Jewar, Uttar Pradesh — Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday emphasized the importance of national unity and collective effort in addressing global challenges stemming from the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Speaking at the inauguration of the new Noida International Airport in Jewar, Modi urged citizens to work with dedication to safeguard India’s interests and contribute to a stronger, developed nation.
Addressing a large gathering, Modi said, “Friends, the positive effort of everybody is essential to realize a developed India. It is necessary that the 140 crore people of this country work hard and face international crises together.” The event marked the official opening of the first phase of the greenfield airport project, which spans over 1,300 hectares and includes one runway and a terminal capable of handling 12 million passengers annually.
The project, launched in 2019 under a public-private partnership model by the Uttar Pradesh government, was awarded to Zurich Airport International AG, based in Switzerland. The construction was executed by its local subsidiary, Yamuna International Airport Pvt Ltd. Modi had laid the foundation stone for this phase in 2021 and inaugurated it on Saturday. Once fully operational, it is expected to become the largest airport in India.
During the ceremony, Modi called upon political parties to refrain from making unfounded claims and creating unnecessary fears. He pointed out that India must face the West Asia crisis with patience and resolve, emphasizing the government’s proactive approach. “We have had detailed discussions in Parliament and with chief ministers on how to handle this crisis. Our policies are in India’s best interest, and negative statements only harm the nation,” he said.
The Prime Minister also addressed the criticism from opposition parties, which have accused his government of silence and inefficiency in handling the crisis and fuel shortages. Rahul Gandhi of the Congress party claimed that India’s foreign policy was “compromised” and accused Modi of aligning with foreign interests. Similarly, Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party criticized the government for returning to “medieval times,” citing queues for LPG and petrol. Mamata Banerjee, Bengal’s Chief Minister, ridiculed the government’s decision to reduce excise duties on fuel, comparing it to “increasing the price of a saree by ₹1,000 and offering a ₹400 discount.”
In response, Modi highlighted that opposition parties had reacted similarly during the COVID-19 pandemic but failed to gain political advantage. “During the coronavirus crisis, some spread rumors and misinformation about vaccines to make the government’s efforts difficult. But the people rejected such politics,” he said. Modi expressed confidence that political parties would learn from past experiences and support collective efforts to strengthen the nation.
The inauguration of Noida International Airport’s first phase marks a major milestone in India’s infrastructure development, with plans for future expansion. The airport aims to boost connectivity, economic growth, and India’s position as a global transit hub, aligning with the government’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India).