Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated four new Vande Bharat Express trains from Varanasi Railway Station on Saturday, emphasizing India’s engineering prowess, self-reliance, and the role of robust infrastructure in national development. The Varanasi–Khajuraho Vande Bharat Express was inaugurated in person, while the Delhi–Ferozepur, Lucknow–Saharanpur, and Ernakulam–Bengaluru trains were flagged off virtually.
Dignitaries Present at the Flag-Off Ceremony
The event was attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav, Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Union Ministers Suresh Gopi, George Kurien, Ravneet Singh Bittu, and Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brijesh Pathak. PM Modi began his address in Bhojpuri, greeting the citizens of Kashi and extending his wishes on the city’s festival of development following Dev Deepawali.
Vande Bharat Trains: A Symbol of National Pride
PM Modi highlighted the significance of modern rail infrastructure, stating, “Robust infrastructure is the foundation of every developed nation. India is moving swiftly on the path of growth through expanded railways, roads, and modern systems.” He noted that over 160 Vande Bharat trains are now operational across India, symbolizing engineering excellence and self-reliance. “Vande Bharat, Namo Bharat, and Amrit Bharat trains are built by Indians for Indians and are a matter of national pride,” he said.
Pilgrimage and Tourism Driving Economic Growth
The Prime Minister emphasized that pilgrimages in India are not merely spiritual journeys but also engines of economic growth. He cited destinations like Prayagraj, Ayodhya, Haridwar, Chitrakoot, and Kurukshetra, now connected via Vande Bharat trains, fostering a unique blend of faith and development. Highlighting tourism’s economic impact, he said, “Last year, 11 crore devotees visited Baba Vishwanath Dham, and over 6 crore visited Ram Lalla in Ayodhya after the temple construction. Tourism has generated thousands of crores in revenue and created employment for lakhs of people in Uttar Pradesh.”
Kashi Emerging as a Health and Development Hub
PM Modi pointed out that Kashi is emerging as the health capital of Purvanchal, with modern hospitals, cancer centers, Ayushman Bharat initiatives, and Jan Aushadhi Kendras offering advanced healthcare locally. He also mentioned ongoing development projects, including new roads, gas pipelines, stadiums, and ropeways, which are rapidly improving the city’s infrastructure and connectivity.
Encouraging Youth Creativity and Cultural Talent
The Prime Minister lauded the children of Kashi who presented poems and paintings on “Viksit Bharat” during the event. “As the MP from Kashi, I am proud of the immense talent of our children. I wish to organize a national poetry conference in Kashi to showcase their talent across the country,” he said, encouraging youth engagement and creativity.
Concluding Remarks: Kashi at the Heart of Viksit Bharat
Concluding his address, PM Modi reaffirmed Kashi’s pivotal role in shaping a Viksit Bharat. He urged citizens to sustain the energy and momentum of Kashi to realize the dream of a prosperous and modern city. The newly inaugurated Vande Bharat trains are expected to enhance connectivity for pilgrims, boost tourism, and accelerate economic development in the region.
