Dehradun: Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Uttarakhand’s State Foundation Day and Silver Jubilee celebrations by inaugurating and laying the foundation stones for development projects worth ₹8,260 crore in Dehradun on Sunday.
Addressing a large gathering at the Forest Research Institute (FRI) campus, the Prime Minister extended greetings to the people of Uttarakhand in Garhwali and Kumaoni, paying heartfelt tributes to the martyrs and activists of the Uttarakhand statehood movement.
He said that November 9 represents the culmination of the people’s long struggle and sacrifices, symbolizing pride for every citizen of the state.
From Challenges to Achievements in 25 Years
Reflecting on the journey since the state’s formation in 2000, Prime Minister Modi recalled that Uttarakhand faced numerous challenges during its early years, including limited resources and a small budget. “At that time, most of the state’s needs were met through central assistance,” he said.
He highlighted the transformation of Uttarakhand over the past 25 years, noting several key milestones:
- The state’s annual budget has grown from ₹4,000 crore to over ₹1 lakh crore.
- Power generation has quadrupled, and road length has doubled.
- Air travel has expanded dramatically — from 4,000 passengers every six months at the time of formation to over 4,000 passengers daily today.
- The number of engineering colleges and medical colleges has increased significantly, from one medical college then to ten now.
- The state has achieved 100% vaccine coverage, compared to less than 25% during its early years.
Encouraging Youth and Entrepreneurs
The Prime Minister also interacted with young entrepreneurs and innovators at the event, expressing confidence in the state’s potential. “Every citizen of Uttarakhand is ready to contribute towards making India a developed nation,” he remarked.
He lauded the state’s growing popularity as a film shooting destination due to its new film policy, and as an emerging wedding destination under the “Wed in India” initiative. Modi emphasized the need to develop premium facilities to promote tourism and attract global visitors.
PM Commends CM Dhami’s Leadership
Prime Minister Modi praised Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami for his strong and decisive governance. He particularly lauded the state government’s implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), calling it a model for other states.
He also acknowledged Uttarakhand’s proactive stance on anti-conversion laws, riot control legislation, and other measures aimed at maintaining social harmony and national interest.
CM Dhami Expresses Gratitude
In his address, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami extended greetings to all citizens on the state’s 25th Foundation Day and expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for gracing the historic occasion.
Quoting scriptures, he said, “Raja dharmasya karanam” — meaning “the ruler is the protector of righteousness” — and added that the Prime Minister embodies this principle through his devoted and visionary leadership.
Dhami also praised the Indian Armed Forces for their success in Operation Sindoor, crediting the Prime Minister’s guidance for strengthening national security.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to preserving Uttarakhand’s cultural identity, demographic balance, and traditional heritage, alongside rapid development. He cited landmark initiatives such as the Uniform Civil Code, Anti-Cheating Act, Anti-Conversion Law, Riot Prevention Law, and the dissolution of the Madrasa Board as key steps toward building a harmonious and progressive society.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was attended by Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Gurmit Singh, Union Minister of State Ajay Tamta, Speaker Ritu Khanduri, Rajya Sabha MP and BJP State President Mahendra Bhatt, and several senior officials and dignitaries.
A Vision for the Next 25 Years
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Modi urged the people of Uttarakhand to prepare a vision roadmap for the next 25 years, focusing on sustainable growth, tourism, innovation, and cultural preservation. “The coming 25 years are crucial for transforming Uttarakhand into a leading state in developed India,” he said.
