PM inaugurates and lays foundation stones for development projects worth over ₹8,140 crore
“This is the defining era of Uttarakhand’s rise and progress,” says Prime Minister
Dehradun: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Silver Jubilee Celebration marking 25 years of the formation of Uttarakhand in Dehradun. On the occasion, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple development initiatives worth over ₹8,140 crore, spanning key sectors such as drinking water, irrigation, energy, education, urban development, and sports.
Extending greetings to the people of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, Modi said the state’s formation on November 9 was the result of a long and dedicated struggle and that today’s progress is a source of pride for all. “Seeing the heights Uttarakhand has reached today, it is natural for every person who once struggled for the creation of this beautiful state to feel happy,” he remarked, recalling the vision of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji’s government, under whose leadership Uttarakhand was formed 25 years ago.
Reflecting on the state’s remarkable growth, the Prime Minister noted that Uttarakhand’s budget has grown from ₹4,000 crore to over ₹1 lakh crore, electricity generation has quadrupled, and road networks have doubled. He also highlighted that the number of medical colleges has increased from one to ten, while vaccination coverage now reaches almost every village.
Declaring that “this is indeed the defining era of Uttarakhand’s rise and progress,” Modi emphasized that both the Centre and the State Governments are committed to unlocking the state’s immense potential. He inaugurated and laid the foundation stones of key projects, including the Song Dam Drinking Water Project in Dehradun and the Jamarani Dam Multipurpose Project in Nainital, which together will significantly enhance water supply, irrigation, and power generation.
The Prime Minister also announced direct financial support of ₹62 crore to more than 28,000 farmers under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana. He appreciated the Uttarakhand government’s initiative to provide digital currency subsidies to apple and kiwi farmers, describing it as a step toward transparent and technology-driven governance.
Calling Uttarakhand “the heartbeat of India’s spiritual life,” Shri Modi said the true identity of the state lies in its spiritual strength. He urged that the temples, ashrams, and yoga centers of Uttarakhand be connected to a global spiritual network, envisioning the state as a potential “Spiritual Capital of the World.” He further proposed that every constituency should have integrated yoga, Ayurveda, and naturopathy centers to boost wellness tourism.
Highlighting the growing popularity of eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and winter tourism, the Prime Minister pointed to the 17 lakh pilgrims who visited Kedarnath Dham this year and the 30,000 participants in the Adi Kailash Yatra, calling it a sign of Uttarakhand’s rising prominence in spiritual and nature-based travel.
Modi also praised Uttarakhand’s emergence as a film and wedding destination, encouraging the development of five to seven major venues under the “Wed in India” initiative. He highlighted the success of the “House of Himalayas” brand, which unites local products under one identity and helps them reach global markets through digital platforms.
Underscoring the spirit of “Vocal for Local”, he expressed pride that 15 agricultural products from Uttarakhand have received GI tags, including Bedu fruit and Badri cow ghee, which he described as “the pride of every mountain household.”
Praising Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s government for bold initiatives such as the Uniform Civil Code and decisive steps in disaster management and law enforcement, the Prime Minister said these policies exemplify Uttarakhand’s resolve and governance strength.
Concluding his address, Shri Modi expressed confidence that Uttarakhand will continue its journey of growth and cultural pride over the next 25 years. “If Uttarakhand resolves to do so, it can become the Spiritual Capital of the World,” he affirmed, extending his best wishes for the prosperity and bright future of every citizen of the state.
The event was graced by Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Gurmit Singh, Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, Union Minister Shri Ajay Tamta, and several other dignitaries.
During the programme, Prime Minister Modi launched a commemorative postal stamp to mark the occasion. He inaugurated projects worth ₹930 crore and laid the foundation stones of projects worth ₹7,210 crore, including Dehradun water supply projects, solar power plants, electrical substations, and a Women’s Sports College in Champawat.
