India-UK trade pact to benefit youth, MSMEs, startups: PM Modi

TUTICORIN: The India-UK FTA will benefit Tamil Nadu (TN) youth, MSMEs, and startups, PM Narendra Modi said at Tuticorin airport, where he launched infrastructure projects worth over Rs 4,800 crore across southern TN on Saturday.

Among the major projects unveiled was the Rs 450 crore new airport terminal designed to handle 20 lakh passengers annually."Following FTA, 99% of Indian products sold in UK will be tax-free, boosting Indian manufacturing and creating new opportunities. The agreement will serve as a catalyst for industries rooted in TN's traditional strengths, ranging from handlooms to seafood exports," he said, addressing the gathering at the airport.Modi said TN is witnessing unprecedented development under NDA government at Centre. "Infrastructure and energy form the backbone of any state's development. Over past 11 years, the sustained focus on these sectors reflects the priority accorded to the state's progress," he said. The PM said Rs 3 lakh crore was devolved to TN central taxes over the past 11 years, nearly three times what was allotted under previous UPA government.

He inaugurated multiple projects involving road, rail, port, and power sectors. All the launches, including ribbon-cutting of the terminal, were done symbolically from the airport. He flagged off three railway infrastructure upgrades and electrification of the Madurai-Bodinayakkanur line. He also laid the foundation for a Rs 550 crore 765 kV transmission corridor project to evacuate power from Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant Units 3 and 4.Modi said the global perception of India has shifted significantly. "Today, the world sees its own growth in India's growth," he said. Recalling India's success in Operation Sindoor, he said, "You all recently witnessed the power of 'Make in India' during Operation Sindoor. Made-in-India weapons played a crucial role in reducing terror hideouts to rubble. Even today, arms manufactured in India continue to shake the sleep of those who shelter terrorism."He said NDA government prioritised the coastal economy, ensuring inclusive development. "TN's growth is a vital component of our vision for a Viksit Bharat," he said. Modi also invoked the memories of freedom fighters and poets, including V O Chidambaranar, Veerapandiya Kattabomman, Alagumuthu Kone, and Subramania Bharati. Modi arrived at Tuticorin airport 7.45pm and was received by governor R N Ravi, Union ministers L Murugan and Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, TN finance minister Thangam Thennarasu and industries minister TRB Rajaa. The event also witnessed brief political sloganeering between BJP and DMK cadres near the airport.