PM Modi calls Chandigarh a model city, launches projects worth over ₹4,700 crore

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday described Chandigarh as a model of development for the country and praised the city for its planned growth, quality of life and modern infrastructure. During his visit, he launched and inaugurated projects worth more than ₹4,700 crore aimed at strengthening healthcare, education, housing and public infrastructure in the Union Territory.

Addressing a gathering of more than 8,000 people at Punjab Engineering College (PEC), the Prime Minister said Chandigarh is not just another city but an example of how planned urban development can improve people's lives. He highlighted the city's strong infrastructure, ease of living, healthcare facilities and digital governance systems, saying that Chandigarh continues to serve as a benchmark for development across India.

The event was attended by several senior leaders and dignitaries, including Union Health Minister JP Nadda, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria, and Chandigarh Member of Parliament Manish Tewari.

Modi's visit focused on projects designed to improve public services and strengthen Chandigarh's role as a key regional hub serving not only residents of the city but also people from neighbouring states and Union Territories.

Chandigarh's role in regional development

Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Modi said Chandigarh occupies a strategically important position in northern India. He noted that the city connects Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh and also provides essential services to people from Jammu and Kashmir.

According to the Prime Minister, development in Chandigarh benefits a much larger population beyond the Union Territory's boundaries. Better healthcare facilities, educational institutions and infrastructure projects in the city help people across the region access important services more efficiently.

Modi said the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government has consistently prioritised Chandigarh's growth and development. He recalled several initiatives introduced in the city over the years, including smart city projects and digital governance measures.

Among the projects highlighted by the Prime Minister were the Integrated Command and Control Centre, smart traffic management systems, smart parking facilities and various digital governance initiatives. These measures, he said, have improved urban management and enhanced the quality of life for residents.

He also referred to the implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), noting that Chandigarh was among the first places chosen for its rollout because of its reputation as a model city.

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The Prime Minister further shared personal memories of his connection with Chandigarh. He recalled spending time in the city during earlier years and regularly visiting the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) to meet friends and acquaintances undergoing treatment.

Modi said it is always a pleasure to return to Chandigarh and reconnect with people and places associated with his earlier experiences.

His remarks were met with enthusiastic responses from the audience, many of whom gathered to witness the inauguration of projects expected to bring long-term benefits to the city and surrounding regions.

Focus on healthcare and education

A major portion of the projects announced during the visit focused on expanding healthcare infrastructure in Chandigarh.

The Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several new facilities at PGIMER, one of India's leading medical institutions.

These projects include the Advanced Neurosciences Centre, the Advanced Mother and Child Centre and a new Critical Care Hospital Block. Together, these facilities are expected to strengthen specialised healthcare services and improve treatment capacity for patients from Chandigarh and neighbouring states.

According to the Prime Minister, the expansion of advanced healthcare infrastructure at PGIMER will benefit lakhs of people by providing access to modern treatment and specialised medical care closer to home.

Healthcare experts have long highlighted the increasing demand for advanced medical facilities in the region. The new projects are expected to help reduce pressure on existing infrastructure while enhancing the institute's ability to handle complex medical cases.

In addition to healthcare projects, several educational initiatives were also inaugurated.

At Punjab Engineering College, Modi inaugurated the Kurukshetra Boys Hostel and Mess, which will provide improved accommodation and facilities for students.

He also laid the foundation stone for a new Research Scholars' Hostel at the institution. The project is expected to support postgraduate and doctoral students by providing dedicated residential facilities.

Another educational project inaugurated during the visit was a new hostel block at Government College, Sector 46. The facility is intended to improve student accommodation and support the growing educational needs of the city.

The Prime Minister emphasised that investments in education are crucial for preparing young people for future opportunities and strengthening India's knowledge economy.

Housing and public welfare also featured prominently among the projects launched during the event.

Modi inaugurated 240 residential units for Chandigarh Armed Police personnel in Dhanas. Built at a cost of approximately ₹65 crore, the housing project aims to provide better living conditions for police personnel and their families.

Officials said the project reflects the government's efforts to improve the welfare of security personnel who serve the city.

The Prime Minister arrived in Chandigarh around 2 pm, landing at the helipad in Rajendra Park, Sector 1. He was welcomed by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, senior BJP leaders and officials from the Chandigarh administration.

The visit attracted significant public attention, with thousands of residents attending the event and several development projects being showcased.

The projects launched during the visit are expected to contribute to Chandigarh's continued growth as a modern urban centre while strengthening its role as an important regional hub for healthcare, education and public services.

By investing in critical infrastructure and expanding access to essential services, the government aims to enhance the quality of life for residents and support economic and social development across northern India.

Modi's message throughout the event remained clear: Chandigarh's success as a planned city offers valuable lessons for the rest of the country. As new projects take shape and existing facilities expand, the city is expected to continue serving as an example of how coordinated development can improve living standards and create opportunities for future generations.