Delhi, 2 August (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth approximately ₹2,200 crore in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. During his address, he expressed his emotional connection with the citizens of Varanasi, particularly during the auspicious month of Sawan, and shared his gratitude for the opportunity to connect with farmers through videoconference. This visit marked his first to Varanasi following Operation Sindoor, which he reflected upon after the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 innocent lives, resulting in great sorrow for the families affected.

He reiterated his deep grief for the victims, praying to Baba Vishwanath for strength for the bereaved families and affirmed that his commitment to avenge the suffering endured had been fulfilled, crediting it to Lord Mahadev’s blessings.Prime Minister Modi recounts witnessing Shiva devotees carrying Gangajal in Varanasi, especially on the first Monday of Sawan, as an enchanting scene, praising the vibrant atmosphere filled with devotion. He shared his personal wish to visit Baba Vishwanath and Markandeya Mahadev but opted to send his salutations from afar to avoid disturbing worshippers.

The Prime Minister reflected on his recent visit to the historic Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple in Tamil Nadu, which symbolizes the unity of North and South India and pointed out that Rajendra Chola's vision of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat continues through government initiatives like Kashi-Tamil Sangamam.

Focusing on agricultural development, PM Modi announced the transfer of ₹21,000 crore to 10 crore farmers under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme as part of the celebration. He disclosed that development projects worth over ₹2,000 crore were announced during the event, attributing the continued development in Varanasi to Baba’s blessings. He also mentioned the hosting of various events such as the Member of Parliament Tourist Guide Competition and future photography and employment fairs, commending the local administration for their efforts.

The Prime Minister emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to farmers, contrasting the current administration's consistent support with that of previous governments, which he claimed seldom fulfilled promises. Refuting claims by opposition parties regarding his government’s credibility to the farmers, he noted that the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi has been consistently benefitting farmers without interruption since its launch in 2019, disbursing ₹3.75 lakh crore in total.

In Uttar Pradesh, approximately 2.5 crore farmers availed

exceeding ₹90,000 crore, with farmers in Varanasi receiving nearly ₹900 crore.Modi reiterated that the scheme guarantees farmers receive their rightful payments without any deductions. He introduced the new Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana, allocated with ₹24,000 crore, aimed at improving conditions for districts that have historically lagged behind due to previous governmental policies. His vision for enhancing farmers' livelihoods and reducing production costs remains strong, with government initiatives supporting irrigation and crop insurance through the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, which has settled over ₹1.75 lakh crore in claims.He highlighted that record increases have been made in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of crops, helping farmers secure fair prices.

PM Modi announced that the government is constructing thousands of warehouses to protect farmers' harvests and underlined the initiative to increase women's involvement in agriculture through campaigns like “Lakhpati Didi,” which aims to empower three crore women with financial independence.The Prime Minister also discussed the “Drone Didi” initiative, which has led to increased income for many women, and stated ongoing efforts to bring cutting-edge agricultural research directly to farmers. A major outreach program, Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, was recently carried out, fostering direct engagement with over 1.25 crore farmers under the guiding principle of “Lab to Land.”

PM Modi shared an important update about the Jan Dhan Yojana, which has opened 55 crore bank accounts for the poor across India entering its tenth year. He informed that a nationwide campaign for KYC verification compliance is underway, urging Jan Dhan account holders to complete this process promptly. He emphasized the addition of other key schemes being registered during bank camps organized in gram panchayats, such as the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, and Atal Pension Yojana, all aimed at providing vital financial support to citizens.

The Prime Minister’s emphasis on development and empowerment, alongside his commitments made during the address, highlighted the government’s focus on advancing farmers’ welfare and the overall upliftment of India's agricultural sector through strategic initiatives and financial assistance. His emotional connection with the community, along with his dedication toward enhancing the lives of farmers and furthering national unity, resonated through the proceedings of the event in Varanasi.

Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing road connectivity and overall development in Varanasi. Key projects include the widening and strengthening of the Varanasi - Bhadohi road and improvements on the Chhitauni- Shool Tankeshwar road, along with a Railway Overbridge at Hardattpur to alleviate congestion on the Mohan Sarai - Adalpura Road. Comprehensive road upgrades were initiated across multiple corridors, including Dalmandi, Lahartara-Kotwa, and Gangapur, alongside Railway Overbridges at Level Crossing 22C and Khalispur Yard.To bolster power infrastructure, works under the Smart Distribution Project and underground electrical infrastructure were launched, valued at over Rs 880 crore.

In a move to enhance tourism, redevelopment of 8 riverfront Kuccha Ghats, improvements at Kalika Dham, and beautification projects at various locations were inaugurated. The foundation stone was laid for the restoration of Kardameshwar Mahadev Temple and the development of cultural sites linked to freedom fighters and prominent figures.Waterbody preservation efforts were marked by maintenance and purification projects at significant kunds, and 47 rural drinking water schemes were launched as part of the Jal Jeevan Mission for potable water access.

Educational enhancements included the upgrading of school buildings and planning for new educational facilities.Health infrastructure saw advancements with the introduction of robotic surgery and CT scan facilities at local cancer centers, a new Homoeopathic College and Hospital, and an Animal Birth Control Centre. Sports facilities were improved with the opening of a synthetic hockey turf at Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Sports Stadium.

The Prime Minister also announced the release of over Rs 20,500 crore in the 20th installment of PM-KISAN for farmers' welfare.Lastly, he inaugurated a registration portal for community events and distributed assistive aids to over 7,400 beneficiaries, including Divyangjan and the elderly.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar