Shravasti: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of 83 development projects worth more than ₹396 crore in Shravasti, marking a major push for infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, education, and public welfare in the aspirational district.
The projects include 42 completed projects worth over ₹176 crore and 41 new projects with an estimated cost of more than ₹220 crore. During the programme, the Chief Minister also distributed symbolic cheques, housing keys, study kits, and Ayushman cards to beneficiaries.
He also visited an exhibition showcasing development initiatives, participated in the God Bharai ceremony for pregnant women and Annaprashan ceremony for children. A short film highlighting Shravasti’s development journey was also screened at the event.
Before the programme, CM Yogi offered prayers at the historic Sita Dwar Temple.
Shravasti’s Heritage and Natural Potential Getting New Development Momentum
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that Shravasti is known for its rich biodiversity, natural beauty, and spiritual heritage.
He highlighted that the district has a significant connection with Ramayana and Mahabharata-era traditions as well as Buddhist and Jain heritage. Despite its historical importance, the region did not receive adequate development for several decades.
The Chief Minister said that the talent of Shravasti’s youth, farmers, and artisans has always received recognition whenever they got proper opportunities and platforms.
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Railway, Airport and Four-Lane Connectivity Projects to Transform Shravasti
CM Yogi said that Shravasti remained without railway connectivity for nearly 75 years after independence. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Bahraich–Shravasti–Balrampur–Khalilabad railway line project has been approved and work is progressing rapidly.
He added that:
- An airport has been developed in Shravasti and expansion work is underway.
- Plans are being prepared to connect Shravasti through four-lane roads.
- Better road, rail, and air connectivity will create new opportunities for tourism, trade, and employment.
The Chief Minister said that major development projects are now becoming visible across the district.
Government Schemes Providing Housing, Healthcare and Basic Facilities
CM Yogi said that over the last nine years, Shravasti has achieved significant progress and moved towards becoming a developed district.
He highlighted various welfare initiatives, including:
- Housing support through Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana
- Toilet facilities under sanitation programmes
- Healthcare support through Ayushman Bharat and Mukhyamantri Jan Arogya Yojana
- Free ration benefits for eligible families
He said that across Uttar Pradesh:
- Around 16 crore people are receiving free ration benefits
- 65 lakh poor families have received houses
- Around 3 crore toilets have been built
- Nearly 2 crore families have received free LPG connections
- Around 9 lakh youths have received government jobs through transparent recruitment
Shravasti Moving From Aspirational District to Inspirational District
The Chief Minister said that Shravasti, once counted among the country’s most backward districts, is now moving towards becoming an “inspirational district.”
He stated that investment is no longer limited to the National Capital Region (NCR) and is reaching districts like Shravasti as well.
He highlighted initiatives such as:
- One District One Product (ODOP) promoting local industries
- Expansion of medical education under the “One District One Medical College” vision
- New opportunities in tourism, agriculture, and employment
He said that Shravasti is now moving ahead with improved infrastructure and a stronger identity.
Zero Tolerance Policy Against Crime Supporting Investment and Employment
CM Yogi reiterated that the state government follows a zero-tolerance policy against crime and criminals.
He said that a secure environment has encouraged investment in Uttar Pradesh and created more employment opportunities for youth. According to him, the ODOP initiative has helped develop new economic opportunities across the state by promoting traditional industries and local products.
Shravasti Development Block Ranks First Among 500 Aspirational Blocks
The Chief Minister said that Shravasti is witnessing rapid development after being connected with the mainstream growth journey of Uttar Pradesh.
He mentioned that one of Shravasti’s development blocks has secured the first position among 500 aspirational development blocks selected across the country.
Focus on Heritage and Development Along With New Infrastructure Projects
CM Yogi said that preserving heritage while promoting development is essential for creating a better future.
He highlighted upcoming connectivity projects, including:
- A new corridor connecting Shravasti, Balrampur, and Gonda towards Ayodhya through four-lane connectivity
- A proposed four-lane corridor between Bahraich and Lucknow with an estimated cost of ₹7,500 crore
- Efforts to connect Shravasti with the Bahraich-Lucknow corridor
He said these projects will strengthen tourism, trade, and mobility in the region.
Healthcare, Education and Employment Opportunities Expanding in the Region
The Chief Minister said that several major projects are progressing in nearby districts, including:
- Medical colleges in Bahraich, Gonda, and Balrampur
- Construction of a university named after Maa Pateshwari
- Development of a sports college
He added that highways, railway lines, and airport facilities are creating new possibilities for youth and businesses.
Women’s self-help groups are also being encouraged to become financially independent, while farmers are benefiting from improved agricultural initiatives.
Government Working to Establish New Development Standards in Shravasti
CM Yogi said that projects like the Saryu Canal National Project, which remained pending since the 1970s, have been completed under the current government.
He said the government aims to establish new development standards in Shravasti by creating a balance between heritage conservation and modern infrastructure.The programme was attended by MLA Ram Feran Pandey, Legislative Council members Saket Mishra and Pragya Tripathi, along with other dignitaries and officials.
