Modi pitches for double engine government at NDA rally in Coimbatore…
COIMBATORE
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called upon voters in Tamil Nadu to support the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), asserting that a “double engine” government would ensure faster implementation of welfare schemes and development projects.
Addressing a public meeting at CODISSIA grounds in Peelamedu, Mr. Modi said the people of Tamil Nadu should deliver a “powerful message” in the upcoming elections by voting for the NDA candidates.
Senior leaders including AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagendran, former State BJP chief K. Annamalai, and former Minister S. P. Velumani were present at the meeting. BJP candidate Vanathi Srinivasan and several NDA candidates from Coimbatore, Tiruppur, and the Nilgiris also attended.
Women’s reservation issue raised
The Prime Minister referred to the women’s reservation initiative introduced in 2023, stating that efforts were made to build consensus across political parties. He, however, alleged that the DMK and Congress did not extend support to the proposal.
He emphasised the need for greater representation of women in Parliament and State Assemblies.
Focus on Central schemes and funding
Mr. Modi said the Union government had allocated ₹14 lakh crore to Tamil Nadu over the past five years for various development initiatives. He highlighted investments in sectors such as highways, railways, and aviation.
He also criticised the State government over rising debt levels, stating that the burden on individual citizens was increasing.
Push for solar energy adoption
Highlighting renewable energy initiatives, the Prime Minister said rooftop solar schemes could help households save up to ₹8,000 annually. He added that subsidies were being provided by the Union government to promote solar power adoption.
He noted that industrial regions such as Coimbatore could significantly benefit from increased use of solar energy.
Healthcare initiatives highlighted
Referring to healthcare schemes, Mr. Modi said that under the Ayushman Bharat programme, eligible beneficiaries could avail treatment up to ₹5 lakh.
He added that senior citizens above 70 years were eligible for free treatment and that affordable medicines were being made available through government-run pharmacies at subsidised rates.
Call for support to NDA
Reiterating the need for a “double engine” government, Mr. Modi said alignment between the Union and State governments would ensure faster delivery of welfare schemes, benefiting the poor and middle class.
He urged party workers to reach out to first-time voters and women, and to explain the NDA’s policies at the grassroots level.
Calling for a decisive mandate in the April 23 election, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that the NDA would secure a significant victory in Tamil Nadu.
