Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the country's most modern integrated refinery-cum-petrochemical complex at Pachpadra in Rajasthan's Balotra district, asserting that BJP-led governments believe in completing projects rather than merely announcing them.
After inaugurating the new terminal building at Jodhpur Airport earlier in the day, the Prime Minister arrived at the Pachpadra refinery around 12 noon. He inspected the refinery's state-of-the-art control room, interacted with engineers and technical experts, and gathered detailed information about its operations before dedicating the project to the nation.
During the programme, the Prime Minister also virtually laid the foundation stone for Jaipur Metro Phase 2. Addressing a large public gathering, PM Modi said the massive turnout despite the scorching heat reflected people's faith in the BJP government.
"The gathering of such a large number of people in this scorching heat demonstrates the immense faith you have in the efforts of the BJP government. I am indebted to the soil of Rajasthan for this support," he said. Highlighting the significance of the refinery project, the Prime Minister said the inauguration marked another major step towards building a developed and self-reliant India.
"Today, from this very land of Rajasthan, India has taken a giant leap towards becoming a developed and self-reliant nation. This day bears witness to the fact that BJP governments do not merely lay foundation stones and leave projects unfinished; we work day and night to bring them to completion," PM Modi said.
Referring to the fire accident that had delayed the refinery's inauguration earlier this year, the Prime Minister praised the engineers and workers for restoring operations in record time. "Completing the work so rapidly following the accident at the refinery two months ago is a testament to hard work.
Everyone has shown that no matter how daunting the challenge, New India neither wavers from its resolve nor slows its pace," he said. The Prime Minister also spoke about India's energy security, noting that the country successfully navigated global challenges arising from geopolitical tensions.
"Conflicts in West Asia had triggered the biggest energy crisis of the 21st century. Yet, India's steadfast resolve ensured that even this massive crisis was mitigated. During this period, India utilised its resources effectively," PM Modi said.
The refinery, developed at Pachpadra with an investment of over Rs 79,000 crore, is expected to significantly strengthen India's energy infrastructure while generating large-scale industrial and employment opportunities in western Rajasthan.