Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated several significant development projects in Varanasi today, marking a major milestone in the city’s ongoing transformation. Among the key projects launched were multiple airport initiatives worth over ₹6,100 crore, which promise to boost infrastructure and create job opportunities in the region.
Addressing a large gathering, PM Modi called the day an “auspicious occasion” for Kashi and mentioned the inauguration of the RJ Sankara Eye Hospital earlier in the day. The hospital is expected to provide critical eye care to the elderly and children in the region. He also highlighted the inauguration of new airport terminals in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, including Babatpur Airport in Varanasi and Sarsawa Airport in Agra and Saharanpur.
The Prime Minister emphasized the development projects in sectors such as education, skill development, sports, healthcare, and tourism, all of which will not only enhance services in Varanasi but also create a wealth of employment opportunities for the youth.
Referring to the recent Abhidhamma Diwas celebrations, Modi also touched upon the projects connected to the development of Sarnath, the site of Lord Buddha’s first sermon, including infrastructure improvements worth several crores. He took pride in granting Pali and Prakrit languages the status of classical languages, recognizing their importance in India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Progress and Infrastructure Development
Reaffirming his commitment to the people of Varanasi, PM Modi noted that in less than 125 days since the formation of the government, work on projects worth over ₹15 lakh crore had already begun. He stressed that the lion’s share of these projects is aimed at benefiting the poor, farmers, and youth. Highlighting a shift from past reports of scams, Modi said that today, the narrative centers around how public funds are being used for the country’s progress and the welfare of its citizens.
He also detailed the government’s comprehensive push for infrastructure development over the last decade, which has focused on improving services for the people while creating jobs through investments. The Prime Minister pointed to the construction of modern highways, new railway routes, and the development of airports as examples of projects that are not only enhancing convenience for citizens but also generating employment. He particularly mentioned the ongoing expansion of Babatpur Airport, which will soon handle more flights, thus boosting the region’s connectivity and economy.
India’s Expanding Airport Network
Lauding India’s rapidly growing airport network, Modi noted that in 2014, the country had only 70 airports, while today the number has more than doubled to over 150. He also referenced recent renovations at airports in Aligarh, Moradabad, Shravasti, and Chitrakoot, and spoke of the grand international airport in Ayodhya that now welcomes Ram devotees daily.
The Prime Minister credited Uttar Pradesh for its transformation, referring to the state as the “state of expressways,” with the most international airports in the country. A grand international airport is also set to be built soon in Jewar, Noida.
Transforming Kashi and Empowering the Youth
Expressing satisfaction with Varanasi’s progress, PM Modi reiterated his vision to make Kashi a model city of urban development, where modernity and heritage co-exist. He highlighted projects such as the Vishwanath Dham, the Rudraksh Convention Centre, and new infrastructure like the Ring Road and Ganjari Stadium. He also mentioned the city’s scenic wide roads and Ganga ghats, which have become popular attractions.
Focusing on Kashi’s potential in sports, Modi pointed to the revamped Sigra Stadium, which now includes facilities for national and Olympic-level competitions. He emphasized the importance of providing young athletes with the resources they need to succeed, citing the rise of talented players from Kashi and Purvanchal.
Empowering Women and Promoting Inclusive Growth
Highlighting the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, Modi mentioned schemes like Mudra Yojna, which has helped millions of women start their own businesses. The Prime Minister spoke of initiatives aimed at creating ‘Lakhpati Didis’ and the training of women as drone pilots, positioning women at the center of India’s progress.
He also reassured that the government is working to build an additional three crore houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, many of which will benefit women in Varanasi. In addition to providing essential services like piped water, Ujjwala gas, and electricity, the new PM Suryaghar Free Electricity Scheme will further ease the lives of women and enable them to earn from renewable energy initiatives.
Fostering Political Change Among Youth
PM Modi called on the youth to join his mission of bringing new talent into politics. He reiterated his desire to bring one lakh young individuals into the political arena, stressing that this will help fight dynastic politics and corruption, ultimately transforming India’s political landscape.
The Prime Minister concluded by congratulating the people of Kashi and other states for the development projects launched today, reinforcing his commitment to continue working for the betterment of the nation.
Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu were present at the event, among other dignitaries.
