Today marks 25 years since the establishment of the state of Uttarakhand. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the main event held at FRI. He released a commemorative postage stamp and addressed the gathering. He also announced projects worth ₹8,260 crore for the state at the Silver Jubilee celebrations. He said the state’s development journey has been remarkable. It is the result of the determination of every Uttarakhandi.
Read the highlights of the speech
• PM Modi began his speech by greeting the public in Garhwali. He said, “My brothers and sisters from Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, my greetings to all of you.”
• The PM said in Garhwali, “In 2047, India will join the ranks of developed countries and my Uttarakhand will be fully prepared.”
• Listing achievements, he said that Uttarakhand’s budget was originally ₹4,000 crore. Today, it has increased to over ₹1 lakh crore.
• He said that Uttarakhand has become an energy state. Electricity production has quadrupled.
• Improved road connectivity is being implemented here. The length of roads has doubled.
• Air travel has received a boost in the state. Previously, 4,000 passengers used to travel by plane every six months. Now, 4,000 passengers travel by plane every day.
• The number of engineering colleges in the state has increased. Previously, there was only one medical college. Today, there are 10 medical colleges.
• Vaccine coverage was not even 25%. Today, every village is covered by vaccine coverage.
• He stated that Uttarakhand is the heartbeat of spiritual life. Projects related to education, health, tourism, and sports will further the development journey here.
• Today, projects worth more than 2 lakh rupees are underway in the state, which will prove to be game-changers in providing employment to the youth.
• The PM said, “Where there is a will, there is a way.” If we know our goal, we will definitely move forward. Uttarakhand has proven this.
• The demand for Ayurvedic herbs has increased here. Yoga centers, homestays, and a complete package should be built in every Vidhan Sabha.
• Mountain food should be served to tourists. This will delight them and this is what will attract them back.
• A campaign like “One District, One Fair” can be launched to promote local fairs and festivals. This will make festivals like Phul Dei and Harela visible on the global map.
• The Dhami government has also done excellent work on issues like demographic change and land encroachment.
• Every possible effort has been made to help the public in the field of disaster management.
