Varanasi: Amidst the sacred vibrance of Sawan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth ₹2,200 crore in his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi on August 2. He also released the 20th installment of the PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi, directly transferring over ₹20,500 crore to the bank accounts of more than 9.7 crore farmers across India.
Addressing the crowd, PM Modi expressed heartfelt emotions on meeting the people of Varanasi during this auspicious period. He extended warm greetings to every family, reinforcing his deep connection with the city.
A Visit Marked by Devotion and Remembrance
PM Modi noted this was his first visit to Varanasi since Operation Sindoor. He remembered the Pahalgam terror attack of April 22, where 26 innocent lives were lost. Referring to the sorrow of the victims’ families, especially children and daughters, he shared that he had prayed to Baba Vishwanath for strength for the bereaved.
Declaring that his vow to avenge the sindoor of the daughters had been fulfilled, he attributed the success of Operation Sindoor to the blessings of Lord Mahadev.
From Gangaikonda Cholapuram to Kashi: Echoes of Unity
Reflecting on his recent visit to the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple in Tamil Nadu, PM Modi highlighted King Rajendra Chola’s symbolic act of bringing Gangajal from North India a millennium ago. He said this spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” is being carried forward through initiatives like Kashi-Tamil Sangamam.
He described the spiritual fervour of Varanasi during Sawan—the pilgrims, damru beats, and Gangajal rituals—as a divine sight, while offering prayers from a distance to avoid disrupting devotees.
Historic Disbursement to Farmers
Calling it a “Krishak Mahotsav”, PM Modi announced the transfer of ₹21,000 crore to 10 crore farmers under PM-KISAN. He highlighted that till date, ₹3.75 lakh crore has been disbursed directly to farmers, including ₹90,000 crore to 2.5 crore farmers in UP and ₹900 crore to those in Varanasi.
He asserted the scheme’s transparency – “no leakage, no commission” – and said this permanent mechanism protects farmers’ rights.
Launch of New Agriculture Scheme for Backward Districts
PM Modi launched the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana, with an allocation of ₹24,000 crore. The scheme will prioritize districts with low agricultural productivity, aiming to boost farmers’ income in previously neglected areas.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to “transforming farmers’ lives from seed to market.”
Expanding Insurance, MSP, and Infrastructure Support
Acknowledging weather-related challenges, PM Modi said farmers had received over ₹1.75 lakh crore in insurance claims under PM Fasal Bima Yojana. He highlighted record MSP hikes for rice and wheat, and noted the construction of thousands of warehouses across India to protect harvests.
Women in Agriculture: Lakhpati Didi and Drone Didi
The Prime Minister emphasized women’s growing role in agriculture through schemes like Lakhpati Didi, which has already created 1.5 crore lakhpati women, and Drone Didi, boosting incomes using agri-tech.
Lab to Land: Direct Outreach to 1.25 Cr Farmers
Under the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, over 1.25 crore farmers were engaged through the “Lab to Land” model between May and June 2025. The campaign ensured direct communication of modern agricultural research and schemes to the field level. PM Modi shared that 55 crore Jan Dhan accounts have been opened so far. As these accounts now require fresh KYC after 10 years, a national campaign began on 1 July 2025, with camps set up in nearly one lakh gram panchayats.
He urged Jan Dhan holders to complete KYC and also enroll in related schemes like PM Suraksha Bima Yojana, PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, and the Atal Pension Yojana.
Critique of Opposition on Terrorism and Farmer Schemes
PM Modi lashed out at opposition parties for doubting PM-KISAN, and for calling Operation Sindoor a “tamasha”. He strongly criticized past leaders for their vote-bank politics, withdrawing terror cases, and questioning swift action against terrorists.
He asserted that India is no longer silent against attacks. “Even if terrorists hide in the underworld, they will be punished,” he said.
BrahMos Production in UP: A Moment of Pride
Highlighting India’s indigenous defence strength, the Prime Minister announced that BrahMos missiles will soon be manufactured in Lucknow, along with major defense units in the UP Defence Corridor. He declared this a proud moment, stating, “If misdeeds continue, missiles from UP will reply.”
From Law & Education to Ghats & Parks: Projects Galore
PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation for multiple development works in Varanasi:
- Road Projects: Widening of Varanasi–Bhadohi road, new rail overbridges, and rural corridor improvements.
- Power: ₹880 crore worth Smart Distribution Projects and underground electric works.
- Tourism: Redevelopment of 8 Kuccha Ghats, Kalika Dham, Rangildas Kutiya, and Durgakund restoration.
- Cultural Heritage: Restoration of Kardameshwar Mahadev temple, redevelopment of Munshi Premchand’s house, and preservation of key water bodies like Ramkund.
- Education: Upgradation of 53 municipal schools, new district library, and rejuvenation of government high schools.
- Healthcare: Robotic surgery and CT scans at cancer centres, new Homoeopathic College, and Animal Birth Control Centre.
- Sports & Law Enforcement: Synthetic hockey turf at Ambedkar Stadium, PAC multipurpose hall, and QRT barracks.
Commitment to Swadeshi and Vocal for Local
Citing global uncertainties, PM Modi reiterated the need for economic self-reliance. He urged citizens to embrace Swadeshi, promote Make in India, and prioritize Indian-made products during the festive season, calling it a true tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
Concluding with Unity and Vikas Vision
Calling upon all Indians to contribute to the dream of Viksit Bharat, PM Modi concluded by congratulating the people of Varanasi and farmers nationwide for the development works. UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan attended the event, with many others joining via videoconference.
