Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development works worth around Rs 2,200 crore in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh today. Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi expressed heartfelt sentiments on meeting families from Varanasi during the auspicious month of Sawan. Highlighting his deep emotional connection with the people of Varanasi, Shri Modi offered his respectful greetings to every family member of the city. Shri Modi also expressed satisfaction of connecting with the farmers from across the country through videoconference during the auspicious month of Sawan. 

The Prime Minister stated that this was his first visit to Varanasi following Operation Sindoor. He recalled the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on 22 April, noting that 26 innocent people were brutally killed. Shri Modi further highlighted the immense pain felt by the victims’ families, especially the sorrow of the children and daughters affected by the tragedy. He remarked that his heart was deeply burdened with grief and  shared that during that time, he had prayed to Baba Vishwanath to grant strength to all the bereaved families to endure their suffering. The Prime Minister affirmed that the promise he had made—to avenge the sindoor of the daughters—had been fulfilled. He emphasized that this was made possible only through the blessings of Lord Mahadev and dedicated the success of Operation Sindoor at the feet of Lord Mahadev.

Sharing that in recent days, he had been observing divine images of Shiva devotees in Varanasi carrying Gangajal, especially on the first Monday of Sawan, when the pilgrims set out to perform the sacred Jalabhishek of Baba Vishwanath. He remarked on the captivating sight of Yadav brothers carrying Gangajal from Gauri Kedarnath on their shoulders, describing it as a truly enchanting scene. The sound of the damru, the vibrant energy in the lanes,he called the atmosphere extraordinary. Shri Modi expressed his personal desire to visit Baba Vishwanath and Markandeya Mahadev during the holy month of Sawan. However, he noted that his presence could cause inconvenience to Mahadev’s devotees or disrupt their darshan, hence offering his salutations to Lord Bholenath and Maa Ganga from here only.

Recalling his visit a few days ago to the historic Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple in Tamil Nadu, a thousand-year-old monument and an ancient center of the Shaiva tradition in India, Shri Modi noted that this temple was built by the renowned king Rajendra Chola, who had brought Gangajal from North India to symbolically unite the North and South. He highlighted that a thousand years ago, through his devotion to Lord Shiva and commitment to Shaivite tradition, Rajendra Chola had proclaimed the vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.” The Prime Minister remarked that today, through initiatives like Kashi-Tamil Sangamam, that legacy is being carried forward. He shared that during his recent visit to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, he had carried Gangajal with him, and with the blessings of Maa Ganga, the puja was conducted in a deeply sacred atmosphere. He stated that such eventful occasions ignite the spirit of unity in the country, leading to success of missions like Operation Sindoor. He added that the unity of 140 crore Indians became the strength of Operation Sindoor. 

Highlighting the grand celebration of the farmer festival being held in Varanasi, the Prime Minister announced that ₹21,000 crore had been transferred to the bank accounts of 10 crore farmer brothers and sisters across the country under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. He further informed that development projects worth over ₹2,000 crore had been inaugurated and their foundation stones laid during the event. Shri Modi remarked that, with Baba’s blessings, the uninterrupted stream of development continues to flow in Varanasi. He extended his congratulations to all present and to the farmers of the nation. The Prime Minister further mentioned that just a few days ago, Varanasi hosted the Member of Parliament Tourist Guide Competition. In the coming days, events such as the Kashi Member of Parliament Photography Competition and the Member of Parliament Employment Fair are also scheduled to take place, conveying his best wishes for the success of these initiatives. He also commended the administration for such initiatives.

Affirming that the government is consistently working towards the prosperity of farmers, Shri Modi contrasted this with previous governments, stating that even a single announcement made in the name of farmers was rarely fulfilled. He emphasized that their government delivers on its promises, citing the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi as a testament to the government’s firm commitment. 

Recalling that when the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi was launched in 2019, Shri Modi said that some major opposition parties were spreading various rumors, while some claimed that the payments would stop after elections and few others suggested that the money being transferred would be taken back. He remarked that this reflects the true nature of the opposition, which only misleads farmers and the people of the country. Enquiring whether even a single installment had ever been stopped, the Prime Minister asserted that the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi has continued without interruption. Till date, he mentioned that ₹3.75 lakh crore has been transferred directly into farmers’ accounts. In Uttar Pradesh alone, around 2.5 crore farmers have benefited, receiving over ₹90,000 crore under the scheme. Farmers in Varanasi have received nearly ₹900 crore, Shri Modi added. He highlighted that the most significant aspect of the scheme is that the funds have reached farmers without any deductions or commissions. He stated that this is a permanent arrangement established by his government—there will be no leakage, and the rights of the poor will not be denied.

Reiterating the development mantra, “the more backward a region, the higher the priority it receives”, Shri Modi announced that earlier this month, the Central Government approved a major new initiative—the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana. He informed that ₹24,000 crore will be allocated for this scheme. The Prime Minister emphasized that the focus of this initiative will be on districts that were left behind due to flawed policies of previous governments—areas with low agricultural output and where farmers’ incomes remain limited. He stated that the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana will directly benefit millions of farmers in Uttar Pradesh as well.

“Our government is working with full strength to transform the lives of farmers, increase their income, and reduce the cost of cultivation, We stand firmly with farmers from seed to market”, emphasised the Prime Minister, highlighting that to ensure water reaches the fields, irrigation schemes worth lakhs of crores of rupees are being implemented across the country. 

Shri Modi acknowledged that weather has always posed a major challenge for farmers—be it excessive rainfall, hailstorms, or frost. To protect farmers from such uncertainties, the government launched the PM Fasal Bima Yojana. He informed that under this scheme, farmers have received claim settlements amounting to over ₹1.75 lakh crore so far.

Affirming that the government is committed to ensuring farmers receive fair prices for their produce, the Prime Minister stated that record increases have been made in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of crops, including key staples like rice and wheat. To safeguard farmers’ harvests, the government is constructing thousands of new warehouses across the country, he added

Emphasising the government’s focus on increasing women’s participation in the agricultural economy, Shri Modi highlighted the “Lakhpati Didi” campaign, with a target of creating three crore Lakhpati Didis across India. He noted that over 1.5 crore women have already achieved this milestone. He also mentioned that the government’s “Drone Didi” initiative has significantly boosted the income of lakhs of women.

The Prime Minister stated that the government is actively working to bring modern agricultural research directly to the fields. He mentioned that a specially designed Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan was conducted during May and June 2025, under the guiding principle of “Lab to Land,” through which direct engagement was made with over 1.25 crore farmers. He emphasized that the benefits of Central Government schemes must continue reaching all citizens seamlessly. 

Sharing an important update with the public, Shri Modi said, “Under the Jan Dhan Yojana, 55 crore bank accounts have been opened for the poor across the country”. He informed that the scheme recently completed ten years and as per regulations, bank accounts require fresh KYC verification after ten years. He added that to fulfill this requirement, a nationwide campaign has been launched from 1st July 2025. The Prime Minister said that banks were reaching every gram panchayat, and camps have already been set up in nearly one lakh gram panchayats, while lakhs of people have successfully completed their KYC renewal. The Prime Minister urged every individual who holds a Jan Dhan account to ensure they complete their KYC process without delay.

Underlining an additional benefit of the special bank camps being organized in gram panchayats, Shri Modi stated that these camps are facilitating registrations for several key schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, and Atal Pension Yojana. He emphasized that these schemes offer significant support to citizens and urged everyone to visit these camps. He encouraged those who have not yet enrolled in these schemes to register and also complete the KYC process for their Jan Dhan accounts. The Prime Minister called upon all public representatives of their party to actively raise awareness about this campaign, assist banks in their outreach efforts, and ensure maximum participation from the public.

The Prime Minister remarked that today, in the city of Mahadev, numerous initiatives for development and public welfare have been undertaken. He reflected on the meaning of Shiva, stating that Shiva signifies “welfare,” but also embodies the fierce Rudra form when confronted with terror and injustice. Shri Modi asserted that during Operation Sindoor, the world witnessed this Rudra form of India,  declaring, “anyone who attacks India will not be spared, even in the depths of the underworld”. The Prime Minister expressed regret that despite the success of Operation Sindoor, some individuals within the country are troubled by it. He specifically pointed to the opposition and its allies, stating that they are unable to digest the fact that India destroyed terrorist bases in Pakistan. Shri Modi referred to visuals showing how Indian drones precisely targeted and reduced terrorist headquarters to ruins, adding that several Pakistani air bases remain in critical condition. The Prime Minister criticized the opposition party leaders, saying that while the masterminds of terror mourn on one side, these parties also mourn the condition of the terrorists on the other.

Strongly criticizing the opposition for repeatedly insulting the valor of India’s armed forces, Shri Modi stated that the opposition referred to Operation Sindoor as a “Tamasha” and questioned whether sindoor—the symbol of dignity and sacrifice—could ever be considered a spectacle. He asked whether the bravery of the armed forces and the fulfillment of a vow to avenge the sindoor of sisters could be trivialized in such a manner.

The Prime Minister further condemned the opposition for engaging in vote-bank and appeasement politics. He cited statements made by opposition leaders in Parliament, questioning why the terrorists in Pahalgam were eliminated promptly. Shri Modi asked whether India should wait before acting against terrorists. He reminded the public that these are the same individuals who, during their tenure in Uttar Pradesh, gave clean chits to terrorists and withdrew cases against those involved in bomb blasts. He remarked that now these parties are troubled by the elimination of terrorists and by the very name of Operation Sindoor. From the sacred soil of Varanasi, the Prime Minister declared that this is a new India—one that worships Lord Bholenath and also knows how to become Kaal Bhairav in the face of the nation’s enemies.

“During Operation Sindoor, the world witnessed the power of India’s indigenous weaponry and the effectiveness of India’s air defense systems, indigenous missiles, and drones, which demonstrated the strength of an Atmanirbhar Bharat”, said the Prime Minister. He specifically emphasized the impact of India’s BrahMos missiles, noting that their presence has instilled fear in every enemy of the nation. 

As a Member of Parliament from Uttar Pradesh, Shri Modi expressed pride that BrahMos missiles will soon be manufactured in the state. He announced that production of BrahMos missiles is beginning in Lucknow, and several major defense companies are setting up plants in the Uttar Pradesh Defence Corridor. He affirmed that in the coming years, weapons manufactured in Uttar Pradesh will become a vital part of India’s military strength. The Prime Minister asked the public whether they feel proud of this achievement. He declared that if Pakistan commits another misdeed, missiles made in Uttar Pradesh will destroy the terrorists.

Underscoring that Uttar Pradesh is undergoing rapid industrial development, attracting major national and international companies to invest in the state, Shri Modi credited the development-oriented policies of their government for this transformation. He contrasted the current scenario with the previous regime, where criminals operated fearlessly and investors were hesitant to enter the state. He emphasized that under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s leadership, criminals are now fearful, and investors are expressing confidence in Uttar Pradesh’s future. The Prime Minister congratulated the Uttar Pradesh government for this pace of development, expressing satisfaction that the grand campaign of development in Varanasi continues unabated.

Outlining several projects launched today, including a new rail overbridge, initiatives under the Jal Jeevan Mission, reconstruction of schools in Varanasi, construction of a homeopathic college, and efforts to preserve the legacy of Munshi Premchand, Shri Modi stated that these projects will accelerate the creation of a grand, divine, and prosperous Varanasi. He remarked that visiting Sevapuri is a matter of fortune, describing it as the threshold of Maa Kalka Devi. He offered his salutations at her feet and expressed happiness that the government has beautified Maa Kalka Dham, making it more magnificent and improving access to the temple. The Prime Minister recalled Sevapuri’s revolutionary history, noting its significant contribution to the freedom struggle. He highlighted that this is the very Sevapuri where Mahatma Gandhi’s vision came to life, with spinning wheels in the hands of men and women in every household. Shri Modi also pointed out a meaningful coincidence: through projects like the Chandpur–Bhadohi Road, the weavers of Varanasi are now being connected with those of Bhadohi. This, he said, will benefit both the artisans of Banarasi silk and the craftsmen of Bhadohi.

“Varanasi is a city of intellectuals”, exclaimed Shri Modi, while discussing economic progress, drawing attention to the prevailing global conditions. He highlighted that the global economy is currently facing multiple uncertainties and an atmosphere of instability. In such a scenario, nations across the world are focusing on their own interests. The Prime Minister stated that India is on the path to becoming the world’s third-largest economy. Therefore, he added, India must remain vigilant about its economic interests. He emphasized that the welfare of farmers and small industries is paramount and the government is making every possible effort in this direction. 

Underscoring that citizens also have certain responsibilities, the Prime Minister urged everyone to take a pledge for Swadeshi. He defined Swadeshi as anything made with the sweat and effort of an Indian, calling upon the nation to adopt the mantra of “Vocal for Local.” The Prime Minister urged citizens to pledge to promote “Make in India” products. He stated that every new item entering our homes must be Swadeshi, and this responsibility must be embraced by every Indian. Shri Modi appealed to every trader and shopkeeper to take a vow to sell only Swadeshi products, affirming that this would be true service to the nation. He urged the people to use Swadeshi products in the upcoming festival season and added that this would be a true tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.

The Prime Minister concluded by emphasising that the dream of a developed India will be fulfilled only through collective effort. He once again extended congratulations for the development works inaugurated today.

The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath was present among other dignitaries at the event. Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan along with Governors, Chief Ministers, Union and State ministers along with other dignitaries joined the event via videoconferencing.

Background

The projects cater to multiple sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, tourism, urban development and cultural heritage aim at achieving holistic urban transformation, cultural rejuvenation, improved connectivity, and enhanced quality of life in Varanasi.

In line with his commitment to improve road connectivity in Varanasi, Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of several key infrastructure projects. He will inaugurate the widening and strengthening of the Varanasi - Bhadohi road and Chhitauni- Shool Tankeshwar road; and Railway Overbridge at Hardattpur, to ease congestion on the Mohan Sarai - Adalpura Road. He laid the foundation stone for comprehensive road widening and strengthening across multiple rural and urban corridors, including Dalmandi, Lahartara-Kotwa, Gangapur, Babatpur among others and Railway Overbridges at Level Crossing 22C and Khalispur Yard.

Strengthening the power infrastructure in the region, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of various works under the Smart Distribution Project and undergrounding of electrical infrastructure worth over Rs 880 crore.

In a major boost to tourism, Prime Minister inaugurated the redevelopment of 8 riverfront Kuccha Ghats, development works at Kalika Dham, beautification of the pond and ghat at Rangildas Kutiya, Shivpur, and the restoration and water purification of Durgakund. He laid the foundation stone for restoration work at Kardameshwar Mahadev Temple; development of Karkhiyaon, the birthplace of several freedom fighters; City Facility Centres at Sarnath, Rishi Mandvi, and Ramnagar Zones; redevelopment of Munshi Premchand’s ancestral house in Lamahi and upgradation of museum among others. He also laid the foundation stone for development of an Urban Miyawaki Forest at Kanchanpur and for the redevelopment and beautification of Shaheed Udyan and 21 other parks.

In addition, to preserve culturally significant water bodies, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for water purification and maintenance works at various kunds including Ramkund, Mandakini, Shankuldhara and others, along with the installation of four floating pujan platforms. To ensure access to potable water in rural areas, Prime Minister also inaugurated 47 Rural Drinking Water Schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission.

Furthering his vision of quality education for all, Prime Minister inaugurated the upgradation of 53 school buildings within the municipal boundary. He also laid the foundation stone for several educational projects, including the construction of a new district library and rejuvenation of Government High Schools at Jakhini, Lalpur among others.

In a major boost to health infrastructure, Prime Minister inaugurated advanced medical equipment installations, including robotic surgery and CT scan facilities, at Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya Cancer Centre and Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital. He also laid the foundation stone of a Homoeopathic College and Hospital. Further, he inaugurated an Animal Birth Control Centre and associated Dog Care Centre.

Furthering his vision for world class sports infrastructure in Varanasi, Prime Minister inaugurated a synthetic hockey turf at Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Sports Stadium. Enhancing facilities for law enforcement personnel, Prime Minister inaugurated a 300-capacity Multipurpose Hall at Pradeshik Armed Constabulary (PAC) Ramnagar and laid the foundation stone for Quick Response Team (QRT) Barracks. 

In a significant step towards farmer welfare, Prime Minister released the 20th instalment of PM-KISAN. An amount of more than Rs 20,500 crore will be transferred directly to the bank accounts of over 9.7 crore farmers across the country. With this release, the total disbursement under the scheme since its inception will surpass Rs 3.90 lakh crore.

Prime Minister also inaugurated the registration portal for various events and competitions under the Kashi Sansad Pratiyogita, including Sketching Competition, Painting Competition, Photography Competition, Khel-Kood Pratiyogita, Gyan Pratiyogita, and the Rojgar Mela. Prime Minister also distributed more than 7,400 assistive aids to various Divyangjan and Elderly beneficiaries.

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MJPS/SR