Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the people of Uttarakhand as the state entered its Silver Jubilee year on November 9, 2024, marking 25 years since its formation. Speaking at a special event to commemorate the occasion, he expressed pride in the state’s progress and reiterated his belief that the next decade would belong to Uttarakhand.
The Prime Minister outlined the state’s remarkable achievements, including its top ranking in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index and its status as a leader in the startup ecosystem. He highlighted the state’s growing economy, with significant increases in GST collection, per capita income, and industrial growth. Additionally, he praised Uttarakhand for its impressive progress in infrastructure, including the expansion of rural roads, water supply coverage, and healthcare access through initiatives like Ayushman Bharat.
PM Modi emphasized that the central government has doubled its assistance to Uttarakhand for development, with ongoing projects worth ₹2 lakh crore. He noted that major connectivity projects, such as the Rishikesh-Karnprayag Rail Project and the development of 11 railway stations, are progressing rapidly, which will further reduce travel time and boost tourism.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s focus on preserving the state’s cultural heritage, pointing to the grand reconstruction of Kedarnath Temple and the development of Badrinath Dham. He praised the ‘Vibrant Village’ initiative, which is improving border villages and creating new opportunities for tourism and employment in the region.
Underlining the state’s progressive policies, PM Modi pointed to Uttarakhand’s implementation of the Uniform Civil Code, which has sparked national discussion. He also mentioned the state’s anti-counterfeit law aimed at protecting the youth.
In a heartfelt address, PM Modi made nine requests to both the people of Uttarakhand and the tourists visiting the state. He urged citizens to preserve the state’s languages, conserve water bodies, and promote local traditions. For tourists, he emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness, supporting local businesses, and respecting religious sites.
Concluding his speech, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that Uttarakhand would play a key role in shaping India’s future, contributing significantly to the nation’s overall progress during the next phase of its development.
