Haryana’s Leap Toward Progress: PM Narendra Modi Lays Foundation Stones for Transformative Projects in Hisar and Yamuna Nagar

By Parul Sihag

Hisar/Yamuna Nagar, April 14, 2025: In a historic stride toward realizing the vision of a Viksit Bharat, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stones for two monumental projects in Haryana on Monday, marking a transformative moment for the state’s development trajectory. The new terminal building at Maharaja Agrasen Airport in Hisar, valued at over Rs. 410 crore, and the 800 MW Unit-3 of the Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram Thermal Power Plant in Yamuna Nagar, worth approximately Rs. 8,470 crore, were unveiled with grandeur, symbolizing Haryana’s ascent as a hub of connectivity, energy, and opportunity. Coinciding with the 135th birth anniversary of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, the architect of India’s Constitution, these initiatives reflect the Union and Haryana governments’ unwavering commitment to inclusive growth, social justice, and prosperity. Prime Minister Modi also showered praise on Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh Saini, hailing his visionary leadership as a driving force behind Haryana’s remarkable progress.

Hisar Airport: A Beacon of Connectivity and Aspiration

The foundation stone-laying ceremony for the new terminal building at Maharaja Agrasen Airport in Hisar was a moment of pride for Haryana, as it promises to redefine the state’s aviation landscape. With an investment exceeding Rs. 410 crore, the project will feature a state-of-the-art passenger terminal, a dedicated cargo terminal, and an advanced Air Traffic Control (ATC) building. These facilities are designed to provide seamless travel experiences, boost trade, and position Hisar as a key aviation hub in northern India.

Addressing a vibrant gathering in Hisar, Prime Minister Modi described the project as a “gateway to Haryana’s aspirations,” emphasizing its potential to empower the state’s youth and connect its people to new opportunities. “This terminal is not just a building; it is a symbol of Haryana’s soaring ambitions, a testament to our commitment to making dreams take flight,” he said, his words resonating with the enthusiastic crowd.

The Prime Minister highlighted the symbolic significance of the day, noting that April 14, 2025, marked the birth anniversary of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, whose vision of equality and empowerment continues to guide the nation. He dedicated the Hisar airport project to Babasaheb’s ideals, emphasizing that connectivity is a cornerstone of social justice, enabling marginalized communities to access opportunities previously beyond their reach. “Every decision, every policy of our government is inspired by Babasaheb’s dream of uplifting the poor, the oppressed, and the underprivileged,” Shri Modi affirmed.

A key highlight of the event was the launch of direct flight services from Hisar to Ayodhya Dham, a move that holds profound cultural and spiritual significance. “Today, the sacred land of Lord Krishna in Haryana is directly connected to the city of Lord Ram in Ayodhya,” the Prime Minister said, evoking cheers from the audience. Scheduled flights from Hisar to Ayodhya will operate twice weekly, while three weekly flights will connect Hisar to Jammu, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Chandigarh. These routes, Shri Modi noted, will not only enhance travel convenience but also foster economic and cultural exchanges across regions.

Reflecting on his vision to democratize air travel, the Prime Minister reiterated his iconic promise: “Even those wearing slippers will fly in airplanes.” He celebrated the remarkable progress in India’s aviation sector over the past decade, pointing out that the number of airports has surged from 74 in 2014 to over 150 today. The UDAN scheme, he added, has connected nearly 90 aerodromes with over 600 operational routes, making air travel affordable for millions. “In Hisar, we are not just building an airport; we are creating opportunities for pilots, air hostesses, maintenance professionals, and countless others,” he said, underscoring the project’s potential to generate employment and inspire Haryana’s youth.

The Prime Minister reserved special praise for Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, lauding his transformative governance and commitment to transparency. “Under CM Saini’s leadership, Haryana has eradicated the corrupt practices that once plagued government job recruitments. Thousands of deserving youth have received appointment letters based solely on merit, without bribes or recommendations,” Shri Modi said. He commended the state government’s roadmap for creating thousands of new jobs in the coming years, describing it as a model of good governance that aligns with the aspirations of a developed India.

Yamuna Nagar: Powering Haryana’s Industrial and Agricultural Growth

Later in the day, Prime Minister Modi traveled to Yamuna Nagar, where he laid the foundation stone for the 800 MW Unit-3 of the Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram Thermal Power Plant, a Rs. 8,470 crore project spread across 233 acres. This modern facility is poised to bolster Haryana’s energy self-sufficiency, ensuring uninterrupted power supply to industries, households, and farmers. The event also saw the inauguration of the 14.4 km Rewari Bypass project, worth Rs. 1,070 crore, under the Bharatmala Pariyojana, and the foundation stone-laying for a Compressed Biogas Plant in Mukarabpur, reinforcing the state’s commitment to sustainable development.

Addressing a large gathering in Yamuna Nagar, Shri Modi paid homage to the region’s cultural and spiritual heritage, describing it as the sacred land of Maa Saraswati, the abode of Kapalmochan Sahib, and the site of Rishi Ved Vyas. He highlighted Yamuna Nagar’s significance as an industrial powerhouse, contributing to India’s economy through its plywood, brass, steel, and petrochemical equipment sectors. “The new thermal power unit will fuel Yamuna Nagar’s industrial growth, supporting our ‘Mission Manufacturing’ to create jobs and opportunities for the youth,” he said.

The Prime Minister emphasized the critical role of electricity in nation-building, noting that Haryana’s power generation capacity has grown to 16,000 MW, with plans to reach 24,000 MW in the coming years. “Before 2014, power shortages crippled factories, railways, and irrigation systems. Today, India not only meets its energy needs but also exports power to neighboring countries,” he said, crediting the government’s multifaceted approach, including initiatives like One Nation-One Grid, new coal power plants, and solar energy projects.

A key focus of Shri Modi’s address was the PM Suryagarh Muft Bijli Yojana, which empowers households to install solar panels, eliminate electricity bills, and earn income by selling surplus power. “Over 1.25 crore people across India, including lakhs from Haryana, have registered for this scheme, creating a vibrant ecosystem of skills and opportunities,” he said. The Compressed Biogas Plant in Mukarabpur, with an annual production capacity of 2,600 metric tonnes, was celebrated as a step toward effective organic waste management and clean energy production. “This plant will save Rs. 3 crore annually for the municipal corporation while contributing to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan,” the Prime Minister noted.

Shri Modi also highlighted the GOBARDhan Yojana, which enables farmers to generate income by producing biogas from cow dung and agricultural waste. The foundation stone for a new GOBARDhan plant in Yamuna Nagar, he said, aligns with the budget announcement of 500 such plants nationwide, fostering sustainability and rural prosperity. “Haryana’s farmers are the backbone of our nation, and our government stands as their steadfast partner,” he affirmed, citing the state’s procurement of 24 crops at MSP, Rs. 9,000 crore disbursed under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, and Rs. 6,500 crore through the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi.

The Prime Minister lauded Chief Minister Saini’s farmer-friendly policies, particularly the abolition of the colonial-era water tax and the waiver of Rs.130 crore in outstanding dues. “CM Saini’s government has brought relief and dignity to Haryana’s farmers, ensuring they thrive in an ecosystem of support and opportunity,” he said. He also praised the state’s industrial initiatives, noting that revised MSME definitions, special credit cards, and increased credit guarantee coverage have empowered small industries to grow without fear of losing government support.

A Vision Rooted in Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Legacy

At both events, Prime Minister Modi connected the projects to the vision of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, emphasizing that industrialization and connectivity are pathways to social justice. “Babasaheb believed that industries would provide employment opportunities for Dalits, improving their standard of living. Today, we are honoring his legacy by fostering manufacturing and empowering marginalized communities,” he said in Yamuna Nagar. He highlighted Babasaheb’s collaboration with Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee, India’s first Industry Minister, to drive industrialization, and drew parallels with the government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives.

In Hisar, Shri Modi reiterated that every policy of the government is dedicated to Babasaheb’s dream of uplifting the underprivileged. “The Hisar airport will create jobs and opportunities for SC, ST, and OBC youth, fulfilling Babasaheb’s vision of equality and empowerment,” he said. He also highlighted the development of “Panchteerth”—key sites associated with Babasaheb, including his birthplace in Mhow and Diksha Bhoomi in Nagpur—as a tribute to his enduring legacy.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini: A Leader of Transformation

Prime Minister Modi’s praise for Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini was a recurring theme at both ceremonies, underscoring the synergy between the Union and state governments. In Hisar, he commended Saini’s efforts in eradicating corruption in government job recruitments, ensuring that thousands of youth receive opportunities based on merit. “Under CM Saini, Haryana has set a benchmark for transparency, with thousands of appointment letters issued to deserving candidates without any unfair practices,” Shri Modi said.

In Yamuna Nagar, the Prime Minister lauded Saini’s farmer-centric and industry-friendly policies, describing him as a leader who embodies the spirit of service. “CM Saini’s government has empowered farmers, supported MSMEs, and created a roadmap for Haryana’s industrial growth. His dedication to good governance is an inspiration,” he said, earning resounding applause from the audience. The Prime Minister highlighted the state’s remarkable track record in providing jobs and infrastructure, crediting Saini’s leadership for Haryana’s rapid progress.

Haryana’s Role in Viksit Bharat

The Prime Minister painted a vivid picture of Haryana’s cultural and historical significance, paying homage to Guru Jambheshwar, Maharaja Agrasen, and Agroha Dham in Hisar, and acknowledging Yamuna Nagar as the land of Maa Saraswati, Kapalmochan Sahib, and Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s weaponry. “Haryana is a confluence of culture, devotion, and dedication, and its people are the driving force behind India’s development,” he said.

The Rewari Bypass, inaugurated in Yamuna Nagar, was celebrated for reducing travel time between Delhi and Narnaul by an hour, easing congestion, and boosting economic activity. Shri Modi emphasized that the project, part of the Bharatmala Pariyojana, reflects the government’s commitment to seamless connectivity. “Haryana’s progress is integral to Viksit Bharat, and projects like these are stepping stones to a prosperous future,” he said.

A Bright Future Ahead

The foundation stone ceremonies in Hisar and Yamuna Nagar mark a new chapter in Haryana’s journey toward becoming a hub of connectivity, energy, and opportunity. The Maharaja Agrasen Airport will elevate Haryana’s global presence, connecting its people to new horizons, while the Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram Thermal Power Plant will power its industries and farms, ensuring sustainable growth. The Compressed Biogas Plant and Rewari Bypass further underscore the state’s commitment to innovation and progress.

As Prime Minister Modi concluded his addresses, he extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of Haryana, urging them to embrace these milestones as catalysts for transformation. “With the blessings of Babasaheb Ambedkar and the leadership of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Haryana is poised to soar to new heights, contributing to a developed India,” he said. The events, attended by dignitaries including Union Ministers and state leaders, were a testament to the collective resolve to build a stronger, more prosperous Haryana.

Under the dynamic partnership of the Union and state governments, Haryana is not just keeping pace with progress but setting a shining example for the nation. The Hisar airport and Yamuna Nagar power plant are more than infrastructure projects—they are symbols of hope, opportunity, and the unwavering spirit of Haryana’s people.