Modi unveils transformational projects worth Rs. 4200 crore in Pithoragarh
In a momentous visit to Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stones and inaugurated several pivotal development projects collectively valued at approximately Rs. 4200 crore. These initiatives span various sectors, including rural development, road infrastructure, power, irrigation, drinking water supply, horticulture, education, health, and disaster management.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister expressed his deep gratitude for the remarkable love and blessings bestowed upon him by the people of Uttarakhand. He described the affection as a “Ganga of Affection” and emphasized his reverence for the land’s spirituality and valor, especially acknowledging the courageous mothers. He commended the unwavering dedication of Garhwal Rifles soldiers, whose spirits soar upon hearing “Jai Badri Vishal” at Baidyanath Dham, and the tolling of bells at Kali Mandir in Gangolihat, which instills new courage in Kumaon regiment soldiers.
Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the numerous shrines that contribute to the grandeur and heritage of Uttarakhand, including Baidyanath, Nandadevi, Poorangiri, Kasardevi, Kainchidham, Katarmal, Nanakmatta, Reetha Sahib, and many more. He expressed his profound sense of blessing whenever he is in Uttarakhand.
During his visit, the Prime Minister performed a pooja and darshan at Parvati Kund, praying for the well-being of every Indian and the strengthening of India’s resolve for progress. He also mentioned his interactions with soldiers, artists, and self-help groups, expressing joy at meeting pillars of security, prosperity, and culture. He declared that the current decade will be Uttarakhand’s decade and highlighted the government’s dedication to enhancing the state’s progress and the quality of life of its residents.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the close association he has had with Uttarakhand, acknowledging the support and response he received from the state for the Narishakti Vandan Adhiniyam. He noted India’s growing recognition on the global stage and the country’s strong voice amid global challenges. He credited the Indian people for selecting a stable and strong government and highlighted the significant reduction in poverty over the past five years, with more than 13.5 crore Indians lifted out of poverty. He praised the all-inclusive approach of the government that ensures benefits reach even the remotest regions.
The Prime Minister pointed out India’s accomplishments, such as the successful Chandrayaan mission that landed on the moon’s south pole, naming the landing site “Shiv Shakti.” He also underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring the development of border areas and highlighted the extensive infrastructure work, including the construction of over 4,200 kilometers of roads, 250 bridges, and 22 tunnels in border regions.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of the Vibrant Village scheme, which aims to revitalize villages, attract residents who have left, and promote tourism. He recognized the past challenges faced by the people due to inadequate facilities and infrastructure in areas like water, healthcare, education, and roads. New facilities and infrastructure are being established to improve the lives of the people, particularly in the context of apple farming, roads, and irrigation facilities. The Prime Minister also mentioned the significant financial support provided to farmers in Uttarakhand through the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme.
In his speech, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the cultivation of Shri Anna, a special grain grown in Uttarakhand, and efforts to promote it globally. He announced a campaign benefiting small farmers across the country. The Prime Minister also outlined various initiatives to support women-led development, including providing permanent houses, toilets, gas connections, bank accounts, and free treatment and ration. He mentioned the distribution of drones to women’s self-help groups for agriculture and transportation, which will elevate Uttarakhand’s modernity.
Prime Minister Modi celebrated Uttarakhand’s cultural richness, acknowledging its fairs, songs, music, and unique cuisine. He expressed a desire to visit the Advaita Ashram in Champawat. He highlighted the government’s role in boosting tourism and pilgrimage in the state, citing an increase in devotees for the Char Dham Yatra. The Prime Minister also noted the progress in the reconstruction of Kedarnath Dham and the infrastructure improvements in Badrinath Dham.
He underlined the importance of expanding connectivity in Uttarakhand, particularly through projects like the Chardham Mega Project, All Weather Road, and Rishikesh-Karnprayag rail project. The Prime Minister also mentioned the UDAN scheme, which aims to provide affordable air services in the region. He applauded the government’s encouragement of homestays and predicted significant growth in the tourism sector.
Recognizing Uttarakhand’s vulnerability to natural disasters, the Prime Minister pledged to invest Rs. 4000 crore in projects aimed at disaster preparedness in the next 4-5 years.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Modi declared that this is India’s “Amrit Kaal,” a time to connect every region and section of the country with facilities, respect, and prosperity. He expressed confidence that, with the blessings of Baba Kedar and Badri Vishal, India would rapidly achieve its resolutions.
The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, and other state government officials attended the event.
