Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a visit to his parliamentary constituency, laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development works worth over ₹3,880 crore in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister reiterated his emotional bond with the holy city, stating, “Kashi is mine, and I belong to Kashi.”
Marking the eve of Hanuman Janmotsav, PM Modi described the occasion as a “festival of development” and underscored the transformation of Varanasi over the last decade. “In the past 10 years, the development of Varanasi has gained new momentum,” he said, adding that the city has preserved its heritage while embracing modernity.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
The Prime Minister highlighted the extensive infrastructure upgrades in Varanasi and Purvanchal, including road, rail, and airport connectivity. He inaugurated the Phulwariya flyover, praised the impact of the Ring Road in easing travel, and announced the construction of a new bridge between Varanasi and Sarnath. He also mentioned the ongoing expansion of Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport and a six-lane underground tunnel for better access.
Projects connecting Bhadohi, Ghazipur, and Jaunpur were launched, along with long-pending flyovers in Bhikharipur and Manduadih. Modi noted that over ₹45,000 crore had been invested in connectivity in the past ten years, which has not only transformed infrastructure but also earned the trust of citizens.
Health Capital of Purvanchal
Declaring that “Kashi is now becoming the health capital,” PM Modi pointed to the improvement in healthcare facilities in the region. Advanced hospitals, earlier available only in metros, are now operational in Varanasi. He highlighted the Ayushman Bharat scheme and Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana as game-changers, providing free treatment and ensuring dignity for senior citizens.
Nearly 50,000 Vay Vandana Cards have been distributed in Varanasi alone, the highest in the country. “This is not just a number, but a testament to our commitment to healthcare and dignity,” the Prime Minister said.
Empowering Rural Economy: Banas Dairy
PM Modi praised the role of the Banas Dairy in transforming rural livelihoods, especially for women. He announced a ₹100 crore bonus to livestock rearers and celebrated the rise of “Lakhpati Didis” in the region.
“Banas Dairy has changed both the image and destiny of thousands of families in Kashi,” he said, noting India’s emergence as the world’s largest milk producer with a 65% rise in production over a decade. He also lauded efforts to strengthen dairy infrastructure, including vaccinations, credit access, and scientific breeding through the Rashtriya Gokul Mission.
Strengthening Culture and Heritage
The Prime Minister paid tribute to social reformers Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule, whose birth anniversary was being observed. He reiterated the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, aligning with their vision.
He also emphasized India’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing development. “Our Kashi is becoming the best model of how to carry forward development and heritage together,” he said, pointing to initiatives like the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam and the upcoming Ekta Mall, which will showcase products from across the country.
GI Tag Recognition and UP’s New Identity
Underlining Uttar Pradesh’s transformation into a land of accomplishments, Modi said the state is now leading the nation in Geographical Indication (GI) tag recognition. More than 30 products from Varanasi and surrounding districts have received GI tags, including the city’s tabla, shehnai, thandai, and red peda. “These tags are not just labels but passports of identity,” he remarked.
He said the global recognition of “Made in India” products reflects India’s growing stature and confidence, with Uttar Pradesh contributing significantly to this shift.
Youth and Sports Infrastructure
PM Modi noted the government’s focus on promoting sports among the youth in Purvanchal, citing new stadiums, a sports complex in Varanasi, and the MP Sports Competition as examples of encouraging local talent.
He also mentioned the trial run of the city’s ropeway project, set to make Varanasi one of the few global cities with such an urban transport facility.
Concluding Remarks
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister stressed the spiritual and cultural importance of Varanasi, calling it the “most beautiful representation of India’s soul and diversity.” He vowed to continue the mission of empowering Kashi and connecting its ancient soul with a modern identity.
The event was attended by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
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