Dehradun, November 9
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the silver jubilee celebration of formation of Uttarakhand in Dehradun today. During the programme, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for various development projects worth over Rs 8140 crores. Speaking on the occasion, Modi extended his greetings to the people of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand and conveyed his heartfelt salutations, respect, and service to all.
Prime Minister stated that November 9 is the result of a long and dedicated struggle and the day evokes a deep sense of pride in all of us. He highlighted that the god-like people of Uttarakhand had long envisioned a dream that was fulfilled 25 years ago under the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government. Reflecting on the journey of the past 25 years, Modi observed that seeing the heights Uttarakhand has reached today, it is natural for every person who once struggled for the creation of this beautiful state to feel happy. He noted that those who love the mountains, who cherish Uttarakhand’s culture, its natural beauty, and have affection for the people of Devbhoomi, are filled with joy and delight today.
Recalling that 25 years ago, when Uttarakhand was newly formed, the challenges were immense, Modi said that resources were limited, the state budget was small, sources of income were scarce, and most needs were met through central assistance. He remarked that the picture has now completely changed. Before arriving at the event, he visited a remarkable exhibition on the silver jubilee celebrations, which showcased glimpses of Uttarakhand’s journey over the past 25 years. He highlighted that in sectors such as infrastructure, education, industry, tourism, health, power, and rural development, the stories of success are truly inspiring. The Prime Minister noted that 25 years ago, Uttarakhand’s budget was only Rs 4,000 crore, which has now crossed Rs 1 lakh crore. In this period, electricity generation in the state has increased fourfold, and the length of roads has doubled. He added that earlier, only 4,000 air passengers arrived here in six months, whereas today, more than 4,000 passengers arrive by air in a single day.
Modi further highlighted that in the past 25 years, the number of engineering colleges in Uttarakhand has increased more than tenfold. He noted that earlier there was only one medical college, whereas today there are ten. He stated that 25 years ago, vaccine coverage was below 25 percent, but now nearly every village in Uttarakhand falls within the ambit of vaccine coverage. The Prime Minister remarked that Uttarakhand has made significant progress across all dimensions of life. He described this journey of development as remarkable and attributed the transformation to the policy of inclusive growth and the collective resolve of every citizen of Uttarakhand. He reflected that earlier, the steep climbs of the mountains hindered the path of development, but now new paths are beginning to open.
Prime Minister also shared about his earlier interaction with the youth and entrepreneurs of Uttarakhand, all of whom are highly enthusiastic about the state’s growth. He expressed that the sentiments of Uttarakhand’s people today can be summed up in Garhwali as: “By 2047, when India joins the league of developed nations, my Uttarakhand, my Devbhoomi, will be fully ready.”
Announcing that several projects have been inaugurated and foundation stones laid today to accelerate Uttarakhand’s development journey, Modi said these projects, related to education, health, tourism, and sports, will generate new employment opportunities in the region. He highlighted that the Jamrani and Song dam projects will play a crucial role in resolving the drinking water issues of Dehradun and Haldwani. Over Rs 8,000 crore will be invested in these schemes. He extended his congratulations to the people of Uttarakhand for these initiatives.
Governor of Uttarakhand is Lt.Gen.(Retd.) Gurmit Singh, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand Pushkar Singh Dhami, Union Minister Ajay Tamta were present among other dignitaries at the event.
