Foundation Stone of Kota Airport Laid; PM Modi Says Project Will Boost Economic Growth in Hadoti Region

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Kota Airport through a video message, describing the project as a major step toward strengthening connectivity and accelerating economic growth in Rajasthan's Hadoti region.

Highlighting the state's development trajectory, the Prime Minister said Rajasthan is witnessing rapid progress across sectors, and the construction of a modern airport in Kota will further enhance industrial activity, tourism and trade in the region.

"Rajasthan is progressing at an unprecedented pace, and this new airport will become a catalyst for economic and industrial growth," the Prime Minister said while addressing the gathering.

Development Momentum in Rajasthan

Referring to his recent visit to Ajmer, the Prime Minister said development initiatives across the state are moving at a fast pace. During the visit, projects worth thousands of crores were inaugurated and appointment letters were distributed to more than 21,000 youth.

He noted that such back-to-back development programmes within a short span reflect the speed at which the state is advancing.

"These programmes tell us at what speed Rajasthan is moving forward today," he said.

Airport to Transform Connectivity in Hadoti

The Prime Minister noted that the foundation stone of the modern airport marks a day of new opportunities for the people of Kota, Bundi, Baran and Jhalawar districts. The airport project is being developed at an estimated cost of around ₹1,500 crore.

Extending his wishes to the residents of the region, Modi said the new airport will significantly improve connectivity and support long-term economic development.

"This modern airport will give new momentum to the development of the entire region in the coming times," he said.

Recalling his visit to Kota in November 2023, the Prime Minister expressed satisfaction that the commitment made to the people regarding the airport project is now being fulfilled.

Currently, residents of the region often have to travel to Jaipur or Jodhpur to access air travel. Once operational, the Kota airport is expected to make travel easier and facilitate faster trade and investment flows in the region.

"When this airport starts, travel will be easy and trade will grow rapidly in the entire area including Kota," he added.

Kota's Unique Economic and Educational Identity

The Prime Minister highlighted Kota's distinctive role as both an education hub and an energy centre. The city hosts several major power generation facilities producing electricity through nuclear, coal, gas and hydropower sources.

In addition to its educational ecosystem, the region is known for traditional and industrial products such as Kota Doria sarees and Kota stone. Agricultural products from nearby districts, including Bundi's Basmati rice, also contribute to the regional economy.

According to Modi, improved air connectivity will enhance the national and global reach of these products.

"This new airport in Kota will work to multiply these possibilities many times over," he said.

Boost to Tourism and Local Economy

The Prime Minister also underlined the tourism potential of the Hadoti region. Religious and cultural sites such as Shri Mathuradhish Ji temple and Garadia Mahadev attract large numbers of visitors, while Mukundara Hills is known for its wildlife and natural landscape.

Enhanced air connectivity, he said, would help attract more domestic and international tourists, generating new opportunities for local businesses, youth and traders.

"The enhanced air connectivity will bring global tourists to the region, and its direct benefit will be available to the youth, traders and local economy here," he said.

Expanding Connectivity Infrastructure

The Prime Minister also referred to ongoing infrastructure projects in Kota aimed at strengthening connectivity. These include the modernization of railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme and improved road connectivity through the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway.

He noted that the addition of air connectivity alongside road and rail networks would accelerate the development of the region, while also supporting the growth of agro-based industries.

"This new chapter of air connectivity after rail and road will give more speed to the development of Kota," he said.

Recognition for Local Leadership

During his address, the Prime Minister acknowledged the contribution of Kota Member of Parliament and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in advancing development projects in the region.

He praised Birla's dedication to public service and referred to his role in managing parliamentary proceedings.

"He is a teacher who handles the entire class well, even when facing unruly students from certain big families," Modi remarked.

India's Expanding Aviation Network

Highlighting the broader transformation of India's aviation sector, the Prime Minister noted that the number of airports in the country has increased significantly over the past decade.

According to him, the total number of operational airports has grown from about 70 in 2014 to more than 160 today.

He also cited the development of new airports and terminals around Delhi as examples of the government's efforts to decentralize air connectivity and expand infrastructure across regions.

"I am confident that this new airport of Kota will also give new momentum to the development of this area in the same way," he said.

Vision for Developed Rajasthan and Developed India

Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister stressed that rapid development requires strong governance, clear intent and coordination between the Centre and the state.

He reiterated that the concept of a "Double Engine" government has played a key role in accelerating infrastructure development and economic growth.

The Prime Minister said that the growing infrastructure base in Rajasthan is strengthening the larger national vision of building a developed India.

"This strong foundation of Developed Rajasthan is giving more strength to the resolution of Developed India," he said.