Pramesh S Jain
Infrastructure plays a vital role in the development journey of any nation;Better connectivity creates new avenues for progress, employment,and industry:PM.
When developmental opportunities reach every section of society, the fight against poverty is further strengthened;It is a direct result of this that in recent years, nearly 50 crore citizens have emerged from extreme poverty: PM.
Following Delhi-NCR and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Bengaluru has emerged as the third city in the nation where the metro network has achieved a century: PM.
The success of Namma Metro goes far beyond a single project;it is a powerful reflection of the country’s new vision for Ease of Living and Ease of Travel:PM.
Just a few days ago, Karnataka received the state’s first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper train;Today,it has been dedicated another Vande Bharat train that connects Karnataka to Goa: PM.
Today, India is advancing with the objective of achieving leadership in emerging technologies, from chip to ship, and from AI and data centres to quantum computing: PM.
Highlighting that reliable electricity generation is essential as India strives for global leadership across new technologies from chips to ships and from AI and data centers to quantum computing,the Prime Minister noted that the nation is expanding its nuclear power plants to achieve clean energy goals. 
“Today India’s renewable energy capacity has exceeded 300 gigawatts,”observed Modi.
Pointing out that Central schemes are transforming Indian citizens from electricity consumers into electricity producers,the Prime Minister noted that over 60 lakh households nationwide,including more than 40,000 families in Karnataka,have installed rooftop solar plants with Central assistance of around 80,000 rupees per family under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
While irrigation through over 8 lakh solar pumps is being arranged for Karnataka’s farmers under the PM KUSUM Yojana to cut power costs and generate new income and jobs.“Meaning, the Annadatas of Karnataka are now also becoming Urjadatas,”remarked PM Modi.
Observing that purposeful national execution, public participation, and proper utilization of taxpayer money under the post-2014 resolve of Sabka Saath,Sabka Vikas have expanded the middle class and created a new Aspirational Class seeking home appliances, two-wheelers,quality education, nutrition,healthcare,and tourism experiences,the Prime Minister pointed out that these rising aspirations are driving new industrial and job growth across automobiles, electronics,tourism,and services,making the Neo Middle Class a major engine of India’s economic growth.
“The interest of this Neo Middle Class, which is present in large numbers in Karnataka and in Bengaluru as well, is among the priorities of the Central Government,” affirmed Modi.
Stating that the Central Government is working continuously to boost middle-class savings and put more disposable income in their hands,the Prime Minister highlighted measures such as exempting annual income up to 12 lakh rupees from income tax, revising TDS rules to benefit senior citizens and rental earners, and lowering the cost of everyday goods through next-generation GST reforms.
“By abolishing GST on personal health and life insurance, we made insurance more affordable,”noted PM Modi.
Concluding his address by stating that today’s projects in Karnataka will further accelerate the nation’s developmental trajectory and extending his best wishes to the people,the Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering middle-class families.
“Our effort is that the savings of the middle class increase, their purchasing power becomes strong, and along with fulfilling the dreams of their family, they also become partners in the economic progress of the country,” affirmed Modi.
