Dehradun: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday lauded the remarkable growth of tourism in Uttarakhand during the state’s Silver Jubilee celebrations in Dehradun. Highlighting the progress over the last 25 years, the Prime Minister noted that 4,000 tourists now visit Uttarakhand daily, a sharp contrast to the 4,000 tourists who used to visit over six months when the state was formed.
“25 years ago, 4,000 tourists used to visit Uttarakhand in a span of six months by aeroplane. Today, approximately 4,000 tourists arrive in Uttarakhand daily by plane. In the last 25 years, the number of engineering colleges has increased tenfold. Earlier, there was only one medical college; today, there are ten,” PM Modi remarked.
Promoting Uttarakhand as the Spiritual Capital of the World
The Prime Minister emphasized Uttarakhand’s spiritual significance, urging the state to establish itself as the “Spiritual Capital” globally. “The true identity of Uttarakhand lies in its spiritual strength. If Uttarakhand makes up its mind, in just a few years it can become the Spiritual Capital of the world. Its temples, ashrams, and centers for meditation and yoga can be connected to a global network. People from across India and abroad already come here for wellness,” he added.
Inauguration and Foundation Stones of Key Development Projects
During the event, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple development projects worth over Rs 8,140 crore. Projects inaugurated totaled over Rs 930 crore, while the foundation stones for upcoming projects accounted for over Rs 7,210 crore.
These projects cover crucial sectors such as drinking water, irrigation, technical education, energy, urban development, sports, and skill development.
In addition, the Prime Minister released Rs 62 crore under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana directly to over 28,000 farmers’ bank accounts.
Notable Projects Inaugurated Include:
- Expansion of Dehradun’s water supply to 23 zones under the AMRUT scheme
- Electrical substation in Pithoragarh district
- Solar power plants in government buildings
- AstroTurf Hockey Ground at Haldwani Stadium, Nainital
Key Projects Laid Foundation Stones Include:
- Song Dam Drinking Water Project to supply 150 MLD of drinking water to Dehradun
- Jamarani Dam Multipurpose Project in Nainital for drinking water, irrigation, and electricity generation
- Electrical substations across the state
- Women’s Sports College in Champawat
- State-of-the-art dairy plant in Nainital
The Prime Minister highlighted that these initiatives will not only enhance the infrastructure and living standards of Uttarakhand but also reinforce the state’s reputation as a center for tourism, spirituality, and holistic development.
