How Modi govt's policies brought Jharkhand's all-round transformation

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has significantly bolstered Jharkhand's infrastructure with the launch of six Vande Bharat Express trains, enhancing connectivity not only within Jharkhand but also with key cities across India. 

This initiative, part of a broader strategy to revolutionise India's transportation framework, was inaugurated virtually from Tatanagar, marking a pivotal expansion of India's semi-high-speed rail network.

The new Vande Bharat routes:

Tatanagar-Patna: This route, covering 340 km in approximately seven hours, operates six days a week, significantly reducing travel time and fostering economic relations between these two cities.

Bhagalpur - Dumka - Howrah: Enhances connectivity within Jharkhand and towards Kolkata, supporting local industries like jute production and coal mining.

Brahmapur - Tatanagar: Facilitates trade and tourism between Jharkhand and Odisha.

Gaya - Howrah: Connects religious and industrial hubs, boosting both pilgrimage and industrial activity.

Deoghar – Varanasi: Aimed at promoting religious tourism by connecting two major pilgrimage sites, encouraging cultural exchange and economic growth through tourism.

Rourkela - Howrah: Strengthens industrial corridors, particularly beneficial for the steel industry.

Developmental impact:

Economic boost: The introduction of these trains supports local industries and reduces transportation costs, aligning with the 'Make in India' initiative by enhancing industrial logistics.

Tourism and cultural exchange: Routes like Deoghar-Varanasi are expected to revitalize local economies through increased tourism, potentially reviving local arts and traditions.

Political relevance: Amidst ongoing political dynamics, this project highlights BJP's developmental agenda, contrasting with the perceived shortcomings of the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) government.

Additional infrastructure enhancements in Jharkhand:

Railway projects: Under PM Modi's leadership, Jharkhand has seen substantial railway development, including the Vande Bharat trains on routes like Ranchi-Patna and Ranchi-Howrah, alongside projects like the Madhupur Bypass line and the Hazaribag Town Coaching Depot, aimed at reducing congestion and improving maintenance.

Air connectivity: The inauguration of Deoghar Airport, with plans for new airports in Bokaro and Dumka, signifies a push towards integrating Jharkhand into India's aviation network, promoting tourism and economic activities.

Multi-modal connectivity: The Sahibganj Multi-Modal Terminal, inaugurated under the Jal Marg Vikas Project, exemplifies Modi's vision for eco-friendly transport solutions, enhancing cargo movement via waterways, rail, and road.

Industrial and economic growth:

Industrial development: Initiatives like the North Karanpura Super Thermal Power Project and railway upgrades are transforming Jharkhand into a logistical hub, with projects like the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor and Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor reducing transportation costs and accelerating industrial growth.

Social development: Beyond infrastructure, the Modi government's focus on education (Eklavya Model Residential Schools, PM SHRI Schools) and healthcare (AIIMS Deoghar, Ayushman Bharat Scheme) aims at inclusive growth, particularly for tribal and rural communities.

The launch of these Vande Bharat Express trains by PM Modi not only enhances connectivity but also underscores the Central Government's commitment to Jharkhand's comprehensive development. 

These initiatives, while promising economic dividends, also play a crucial role in the political narrative, positioning the BJP as the harbinger of progress against the backdrop of the JMM government's perceived underperformance. As Jharkhand moves towards future elections, these development projects could significantly influence public opinion, reflecting the Modi government's strategy of development as a means to political ends.