PM Modi Urges Health Awareness, Unveils ₹2,500 Cr Projects in DNH, Daman & Diu

Silvassa : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu on Friday, highlighted the growing concern of lifestyle diseases, particularly obesity, and urged people to adopt healthier habits. Citing a recent report, he expressed concern that by 2050, nearly 44 crore Indians could suffer from obesity, making it a critical health issue.

“This is a serious problem. Every family in India will have at least one person suffering from obesity if we do not take immediate action. I want all of you to make a promise—reduce your edible oil consumption by 10% every month,” he appealed. Modi also encouraged citizens to incorporate exercise into their daily routine, suggesting initiatives like “Sunday on Cycle and Walk.” He emphasized that a healthy population is essential for achieving the vision of Vikshit Bharat.

During his visit, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for projects worth ₹2,500 crore spanning multiple sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, tourism, and education. In line with this, he will inaugurate the Namo Hospital (Phase-1) in Silvassa. Built at a cost of over Rs 460 crore, this 450-bed hospital will significantly strengthen healthcare services in the Union Territory. It will provide state-of-the-art healthcare to the people of the region, especially the tribal communities.

Reflecting on his long-standing connection with the region, Modi recalled how Silvassa, Daman, and Diu have transformed in the last decade. He lauded the region’s rapid development, comparing it to Singapore’s evolution from a fishing village to a global hub.

“Silvassa is now a cosmopolitan city where people from across India live and work. This transformation has been driven by new opportunities, and I am confident that if the people of this Union Territory decide to make it like Singapore, I will stand by them,” he said.

PM Narendra Modi says, “Earlier, I used to be happy to see that four languages including Hindi, Marathi, English and Gujarati are the mediums of studies here. Now, it makes me proud that even in primary and junior schools – the children are getting education in smart classes…”

Healthcare was a major focus of the visit, with Modi inaugurating new health projects, including a 450-bed hospital in Silvassa. PM Modi outlined how the Jan Aushadhi kendras has redefined healthcare across India. The establishment of Jan Aushadhi Kendras has provided affordable medicines, with over 15,000 centers already operational and plans to expand to 25,000. These initiatives have saved Indian citizens approximately ₹30,000 crore, making essential medicines more accessible.

“Our Jan Aushadhi program ensures that medicines are available at an 80% discount. In the coming years, we aim to expand this network, ensuring better healthcare facilities for all,” Modi announced.

Modi also highlighted the emergence of Silvassa and the Union Territory as an education hub. With the establishment of six national-level institutes, including Namo Medical College, the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), and an Institute of Hotel Management, the region is now offering world-class educational opportunities. The expansion of healthcare and engineering institutions aims to provide high-quality education and training for the youth, equipping them for a competitive future.

The Union Territory’s tourism sector has been steadily growing with the introduction of projects like Daman’s Ram Setu, Namo Path, and Tent City, which have become major tourist attractions. Additionally, the upcoming Diu Cable Car Project is expected to boost tourism further. The introduction of the Night Market in Daman has also been a hit, drawing visitors and increasing local business opportunities.

On the industrial front, the region has witnessed significant growth in manufacturing, contributing to employment opportunities. Modi highlighted that the Mission Manufacturing initiative under the Union Budget would further benefit Silvassa by attracting new industries and creating job opportunities.

Modi reinforced that Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman, and Diu are not just a Union Territory but a symbol of India’s heritage and pride. The government’s vision is to develop it into a model region known for hi-tech infrastructure, world-class healthcare, premier educational institutions, industrial growth, tourism, blue economy initiatives, and women empowerment.

“In the last decade, we have worked tirelessly to change the face of this Union Territory. Today, it stands as a prime example of good governance and ease of living,” he said, reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring 100% implementation of schemes like One Nation, One Ration Card, Jal Jeevan Mission, and PM Jan Dhan Yojana.