Daijiworld Media Network - Noida

Noida, Mar 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday praised farmers for driving what he called a “new phase of development” in Uttar Pradesh, highlighting their role not only in agriculture but also in ethanol production, which he said provided significant relief to the country during global economic uncertainty.

Speaking at the inauguration of Phase 1 of the Noida International Airport in Jewar, Modi emphasized how improved connectivity would transform the agricultural economy, enabling local produce to reach national and international markets more efficiently.

He acknowledged farmers’ contributions to ethanol production from sugarcane, noting that it has helped reduce India’s dependence on crude oil, potentially saving nearly 45 million barrels annually. Modi also expressed gratitude to farmers who provided land for the airport project, calling their support vital for realizing the infrastructure initiative.

The Prime Minister pointed to a series of recent developmental milestones in western Uttar Pradesh, including the foundation of a semiconductor factory in Noida, progress on the Delhi–Meerut Namo Bharat train project, the Meerut Metro expansion, and the airport inauguration, framing these as evidence of continued growth despite global challenges. He also highlighted the impact of the UDAN scheme, which has enabled over 1.7 crore citizens to travel affordably by air, and noted plans to develop 100 new small airports and 200 heliports, with Uttar Pradesh set to benefit substantially.

Modi stressed that the rapid expansion of India’s aviation sector is creating high demand for pilots, crew, ground staff, and maintenance personnel, offering significant employment opportunities for the youth. He added that the government is expanding aviation training facilities to prepare young people for these emerging roles, underscoring the linkage between infrastructure growth, agriculture, and economic opportunity in the region.