PM Modi says Gujarat’s Bhavnagar port will be crucial in building self reliant India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today laid the foundation of the Rs 5200 crore project at Bhavnagar in Gujarat. This includes the world’s first CNG terminal. Among several projects, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Regional Science Centre, spread over 20 acres and built at a cost of around Rs 100 crore.

Addressing a large gathering at Bhavnagar, Modi said that the port will play a crucial role in building a self-reliant India and create new employment opportunities for many in the state.

“There will be an expansion of business related to storage, transportation and logistics”, Modi said.

Modi underlined the importance of the coastal ecosystem in boosting overall economic activities in the country. Fishing harbours have been constructed and fish processing was promoted for the benefit of the fishermen’s community, he said. Mangrove forests have also been developed in the region.

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“Today, Gujarat’s coastline is emerging as synonymous with renewable energy and the hydrogen ecosystem”, he said. “We have tried to make Saurashtra a centre of energy. Today, whatever be the energy needs of the country, this region is becoming an important hub of that,” Modi added.

India, with a coastline of about 7.5 thousand km has carved out a blueprint on blue economy. A holistic ocean policy is key for India’s economy to touch the $5 trillion mark, experts said, adding that issues relating to the environment and maritime security need to be weaved into the blueprint.