Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the grand celebrations marking Uttarakhand’s 25th anniversary, or Silver Jubilee, of its formation in 2000. The event, held in Dehradun, highlighted the state’s journey from a Himalayan dream to a thriving hill state. Thousands gathered as PM Modi praised Uttarakhand’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and resilient spirit, calling it “Devbhoomi” – the land of gods.
In a major boost, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation for development projects worth over ₹8,000 crore. These initiatives focus on infrastructure, tourism, and sustainability to uplift the state’s 1.1 crore residents. Key projects include the ₹2,500 crore expansion of the Char Dham Highway, improving connectivity to sacred sites like Badrinath and Kedarnath, which attract over 50 lakh pilgrims annually. Another ₹1,800 crore goes to the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail link, set to cut travel time by 5 hours and boost tourism revenue by 20%.
PM Modi also launched ₹1,200 crore for eco-friendly hydropower plants along the Ganga, generating 500 MW of clean energy and creating 10,000 jobs. In agriculture, ₹1,000 crore supports organic farming in the Kumaon hills, benefiting 2 lakh farmers amid climate challenges. Health and education get ₹1,500 crore, including 50 new AIIMS-like centers and digital classrooms in remote villages.
Addressing the crowd, PM Modi said, “These projects will make Uttarakhand self-reliant and a model for Atmanirbhar Bharat.” The celebrations featured folk dances, cultural parades, and tributes to state heroes. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami thanked the PM, noting the state’s GDP growth from ₹50,000 crore in 2000 to ₹3.5 lakh crore today.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
-
What is Uttarakhand’s Silver Jubilee?
It marks 25 years since Uttarakhand became a separate state on November 9, 2000, carved from Uttar Pradesh. Celebrations highlight its growth in tourism, economy, and culture. -
What are the key development projects launched?
Projects worth ₹8,000 crore include highway expansions, rail links, hydropower plants, organic farming support, and health-education facilities to enhance connectivity and jobs. -
How will these projects benefit locals?
They aim to create 10,000+ jobs, boost tourism by 20%, improve infrastructure, and promote sustainable growth, helping 1.1 crore residents in remote Himalayan areas.