Aizawl: History was created on Saturday with Mizoram getting connected to the country’s railway map. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bairabi-Sairang railway line during the day and flagged-off the first Rajdhani Express from Mizoram.
The PM inaugurated the project from Mizoram’s Lengpui airport and apologised for not being able to reach Aizawl.
“Unfortunately, due to bad weather, I am unable to join you at Aizawl, but I can feel your love and affection,” Modi said.
“Whether the freedom movement or nation building, the people of Mizoram have always come forward to contribute… Sacrifice and service, courage and compassion, these values are at the centre of Mizo society. Today, Mizoram is playing an important role in India’s development journey. This is a historic day for the nation, particularly for the people of Mizoram,” he added.
The PM highlighted the challenges that had to be overcome to complete the project and its importance.
“From today, Aizawl will be on India’s railway map. A few years ago, I had the opportunity of laying the foundation stone for the Aizawl railway line and today, we proudly dedicate it to the people of the nation. Overcoming many challenges, including difficult terrain, this Bairabi-Sairang railway line has become a reality. The skills of our engineers and the spirit of our workers made this possible. Our hearts have always been directly connected to each other. For the first time, Sairang in Mizoram will be connected directly with Delhi by the Rajdhani Express,” he said.
Modi also hit out at the Congress, without naming the party, for engaging in votebank politics and working for those parts of the country that have more votes.
“For a long time, some political parties in our country have practised vote bank politics. Their focus was always on places that had more votes and seats. The entire Northeast, including states like Mizoram, suffered greatly because of this attitude. But our approach is very different. Those who were earlier neglected are at the forefront now. Those who were once marginalised are the mainstream now,” he said.
“Mizoram is blessed with talented youths. Our work is to empower them. Our government has already started 11 A-Club residential schools here. Work is going to start six more schools. Our Northeast is also becoming a major hub for startups. I’m happy that around 4,500 startups and 25 incubators are operating in the region. Young people of Mizoram are actively joining this movement and creating new opportunities for themselves and others. India is quickly becoming an important hub for global sports,” the PM said.
He also highlighted sports and the role played by Mizoram in sending talented sportspersons to the national level.
“This is also creating a sports economy in the country. Mizoram has a wonderful tradition of sports producing many champions in football and all other sports. Our sports policies are benefiting Mizoram as well. Under the Khelo India scheme, we are supporting the creation of modern sports infrastructure. Recently, our government has also come out with a national sports policy, Khelo India Khel Niti. This will open new doors of opportunity for the youth of Mizoram,” Modi said.
Speaking on measures to bring people out of economic suffering, the Prime Minister said how healthcare used to be expensive during the Congress era.
“Our economy has seen a growth of 7.8% in the first quarter of 2025-26. It means India is the fastest-growing major economy in the world. We are also seeing the growth of Make in India and exports. During Operation Sindoor, you all saw how our soldiers taught a lesson to those who sponsored terror. The whole nation was filled with a sense of pride about our armed forces. In this operation, Made in India weapons played a significant role in protecting our country. The growth of our economy and manufacturing sector is very important for our national security. Our government is committed to the welfare of every citizen, every family and every region. It is through the empowerment of the people that a developed India will be built. In this journey, I am confident that the people of Mizoram will play a very important role,” he said.