Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who laid the foundation of projects worth Rs 3,800 crore in Mangaluru in Karnataka, has made it clear that the country’s economic security will be as crucial as its military security to usher in a new self-reliant India, which will be the land of opportunities.

“We’ve launched several industrial projects. These projects (in Mangaluru) will help in strengthening trade and commerce while increasing ease of doing business,” Modi said, addressing a large gathering.

Emphasising on a port-led development along with ‘Make in India’, he said that the newly laid projects will boost the incomes of the farmers and fishermen of the state while providing them opportunities in the international markets.

To make India a developed nation, focus must be on boosting manufacturing, exports and connectivity, Modi said.

He pointed out that coastal security and connectivity through development of ports as part of the PM Gati Shakti plan will be a game changer, which will not only enhance income levels but also promote exports. Development of coastal India and the ports will also help the tourism sector, the Prime Minister said, adding that the port capacity in the country has doubled in the last eight years.

“Today’s India is focused on the development on state of the art infrastructure, since this is the road to developed India,” Modi said. He said infrastructure development is key to create jobs and opportunities.

Also read: PM Modi imparts new identity to Indian Navy during commissioning of INS Vikrant

The PM Gati Shakti, launched last year, is a national master plan for multi-modal connectivity. This project is essentially a digital platform bringing several ministries including railways and roadways together for integrated planning and coordinated implementation of infrastructure connectivity projects.

In the morning before leaving for Mangaluru, Modi also commissioned the first indigenously developed aircraft carrier—INS Vikrant — at Kochi.

“INS Vikrant is not just a warship. This is a testament to the hard work, talent, influence and commitment of 21st century India,” he said while commissioning.

Delivering his Independence Day speech this year Modi said that India must become a developed nation in 25 years.

“I urge the country’s youth to dedicate the next 25 years of their lives for the nation’s development. We will work towards the development of the entire humanity,’ he said.