-level forum (September 15–17) that gathers chiefs of the Army, Navy and Air Force along with defence policymakers and experts. The theme, “Year of Reforms – Transforming for the Future”, highlights military modernization, technology adoption and structural reforms to build a future-ready defence posture. 🔁💡
Purnia Airport — Interim Terminal Inauguration ✈️
From Kolkata, the Prime Minister travelled to Purnia (Bihar) to inaugurate the new Interim Terminal Building at the New Civil Enclave — a project aimed at boosting regional air connectivity, improving passenger handling and integrating northeastern Bihar more closely with national transport networks. This facility is expected to ease travel, boost local trade and unlock tourism opportunities. 🛩️📈
Major Investments — Rs 36,000 Crore Package 💰
During the Bihar leg, the PM launched infrastructure and development projects totalling about Rs 36,000 crore. Key highlights include:
- 3 × 800 MW Thermal Power Project, Pirpainti (Bhagalpur) — Rs 25,000 crore private investment using ultra-super critical, low-emission technology to strengthen Bihar’s energy security and industrial growth. ⚡🏭
- Kosi–Mechi Intra-State River Link (Phase 1) — Over Rs 2,680 crore for irrigation, flood management and canal capacity upgrades in flood-prone regions, aiming to protect livelihoods and boost agricultural output. 🌊🚜
National Makhana Board — Value Chain & Exports 🌾
Recognising Bihar’s dominance in makhana (fox nuts) production — nearly 90% of India’s output — the PM unveiled the National Makhana Board. The board will strengthen production, post-harvest management, processing, branding and global marketing, helping raise farmer incomes and build makhana as a premium export commodity. 🌍🥣
Rural Empowerment — DAY-NRLM Community Funds 🤝
As part of grassroots support, the Prime Minister distributed symbolic cheques for Rs 500 crore in Community Investment Funds to Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana — National Rural Livelihoods Mission. This aims to strengthen women’s collectives and promote self-reliance in rural communities. 👩🌾💪
Rail Projects & New Trains — Better Connectivity 🚆
The visit also saw foundation stones laid for several rail projects and the flagging off of new train services. These initiatives will enhance passenger mobility, improve freight logistics and connect remote areas with major urban and industrial hubs — reducing regional disparities and accelerating economic activity. 🧭
What This Visit Signals — Integrated Development + Security 📌
PM Modi’s day combined defence deliberation with large-scale regional investments — signalling a policy approach that links national security with infrastructure, energy, agriculture and grassroots empowerment. In short: modernization at the top, and targeted development on the ground. A two-pronged push for long-term resilience and growth. 🔗📊
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