Projects unveiled in Andamans would help develop several sectors: Modi

Port Blair, Dec 30 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hailed the people of Car Nicobar for their spirit and hard work in rebuilding the islands after the 2004 tsunami and said that projects unveiled in the island city would go a long way in developing several sectors.

Modi, who is on two-day visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, also laid the foundation stone for shore protection work near Mus Jetty, and extension of Campbell Bay Jetty.

Speaking after inaugurating an industrial training institute at Arong, Modi remarked: "Today in Car Nicobar, we inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several development works. These projects, relating to education, healthcare, skill development, transportation, energy and sports, will go a long way in developing the sectors."

He also interacted with tribal chiefs and eminent sportspersons from the islands and said that "the upcoming ITI will greatly benefit youngsters".

"The government is building sporting facilities, which will further popularize sports in the union territory and boost fitness levels," Modi said, adding that more sports facilities would be added in future.

Reaffirming his government's determination to not leave anyone behind, or any part of the country, in the march towards development, Modi said the aim is to reduce distances, and develop a sense of closeness in hearts.

He said the work for the sea wall, once completed, will help protect the island of Car Nicobar.

The Prime Minister said that the government is working for improving the standard of living of the people of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He also spoke of the expansion of healthcare facilities on the islands.

He said that the effort is to undertake development work while preserving the environment and local culture.

In the agricultural sector, the Prime Minister spoke of the increase in support price of copra.

He said the government is working towards empowering those engaged in the fisheries sector as well.

Modi said, "A sum of Rs. 7,000 crore has recently been approved for making the fisheries sector in the country more profitable. The areas of the country that are near the sea, can become centres of our blue revolution."

He also said seaweed farming is being encouraged, and fishermen are getting financial assistance for procuring modern boats.

The Prime Minister said, "India is making concerted efforts to harness solar energy".

He said, "Areas contiguous to the sea have tremendous potential for renewable energy generation", and mentioned efforts being made in Car Nicobar, in this direction.

The Prime Minister said this entire region of the Nicobar Islands, and the nearby Malacca Strait, is important from the point of view of both resources and security.

He said suitable transportation infrastructure is being developed, keeping this in mind.