Dehradun, April 15 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that large-scale infrastructural developments in India, such as the Rs.12,000-crore Delhi-Dehradun Economic Corridor that was inaugurated on Tuesday, are new gateways of economic growth that boost trade and industrial development. The 213 km-long six-lane access-controlled corridor has been built at a cost of over Rs 12,000 crore. It traverses through Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, and will reduce travel time between Delhi and Dehradun from over six hours at present to around two-and-a-half hours, according to an official statement. Addressing a gathering in the state's capital, Modi said in the 21st century India's model of development is being recognised globally. "Infrastructure is being developed at a large scale in the country. Many corridors are being developed across India, and they are new gateways of economic growth that boost trade and industrial development," the PM said. He said the corridor will save time, fuel and travel costs while also creating employment opportunities and boosting tourism in cities such as Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh and Mussoorie, besides facilitating travel to the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. "When tourism grows, everyone benefits. I am happy that Uttarakhand is emerging as a hub for winter tourism and winter sports. Year-round tourism is vital for the state's economy," he said. Referring to the state's journey since its formation, the PM said, "With this corridor, another milestone has been added to the state's history. This young state is developing rapidly and the project will further accelerate its growth, especially from the tourism perspective," he said. Paying tributes to BR Ambedkar on his birth anniversary, Modi said government policies and projects are aligned with Ambedkar's vision and the Constitution. He also referred to the abrogation of Article 370 and steps taken to curb Naxalism. He added that Uttarakhand has shown a way to the country by implementing the UCC. "Roads, highways, waterways and airways are the luck-lines of the nation and we are committed to strengthening them," he said, adding that infrastructure spending on connectivity has increased in recent years. "Till 2014, even Rs.2 lakh crores were not spent on connectivity in the country, Now it has increased to Rs.12 lakh crores and Rs.1.15 lakh crores are being spent in the hill state alone. Our double-engine government has ensured road connectivity reaches remote villages in the country," he said. The PM also spoke about the role of women in the country's development. "Women have a bigger role in the country's development. We are trying our best to ensure that women get regular supply of cooking gas despite the ongoing conflict in West Asia," he said. Earlier in the day, Modi visited Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh, where he reviewed the wildlife corridor on the elevated section of the project. He also offered prayers at the Jai Maa Daat Kali Temple....