Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 75 redeveloped railway stations across 20 states through a virtual programme held from Jalandhar in Punjab. The stations have been upgraded under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), a nationwide initiative aimed at modernising railway infrastructure. Built at an investment of around ₹1,570 crore, the revamped stations offer enhanced passenger amenities while reflecting regional heritage and architectural styles.

The upgraded stations include Jalandhar Cantonment, SAS Nagar (Mohali), Sri Muktsar Sahib and Sri Anandpur Sahib in Punjab; Pratapnagar, Godhra, Porbandar and Bhaktinagar in Gujarat; Barpali, Balangir, Paralakhemundi, Talcher, Kesinga, Bimalgarh and Baripada in Odisha; as well as nine stations under the Southern Railway. Developed under the theme 'Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi', each station incorporates design elements inspired by local culture and traditions.

During the event, the Prime Minister flagged off the Kartoli–Ambala train service, which is expected to strengthen rail connectivity across Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. He also launched the Sant Ravidas Express connecting Amritsar (Chheharta) with Varanasi, providing a direct rail service between the two prominent pilgrimage destinations.

The railway initiatives formed part of a wider package of rail and road infrastructure projects worth more than ₹5,470 crore announced in Jalandhar. As part of the programme, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the 30.9-kilometre Package-6 section of the four-lane greenfield Delhi–Amritsar–Katra Expressway, aimed at improving regional connectivity.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi said the redevelopment of the stations reflects the rapid pace of modernisation achieved by Indian Railways in recent years. He reiterated the Centre's commitment to Punjab's development, stating that the government's focus remains on improving citizens' quality of life and expanding opportunities for growth. He added that the administration continues to be guided by the principle of 'Nagrik Devo Bhava'.