In a heartfelt and uplifting address delivered in Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated a host of development projects that aim to reshape not just the city, but the entire Purvanchal region. On the eve of Hanuman Janmotsav, the Prime Minister was welcomed by a sea of enthusiastic citizens, whose affection he acknowledged with deep gratitude, calling Kashi his own and expressing his emotional bond with the city.
Over the past decade, Varanasi—steeped in ancient heritage—has undergone a remarkable transformation. The Prime Minister emphasized how the city has managed to balance modern aspirations with its timeless traditions. Today, Kashi is not just a sacred symbol of India’s spiritual heart but also a growing hub of infrastructure, commerce, and cultural resurgence.
One of the key highlights of the day was the celebration of progress in the dairy sector. The Prime Minister applauded the success of Banas Dairy, which has empowered thousands of families, particularly women, by turning their efforts into sustainable income. Over ₹100 crore in bonus payments were distributed among cattle-rearing families—a gesture that not only honoured their hard work but recognized them as key partners in India’s rural economy. This has given rise to many “Lakhpati Didis,” women who now stand as proud contributors to their households and communities.
He drew inspiration from the legacy of social reformers Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule, underscoring their vision for women’s empowerment and equality—values that the government continues to uphold through various initiatives. The commitment to Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas remains the guiding force behind policies aimed at inclusive growth, in contrast to the politics of nepotism, he remarked.
Healthcare too has seen a meaningful leap. The Prime Minister personally handed out Ayushman Vay Vandana cards to senior citizens, describing it as a proud moment that reflected the success of compassionate governance. He recalled how, not too long ago, families were burdened by the cost of medical care. But now, under the Ayushman Bharat scheme and its recent expansion for those above 70, senior citizens across income levels are eligible for free treatment. In Varanasi alone, 50,000 such cards have already been issued—each representing a life less burdened by fear or financial strain.
On the infrastructure front, the transformation is equally visible. Varanasi’s roads, flyovers, ring roads, and airport facilities have not only eased travel but have revitalized commerce and daily life. From the Phulwaria flyover to the ambitious six-lane underground tunnel near the airport, each project is a step towards easing the struggles that once plagued daily commuters. A ropeway project, now under trial, is poised to place Kashi among a select group of global cities with such an innovative urban transport system.
In his address, the Prime Minister made it clear that development here is not just about concrete structures but about restoring dignity, creating opportunities, and building a future that includes everyone—farmers, youth, women, and the elderly alike. New stadiums, sports complexes, and talent development centres are being built with a dream of seeing India host the 2036 Olympics, with youth from Kashi among its medal contenders.
Cultural preservation and unity were also central themes. He celebrated initiatives like the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam and the upcoming Ekta Mall, which will showcase the rich diversity of India’s crafts and cultures under one roof. He proudly noted that Uttar Pradesh is now a national leader in Geographical Indication (GI) tags, giving global recognition to traditional products such as Varanasi’s tabla, thandai, red stuffed chillies, and Bundelkhand’s wheat, among others.
Above all, the Prime Minister’s speech was a moving tribute to the resilience, spirit, and aspirations of the people of Kashi. With each promise backed by visible action, his words resonated deeply with the audience, evoking both hope and pride.
As the sun sets on another day in the sacred city, the message was clear: development in Kashi is no longer a distant dream—it is a living, breathing reality shaped by the hands and hearts of its people. And in their journey, they are not alone. They walk with the support and resolve of a nation determined to rise together.
