A parliamentary delegation from Norway meets with BJP National President

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A parliamentary delegation from Norway met with Hon’ble Bharatiya Janata Party National President Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda today on Monday at BJP Headquarters in New Delhi.

During the discussion, Shri Nadda detailed the party’s organisational framework and grassroots initiatives. They explored strategies to strengthen inter-party engagement, with Shri Nadda providing insights into BJP’s working, vision, and contributions to India’s advancement. Shri Nadda also briefed them about BJP’s election campaign process for upcoming Lok sabha elections.

The delegation consisted of Parliamentarians from various political parties of Norway. Ms Åslaug Sem-Jacobsen, Member of Parliament, Centre party, is leading the delegation. The other members are-

  • Ms Erna Solberg, Member of Parliament, Former PM of Norway (Conservative Party)
  • Mr Truls Vasvik, Member of Parliament (Labour Party)
  • Mr Sverre Myrli, Member of Parliament (Labour Party)
  • Ms Grete Wold, Member of Parliament (Socialist Left Party)
  • Ms Margrethe Saxegaard, Parliament Secretariat
  • Ms Ingrid Hødnebø, Parliament Secretariat

The delegation was accompanied by HE May-Elin Stener, Ambassador of Norway to India. Dr Vijay Chauthaiwale, In-charge, foreign affairs department of BJP also joined the discussion.

The meeting was part of the KNOW BJP initiative which was launched by BJP National President Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda on the 43rd foundation day of BJP.

Union Home Minister lays foundation stone of 53 different projects worth Rs 2448 crore in Silvassa

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Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah inaugurated and laid foundation stone of 53 different projects worth about Rs 2448 crore and addressed the Labharthi Sammelan in Daman & Diu’s Silvassa today. On this occasion, many dignitaries including the Administrator of Daman and Diu, Shri Praful Patel and the Union Home Secretary were present.

Shri Amit Shah began his address by paying tribute to Veer Savarkar on his death anniversary. He said that Veer Savarkar lived his entire life to liberate India and show the right path to the country. He said that great personalities like Veer Savarkar are born once in thousand years.

The Union Home Minister said that today 10 projects of Daman at a cost of Rs 191 crore, 10 projects worth Rs 340 crore at Diu and 33 projects at Dadra and Nagar Haveli at a cost of Rs 1916 crore are being inaugurated and their bhoomi pujan being done. He said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has started so many development projects in the last 10 years that the list for such projects will be very long.

Shri Amit Shah said that in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, about 100 crore people of the country will exercise their franchise and elect a new government. He said that Modi ji’s guarantee means the promise of 100 percent completion of the work. He said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has provided basic amenities to crores of Dalits, tribals, poor and backward people of the country.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that we had promised the people of the country that we would build a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya and Prime Minister Modi consecrated Ram Lalla there on 22nd January this year. We had promised to abolish Article 370 from Kashmir and Modi ji get Kashmir rid of Article 370 on 05th August, 2019. Shri Shah said that Modi ji has brought an end to Naxalism, terrorism and extremism in the country. Prime Minister Modi also fulfilled the promise of One Rank, One Pension for the army personnel. Modi ji gave 33 percent reservation to women in Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies. Shri Shah said that along with abolishing triple talaq, Modi ji has done several other significant works in the country.

Shri Amit Shah said that now when the country is going to elections very soon, people of the country have two options – the leadership of Narendra Modi ji filled with patriotism and an alliance of 7 dynastic parties. He said that the people of the country have to decide whether they want the rule of Modi ji who made India the 5th largest economy in the world or those who committed scams worth Rs 12 lakh crore. Shri Shah said that only Shri Narendra Modi can do good for the people of India. Shri Shah said that this is an association of corrupt, dynastic, 2G, 3G and 4G scammers who do not give a chance to anyone else. He said that a son like Shri Narendra Modi, born to a poor mother, is today getting accolades for Mother India all over the world and this is the beauty of democracy.

Union Home Minister said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi made a tribal woman, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, and honoured the backward community by giving constitutional status to the OBC Commission. Modi ji made the Dalits of the country proud by making Panchteerth of Baba Saheb. Shri Shah said that the next decade belongs to India and under the leadership of Modi ji, we will become a 5 trillion US dollar economy and the third largest economy in the world by 2027. He said that Modi ji has set a target of 2 trillion US dollar exports by 2030, building India’s own space station in space by 2035, in 2036 we will host the Olympic Games and in 2040 we will make the country proud by sending an Indian to the Moon with the tricolor. Shri Shah said that in line with Modi ji’s vision, we will build a fully developed and self-reliant India by 2047 and make Mother India a world leader.

Shri Amit Shah said that Shri Narendra Modi ji has amended the three British-era criminal laws. He said that Shri Praful Patel has done the development work here in just 5 years which the previous governments could not do even in 70 years.

PM to visit Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra on 27-28 February

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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will visit Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra on 27-28 February, 2024.

On 27th February, at around 10:45 AM, Prime Minister will visit Vikram Sarabhai Space centre (VSSC) at Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. At around 5:15 PM, Prime Minister will participate in the programme ‘Creating the Future – Digital Mobility for Automotive MSME Entrepreneurs’ in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.

On 28th February, at around 9:45 AM, Prime Minister will inaugurate, and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth about Rs 17,300 crore at Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. At around 4:30 PM, Prime Minister will participate in a public programme in Yavatmal, Maharashtra, and inaugurate and dedicate to nation multiple development projects worth more than Rs 4900 crore at Yavatmal, Maharashtra. He will also release benefits under PM KISAN and other schemes during the programme.

PM in Kerala

Prime Minister’s vision to reform the country’s space sector to realise its full potential, and his commitment to enhance technical and R&D capability in the sector will get a boost as three important space infrastructure projects will be inaugurated during his visit to Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram. The projects include the PSLV Integration Facility (PIF) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota; new ‘Semi-cryogenics Integrated Engine and stage Test facility’ at ISRO Propulsion Complex at Mahendragiri; and ‘Trisonic Wind Tunnel’ at VSSC, Thiruvananthapuram. These three projects providing world-class technical facilities for the space sector have been developed at a cumulative cost of about Rs. 1800 crore.

The PSLV Integration Facility (PIF) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota will help in boosting the frequency of PSLV launches from 6 to 15 per year. This state-of-the-art facility can also cater to the launches of SSLV and other small launch vehicles designed by private space companies.

The new ‘Semi-cryogenics Integrated Engine and stage Test facility’ at IPRC Mahendragiri will enable development of semi cryogenic engines and stages which will increase the payload capability of the present launch vehicles. The facility is equipped with liquid Oxygen and kerosene supply systems to test engines up to 200 tons of thrust.

Wind tunnels are essential for aerodynamic testing for characterisation of rockets and aircraft during flight in the atmospheric regime. The “Trisonic Wind Tunnel” at VSSC being inaugurated is a complex technological system which will serve our future technology development needs.

During his visit, Prime Minister will also review the progress of Gaganyaan Mission and bestow ‘astronaut wings’ to the astronaut-designates.  The Gaganyaan Mission is India’s first human space flight program for which extensive preparations are underway at various ISRO centres.

PM in Tamil Nadu

In Madurai, Prime Minister will participate in the programme ‘Creating the Future – Digital Mobility for Automotive MSME Entrepreneurs’, and address thousands of Micro, Small and Medium enterprises (MSMEs) entrepreneurs working in the automotive sector. Prime Minister will also launch two major initiatives designed to support and uplift MSMEs in the Indian automotive industry. The initiatives include the TVS Open Mobility Platform and the TVS Mobility-CII Centre of Excellence. These initiatives will be a step towards realising the Prime Minister’s vision of supporting  the growth of MSMEs in the country and helping them to formalise operations, integrate with global value chains and become self-reliant.

In the public programme at Thoothukudi, Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of Outer Harbor Container Terminal at V.O.Chidambaranar Port. This Container Terminal is a step towards transforming V.O.Chidambaranar Port into a transshipment hub for the east coast. The project aims to leverage India’s long coastline and favourable geographic location, and strengthen India’s competitiveness in the global trade arena. The major infrastructure project will also lead to creation of employment generation and economic growth in the region.

Prime Minister will inaugurate various other projects aimed at making the V.O.Chidambaranar Port as the first Green Hydrogen Hub Port of the country. These projects include desalination plant, hydrogen production and bunkering facility etc.

Prime Minister will also launch India’s first indigenous green hydrogen fuel cell inland waterway vessel under Harit Nauka initiative. The vessel is manufactured by Cochin Shipyard and underscores a pioneering step for embracing clean energy solutions and aligning with the nation’s net-zero commitments. Also, Prime Minister will also dedicate tourist facilities in 75 lighthouses across ten States/UTs during the programme.

During the programme, Prime Minister will dedicate to nation rail projects for doubling of Vanchi Maniyachchi – Nagercoil rail line including the Vanchi Maniyachchi – Tirunelveli section and Melappalayam – Aralvaymoli section. Developed at the cost of about Rs 1,477 crore, the doubling project will help in reducing travel time for the trains heading towards Chennai from Kanyakumari, Nagercoil & Tirunelveli.

Prime Minister will also dedicate four road projects in Tamil Nadu, developed at a total cost of about Rs 4,586 Crore. These projects include the four-laning of the Jittandahalli-Dharmapuri section of NH-844, two-laning with paved shoulders of the Meensurutti-Chidambaram section of NH-81, four-laning of the Oddanchatram-Madathukulam section of NH-83, and two-laning with paved shoulders of the Nagapattinam-Thanjavur section of NH-83. These projects aim to improve connectivity, reduce travel time, enhance socio-economic growth and facilitate pilgrimage visits in the region.

PM in Maharashtra

In a step that will showcase yet another example of commitment of the Prime Minister towards welfare of farmers, the 16th instalment amount of more than Rs 21,000 crores under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN), will be released at the public programme in Yavatmal, through direct benefits transfer to beneficiaries. With this release, an amount of more than 3 lakh crore, has been transferred to more than 11 crore farmers’ families.

Prime Minister will also disburse 2nd and 3rd instalments of ‘Namo Shetkari MahaSanman Nidhi’, worth about Rs 3800 crore and benefiting about 88 lakh beneficiary farmers across Maharashtra. The scheme provides an additional amount of Rs 6000 per year to the beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana in Maharashtra.

Prime Minister will disburse Rs 825 crore of Revolving Fund to 5.5 lakh women Self Help Groups (SHGs) across Maharashtra. This amount is additional to the Revolving fund provided by the Government of India under National rural livelihood Mission (NRLM). Revolving Fund (RF) is given to SHGs to promote lending of money within SHGs by rotational basis and increase annual income of poor households by promoting women led micro enterprises at village level.

Prime Minister will initiate distribution of one crore Ayushman cards across Maharashtra. This is yet another step to reach out to beneficiaries of welfare schemes so as to realise the Prime Minister’s vision of 100 percent saturation of all government schemes.

Prime Minister will launch the Modi Awaas Gharkul Yojana for OBC category beneficiaries in Maharashtra. The scheme envisages the construction of a total 10 lakh houses from FY 2023-24 to FY 2025-26. Prime Minister will transfer the first instalment of Rs 375 Crore to 2.5 lakh beneficiaries of the Yojana.

Prime Minister will dedicate to nation multiple irrigation projects benefiting Marathwada and Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. These projects are developed at a cumulative cost of more than Rs 2750 crore under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojna (PMKSY) and Baliraja Jal Sanjeevani Yojana (BJSY).

Prime Minister will also inaugurate multiple rail projects worth more than Rs. 1300 crore in Maharashtra. The projects include Wardha-Kalamb broad gauge line (part of Wardha-Yavatmal-Nanded new broad gauge line project) and  New Ashti – Amalner broad gauge line (part of Ahmednagar-Beed-Parli new broad gauge line project). The new broad gauge lines will improve connectivity of the Vidarbha and Marathwada regions and boost socio-economic development. Prime Minister will also virtually flag off two train service during the programme. This includes train services connecting Kalamb and Wardha; and train service connecting Amalner and New Ashti. This new train service will help improve rail connectivity and benefit students, traders and daily commuters of the region.

Prime Minister will dedicate to nation several projects for strengthening the road sector in Maharashtra. The projects include four laning of the Warora-Wani section of NH-930; road upgradation projects for important roads connecting Sakoli-Bhandara and Salaikhurd-Tirora. These projects will improve connectivity, reduce travel time and boost socio-economic development in the region. Prime Minister will also inaugurate the statue of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay in Yavatmal city.

PM lays foundation stone and dedicates to nation multiple development projects worth more than Rs 4150 crores in Dwarka, Gujarat

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth more than Rs 4150 crores in Dwarka, Gujarat today. The Prime Minister dedicated to the nation Sudarshan Setu connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka, pipeline project at Vadinar and Rajkot-Okha, Rajkot-Jetalsar-Somnath and Jetalsar-Wansjaliya Rail Electrification projects. He laid the foundation stone for the widening of Dhoraji-Jamkandorna-Kalavad section of NH-927, Regional Science Center at Jamnagar and Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD) system installation at Sikka Thermal Power Station, Jamnagar.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister bowed to the land of Lord Krishna Dwarka Mai, where he is placed as Dwarkadheesh. He recalled the prayers that he offered this morning at the temple and underlined the deep importance of the teerth in the religious life of the nation As Aadi Shankaracharya established one of the four ‘peeths’ i.e. Sharda peet. He also mentioned the glory of Nageshwar Jyotirling, Rukmani Devi Mandir. He also remembered his recent opportunities to visit many places of faith in the course of ‘Rashtra Kaaj’. The Prime Minister talked about the unforgettable moment when today he went down the depths of the sea to offer prayers at the submerged city of Dwarka. The Prime Minister dwelled on the archaeological and scriptural importance. He mentioned the belief that the Dwarka was constructed by Bhagwan Vishwakarma himself. The City of Dwarka, the Prime Minister said, was an example of great town planning. “As I descended to the submerged city a sense of grandeur of divinity engulfed me. I offered my prayers and I offered peacock feathers which I had carried with me. This was a fullfilment of the desire that was there for years. Since the time I heard about the submerged city of Dwarka, I always wanted to go and have Darshan”, the Prime Minister said, overwhelmed with the divine experience. Emphasizing that visuals of India’s potential in the 21st century kept appearing before him when he was offering prayers at the submerged city of Dwarka, the Prime Minister said it has further strengthened his resolve for the creation of a Viksit Bharat.

The Prime Minister mentioned inaugurating Sudarshan Setu earlier in the day and recalled laying its foundation stone 6 years ago. He informed that the bridge will connect Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka island, thereby increasing connectivity for Dwarkadheesh’s darshan while also adding to the divinity of the region. Highlighting the confidence to inaugurate the projects whose foundation stone was laid by the Prime Minister himself, he said, “This is Modi’s guarantee.” Terming Sudarshan Setu an engineering marvel, the Prime Minister called upon the engineering fraternity to analyze the bridge and its technicalities as he congratulated the citizens on the inauguration.

Highlighting the difficulties faced by the citizens of Dwarka and Beyt Dwarka due to dependence on ferries and long road travels while also being troubled by the closure of ferry services during high tides, the Prime Minister recalled the people’s request for a bridge during his time as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. He expressed delight that the work taken up by present Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel has been accomplished and lauded his resolve.

PM Modi pointed out that his constant requests for sanctioning the bridge to the then central government kept getting denied and thanked his fortunes for finally getting the work done today. “With the blessings of Lord Shri Krishna, I followed his directions and fulfilled my responsibility”, an elated Prime Minister said. He drew attention to the fact that the electricity consumption for lighting the bridge will be generated from the solar panels fitted to it. He informed that Sudarshan Setu has a total of 12 tourist galleries giving an expansive view of the ocean. “I visited these galleries today and it is indeed Sudarshaniya”, PM Modi added.

The Prime Minister praised the commitment of the people of Dwarka towards the Swachhta Mission and asked them to maintain the level of cleanliness that is getting worldwide attention.

Recalling opposition to his guarantee of New India, the Prime Minister said that people are seeing the emergence of New India right in front of their eyes.  He said that this was not accomplished earlier due to a lack of political will and unwillingness to help the poor due to selfish considerations of dynasty politics. This kept the size of the economy small for the grand goals of a Viksit Bharat, he said. He also criticized recurring scams that used to take place during earlier regimes.

The Prime Minister recalled his promise of not letting anyone loot the country when he was elected to power in 2014. “Scams worth thousands of crores which used to take place during the previous governments have all been stopped now”, he remarked, underlining that the nation has leapfrogged to become the 5th largest economy in 10 years. As a result, the Prime Minister said, one can witness the reemergence of places of divine faith and pilgrimage on one hand while the development of new India through mega projects on the other. He gave examples of the Sudarshan Setu, India’s longest cable-based in Gujarat, the country’s longest sea bridge in Mumbai, the magnificent bridge built on Chenab in Jammu and Kashmir, the under-construction New Pamban Bridge which is India’s first vertical lift bridge in Tamil Nadu and India’s longest river bridge in Assam. “Such modern connectivity is the way to build a prosperous and strong nation”, he added.

Highlighting the importance of connectivity for the growth of tourism in the country, the Prime Minister illustrated the point by elaborating Gujarat becoming a hub of tourism due to improved connectivity. Talking about the new attraction of Gujarat, the Prime Minister said that today, there are 22 sanctuaries and 4 national parks in Gujarat. Thousands of years old port city Lothal is discussed all over the world. Today Ahmedabad city, Rani Ki Vav, Champaner and Dholavira have become World Heritage. Shivrajpuri is a blue flag beach in Dwarka. Asia’s longest ropeway is in Girnar. Gir forest is the only habitat of the Asiatic Lion. The World’s tallest statue, Sardar Saheb’s Statue of Unity is in Ekta Nagar. Today a fair of tourists from all over the world are organized during Ranotsav. Dhordo village of Kutch is counted among the best tourist villages in the world. Nadabet is becoming an important center of patriotism and tourism.

He pointed out that in line with the mantra of ‘Vikas bhi Virasat bhi’, centers of faith are being upgraded. Facilities have been developed in all important pilgrimage sites such as Dwarka, Somnath, Pavagadh, Modhera and Ambaji. He said every fifth tourist that visited India visited Gujarat.  Last year about 15.5 lakh tourists came to Gujarat till August. e-Visa facilities are also bringing tourists to Gujarat, he said.

“Land of Saurashtra is a huge example of accomplishment through resolve”, the Prime Minister said, emphasizing how every visit to the region instills new energy. Recalling the tough times when the people of Saurashtra yearned for every drop of water and were forced to migrate, the Prime Minister threw light on SAUNI Yojana which commissioned the laying of pipelines for 1300 kilometers for water supply to hundreds of villages in Saurashtra for irrigation and drinking. Concluding the address, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that the entire region of Saurashtra along with Gujarat, will reach new heights of success in the coming years. “Blessings of Dwarkadhish are upon us. Together we will make Viksit Saurashtra and Viksit Gujarat”, PM Modi concluded.

Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel and Member of Parliament, Shri C R Patil were present on the occasion among others.

Background

 

The Prime Minister dedicated to the nation, Sudarshan Setu connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka island built at a cost of around Rs. 980 crores. It is the longest Cable-stayed bridge in the country around 2.32 Km.

Sudarshan Setu boasts a unique design, featuring a footpath adorned with verses from Shrimad Bhagavad Gita and images of Bhagwan Krishna on both sides. It also has solar panels installed on the upper portions of the footpath, generating one megawatt of electricity.  This bridge will ease transportation and significantly reduce the time of devotees travelling between Dwarka and Beyt-Dwarka. Before the bridge’s construction, pilgrims had to rely on boat transport to reach Beyt Dwarka. This iconic bridge will also be a major tourist attraction of Devbhumi Dwarka.

The Prime Minister dedicated pipeline project at Vadinar involving the replacement of existing offshore lines, abandoning the existing Pipeline End Manifold (PLEM), and relocating the entire system (pipelines, the PLEMs and the interconnecting loop line) at a nearby new location. The Prime Minister also dedicated Rajkot-Okha, Rajkot-Jetalsar-Somnath and Jetalsar-Wansjaliya Rail Electrification projects to the nation.

The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the widening of Dhoraji-Jamkandorna-Kalavad section of NH-927D; Regional Science Center at Jamnagar; Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD) system installation at Sikka Thermal Power Station, Jamnagar among others

PM Modi offers prayers at submerged city of Dwarka

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra  Modi went underwater, in the deep sea and prayed at the site where the submerged city of Dwarka is. This experience offered a rare and profound connection to India’s spiritual and historical roots.

PM Modi paid homage to Dwarka, a city that continues to captivate imaginations with its rich cultural and spiritual legacy. Underwater, He offered peacock feathers also as tribute.

The Prime Minister posted on X:

“To pray in the city of Dwarka, which is immersed in the waters, was a very divine experience. I felt connected to an ancient era of spiritual grandeur and timeless devotion. May Bhagwan Shri Krishna bless us all.”

PM inaugurates Sudarshan Setu connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka island in Gujarat

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated Sudarshan Setu which connects Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka island, built at a cost of around Rs. 980 crores. It is the longest Cable-stayed bridge in the country of around 2.32 Km.

The Prime Minister posted on X:

“Sudarshan Setu connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka island built at a cost of around Rs. 980 crores. It is the longest Cable-stayed bridge in the country of around 2.32 Km.”

“Stunning Sudarshan Setu!”

Background

Sudarshan Setu boasts a unique design, featuring a footpath adorned with verses from Shrimad Bhagavad Gita and images of Bhagwan Krishna on both sides. It also has solar panels installed on the upper portions of the footpath, generating one megawatt of electricity.  This bridge will ease the transportation and significantly reduce the time of devotees travelling between Dwarka and Beyt-Dwarka. Before the bridge’s construction, pilgrims had to rely on boat transport to reach Beyt Dwarka. This iconic bridge will also serve as a major tourist attraction of Devbhumi Dwarka.

The Prime Minister was accompanied by Governor of Gujarat, Shri Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel and Member of Parliament, Shri C R Patil.

PM’s address in the 110th Episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’

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My dear countrymen, Namaskar. Welcome to the 110th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’. As always, this time too we have received a lot of your suggestions, inputs and comments. And like always, this time as well, selecting topics to be included in the episode, is a challenge. I have received many an input, one better than the other, full of positivity. These comprise due mention of many countrymen who are striving to improve the lives of others by becoming a ray of hope for them.

Friends, just after a few days on the 8th of March, we will celebrate ‘Women’s Day’. This special day is an opportunity to salute the contribution of woman power in the developmental journey of the country. Mahakavi Bharatiyar ji has said that the world will prosper only when women get equal opportunities. Today the woman power of India is touching new heights of progress in every field. Who would have thought till a few years ago that in our country, women living in villages too would fly drones? But today this is becoming possible. Today there is so much discussion about Drone Didi in every village… “Namo Drone Didi, Namo Drone Didi”, adorns everyone’s lips. Everyone is talking about them. A big curiosity has arisen and that is why, I also thought that this time in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, why not talk to a NaMo Drone Didi! Namo Drone Didi Sunita ji, who’s from Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh, is at the moment connected with us. Let’s speak to her.

Call-1.

Modi ji: Sunita Devi ji, Namaskar.

Sunita Devi: Namaste Sir.

Modi ji: Okay Sunita ji, at the outset, I wish to know about you; I want to know about your family. Tell me a bit.

Sunita Devi: Sir, there are two children in our family, I’m there, husband is there; my mother is there.

Modi ji: What has your education been Sunita ji?

Sunita Devi: Sir, it is BA (Final).

Modi ji: And what is the nature of work in the household?

Sunita Devi: Work related to agriculture, farming etc.

Modi ji: Okay Sunita ji, how did your journey of becoming a Drone Didi start? Where did you get the training, what kind of changes took place; I want to know, right from the beginning.

Sunita Devi: Ji Sir, the training was done in our Phulpur IFFCO company in Allahabad… and we got training there itself.

Modi ji: So till then had you ever heard about drones?

Sunita Devi: Sir, I had not heard about that… though we had seen once, at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Sitapur… we had seen it there… for the first time we had seen a drone there.

Modi ji: Sunita ji, I want to understand that right since you went there on the first day.

Modi ji: You must have been shown a drone on the first day… then something must have been taught to you on the board; taught on paper, then taken to the field for practice… what all must have happened! Can you explain to me with complete description?

Sunita Devi: Ji-Ji Sir. On the first day sir we all went there… our training started from the second day. First the theory was taught and then the class went on for two days. In the class, what are the parts of a drone, how and what you have to do – all these things were taught in theory. On the third day, sir, we had our paper… after that sir, there was a paper also on the computer… meaning, first the class was conducted and then the test was taken. Then practical was conducted, that is, how to fly the drone, how to handle the controls, everything was taught in practical mode.

Modi ji: Then what work would the drone do, how was that taught?

Sunita Devi: Sir, the drone will work, when the crop is growing. During the rainy season or anything like that…

Sunita Devi: well, there is a problem during the rains and we are not able to enter the fields to harvest the crops, so how will the farmhands go inside! Then through this, the farmers will benefit a lot and they will not even have to enter the fields. We can do the work done by labourers using our drone, we can do our work by standing on the farm boundary, we will have to be careful if there are any insects inside the field, there won’t be any problem and the farmers are also feeling very good. Sir, we have sprayed over 35 acres so far.

Modi ji: So do farmers also understand that it has benefits?

Sunita Devi: Yes Sir, the farmers feel very satisfied… they are saying that they are feeling very good. Time is also saved, you look after all the facilities yourself… water, medicine, everything is kept together and we just have to come to the farm and note from where to where the farm is… and I finish the entire work within half an hour.

Modi ji: So other people would also be coming over to see this drone?

Sunita Devi: Sir, there is a huge crowd… many people come to see the drone. Those who are big farmers, they also take our number, saying that we would also be called for spraying.

Modi ji: Okay. Because I have a mission to make Lakhpati Didi… if sisters across the country are listening today, a Drone Didi is talking to me for the first time. What would you like to say?

Sunita Devi: Just like today I am the only Drone Didi, thousands of such sisters should come forward to become Drone Didi like me and I will be very happy that when I am alone, thousands of other people will stand with me… it will feel very good that we’re not alone… many people are with me known as Drone Didis!

Modi ji: Well Sunita ji, many congratulations to you from my side. This Namo Drone Didi is becoming a great means to modernize agriculture in the country. My very best wishes.

Sunita Devi: Thank you, Thank you Sir.

Modi ji: Thank you!

Friends, today there is no region in the country where the woman power has lagged behind. Another area where women have demonstrated their leadership abilities is natural farming, water conservation and sanitation. The suffering, the pain and the hardships that our mother earth is facing due to chemicals – the Matrishakti of the country is playing a big role in saving our mother earth. Women are now extending natural farming in every corner of the country. Today, if so much work is being done in the country under the ‘Jal Jeevan Mission’, water committees have had a big role to play in it. The leadership of these water committees lies only with women. Apart from this, sisters and daughters are making all-out efforts for water conservation. One such lady, Kalyani Prafulla Patil ji is on the phone line with me. She is a resident of Maharashtra.

Come let’s talk to Kalyani Prafulla Patil ji and know about her experience.

Call 2

Prime Minister – Kalyani ji, Namaste.

Kalyani ji – Namaste Sir Ji, Namaste.

Prime Minister – Kalyani ji, first of all tell us about yourself, your family, your work.

Kalyani ji – Sir, I am MSC Microbiology and at home I have my husband, my mother-in-law and my two children and I have been working in my Gram Panchayat for three years.

Prime Minister – And then you got engaged in farming work in the village? Since you have basic knowledge as well, you have also studied in this field and now you have joined farming, so what all new experiments have you conducted?

Kalyani ji – Sir, we collected ten types of flora and we have made an organic spray from it, just like when we spray pesticides etc.,

Kalyani ji – the pests etc. that remain in our Mitra-Keet i.e. friendly insects are also getting destroyed and there is pollution of our soil which is causing harmful effects on our body due to the chemicals getting mixed in the water. Accordingly, we have used minimum pesticides.

Prime Minister – So in a way you are moving towards natural farming, completely!

Kalyani ji – Yes, which is our traditional farming Sir; we did it last year.

Prime Minister – What experience did you have in natural farming?

Kalyani ji – Sir, the expenses incurred by our women were less and the products are there, sir, after getting that solution, we did it without pests… because now the evidence of cancer is increasing in urban areas… yes, it is there, but the evidence of it is increasing in our villages too, so accordingly, if you want to protect your future family, then it is necessary to adopt this path. Accordingly, those women are also displaying active participation in it.

Prime Minister – Okay Kalyani ji, have you also done some work in water conservation? What have you done in that?

Kalyani ji – Sir, through rainwater harvesting at government buildings like primary school, Anganwadi, our Gram Panchayat building… we have collected all the rain water there, at one place. Sir, the rain water that falls should percolate into the ground through recharge shafts… Kalyani ji – so accordingly we have made 20 recharge shafts in our village and secured sanction for 50 recharge shafts. Now that work is also going to start soon.

Prime Minister – Well Kalyani ji, it was a pleasure to talk to you. Many best wishes to you.

Kalyani ji – Thank you sir, thank you sir. I was also very happy to talk to you. Meaning, I believe that my life has become completely meaningful.

Prime Minister – Just keep serving!

Prime Minister – Well, your name is Kalyani, so you have to look after welfare. Thank you ji. Namaskar

Kalyani ji – Thank you sir. Thank you

Friends, whether it is Sunita ji or Kalyani ji, the success of woman power in myriad fields is very inspiring. I once again appreciate this spirit of our woman power, from the core of my heart.

My dear countrymen, today the importance of technology has increased manifold in the lives of all of us. Mobile phones and digital gadgets have become an important part of everyone’s life. But can you imagine that with the help of digital gadgets, we are now getting help in creating a balance with wild animals!

A few days later, on the 3rd of March, it is ‘World Wildlife Day’. This day is celebrated with the aim of spreading awareness on the conservation of wild animals. This year, Digital Innovation has been kept paramount in the theme of the World Wild Life Day. You will be happy to know that technology is being used extensively for the conservation of wildlife in different parts of our country. During the the last few years, through the efforts of the government, the number of tigers in the country has increased. The number of tigers in the Tiger Reserve of Chandrapur, Maharashtra has risen to more than 250.

The help of Artificial Intelligence is being taken to reduce conflict between humans and tigers in Chandrapur district. Here cameras have been installed on the border of the villages and the forest. Whenever a tiger comes near a village; with the help of AI, local people get an alert on their mobile. Today, this system has provided a lot of convenience to the people in the 13 villages around this Tiger Reserve and the tigers have also got protection.

Friends, today young entrepreneurs are also working in new innovations for wildlife conservation and eco-tourism. In Roorkee, Uttarakhand, Rotor Precision Group in collaboration with Wildlife Institute of India has developed a drone which is helping to keep an eye on the crocodiles in the Ken River. Similarly, a Bengaluru company has prepared an app named ‘Bagheera’ and ‘Garuda’.

With the Bagheera App, the speed of the vehicle and other activities can be monitored during a jungle safari. It is being used in many Tiger Reserves of the country. The Garuda App, based on Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things, starts providing real time alerts on connecting it to any CCTV.

With every such effort towards conservation of wildlife, the biodiversity of our country is becoming richer.

Friends, in India harmony with nature has been an integral part of our culture. We have been living with a spirit of coexistence with nature and wildlife for thousands of years. If you ever go to the Melghat Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra, you will be able to experience it for yourself. Tribal families living in Khatkali village near this Tiger Reserve have converted their houses into home stays with the help of the government. This is becoming a big source of income for them. Prakash Jamkar ji of Korku tribe living in the same village has built a seven-room home stay on his two hectare land. His family makes arrangements for food and drink for the tourists staying at his place. Along with medicinal plants, he has also planted mango and coffee trees around his house. This has not only increased the attraction of tourists; it has also created new employment opportunities for other people.

My dear countrymen, when we talk about animal husbandry, we often stop at cows and buffaloes only. But the goat is also an important animal, which is not discussed much.

Many people in different areas of the country are also associated with goat rearing. In Kalahandi, Odisha, goat rearing is becoming a major means of improving the livelihood of the village people as well as their standard of living. Behind this effort is a major decision of Jayanti Mahapatra ji and her husband Biren Sahu ji. Both of them were management professionals in Bengaluru, but they decided to take a break and come to Salebhata village of Kalahandi. These people wanted to do something that would solve the problems of the villagers here and simultaneously empower them. With this thinking full of service and dedication, they established Manikastu Agro and started working with the farmers. Jayanti ji and Biren ji have also opened an interesting Manikastu Goat Bank here. They are promoting goat rearing at the community level. There are about dozens of goats at their Goat Farm.

Manikastu Goat Bank has set up a complete system for the farmers. Through this, farmers are given two goats for 24 months. Goats give birth to 9 to 10 kids in 2 years, out of which 6 kids are kept by the bank, the rest are given to the same family which rears goats. Not only that, necessary services are also provided for the care of goats.

Today more than 1000 farmers from 50 villages are associated with this couple. With their help, the village people are moving towards self-reliance in the field of animal husbandry.

I feel very happy to see that successful professionals in various fields are adopting novel methods to make small farmers empowered and self-reliant. Their efforts are going to inspire everyone.

My dear countrymen, the essence of the teachings of our culture is – ‘Parmarth Paramo Dharmah’ i.e. helping others is the highest duty. Following this sentiment, countless people in our country dedicate their lives to serving others selflessly. One such person is – Bhim Singh Bhavesh ji of Bhojpur in Bihar. There is a lot of buzz about his work among the people of the Musahar caste of his region. That’s why I thought why not talk to you about him as well today! Musahar has been a very deprived community in Bihar; a very poor community. Bhim Singh Bhavesh ji has focused on the education of the children of this community, so that their future could be bright. He has enrolled about 8 thousand children of Musahar caste in school. He has also built a big library, through which children are getting better facilities for education.

Bhim Singh ji also helps his community members in making necessary documents and filling up their forms. This has further improved the village people’s access to essential resources. To improve the health of the people, he has organized more than 100 medical camps. When the terrible Corona crisis was looming large, Bhim Singh ji encouraged the people in his area to get vaccinated.

There are many people like Bhim Singh Bhavesh ji in different parts of the country, who are engaged in many such noble endeavours in the society. If we perform our duties as a responsible citizen, it will prove to be very helpful in building a strong nation.

My dear countrymen, the beauty of India lies in her diversity and also in the different hues of our culture. I feel good to see how many people are selflessly making efforts to preserve and beautify Indian culture. You will find such people in every part of India. Among these, a large number are also those who are working in the field of language. Mohammad Manshah ji of Ganderbal in Jammu and Kashmir has been engaged in efforts to preserve the Gojri language for the last three decades.

He comes from the Gujjar Bakarwal community which is a tribal community. In his childhood he had to work hard to study, he used to cover a distance of 20 kilometers on foot every day. Amidst such challenges, he obtained a Masters degree and it was only then that his resolve to preserve his language became stronger.

The scope of Manshah ji’s work in the field of literature is so extensive that it has been conserved in about 50 volumes. These also include poems and folk songs. He has translated many books into Gojri language.

Friends, Banwang Losu ji of Tirap in Arunachal Pradesh is a teacher. He has made an important contribution in the spread of Wancho language.

This language is spoken in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and some parts of Assam. He has undertaken the task of setting up a language school. A script of Vancho language has also been prepared. He is also teaching Wancho language to the coming generations so that it can be saved from extinction.

Friends, there are many people in our country who are engaged in preserving their culture and language through songs and dances. The life of Venkappa Ambaji Sugetkar of Karnataka, is also very inspiring in this regard. Sugatkar ji, resident of Bagalkot here, is a folk singer. He has sung more than 1000 Gondhali songs and has also widely propagated stories in this language. He has also imparted training to hundreds of students without charging any fees. There is no dearth of such people full of zeal and enthusiasm in India, who are continuously enriching our culture. You too take inspiration from them; try to do something of your own. You will feel immense satisfaction.

My dear countrymen, two days ago I was in Varanasi and there I saw a wonderful photo exhibition. The moments that the youth of Kashi and surrounding areas have captured on camera are amazing. There are many photographs in it which were taken with a mobile camera. Indeed, today anyone who has a mobile has become a content creator. Social media has also helped a lot in showcasing people’s skills and talents. Our young friends in India are doing wonders in the field of content creation.

No matter what social media platform it is, you will definitely find our young friends sharing varied content on different topics. Be it tourism, social cause, public participation or an inspiring life journey, various types of content related to these are available on social media. The voice of the youth of the country who are creating content has become very effective today. To honour their talent, the National Creators Award has been started in the country. Under this, preparations are being made to honour those change makers in different categories who are using technology to become effective voices of social change. This contest is running on MyGov and I would urge content creators to join it. If you also know such interesting content creators, then definitely nominate them for the National Creators Award.

My dear countrymen, I am happy that just a few days ago the Election Commission has started another campaign – ‘Mera Pehla Vote – Desh Ke Liye’. Through this, first time voters have been especially requested to vote in maximum numbers. India is proud of its youth power, full of enthusiasm and energy. The more our youth participate in the electoral process, the more beneficial its results will be for the country.

I would also urge first time voters to vote in record numbers. On turning 18, you are getting a chance to elect a member for the 18th Lok Sabha. That means this 18th Lok Sabha will also be a symbol of youth aspiration. That is why, the importance of your vote has risen further. Amidst this hustle and bustle of the general elections, you, the youth, should not only be a part of political activities but also remain aware of the discussions and debates during this period. And do remember – ‘My first vote – for the country’. I would also urge the influencers of the country, whether they are from the sports world, film industry, literature world, other professionals or our Instagram and YouTube influencers, they too should actively participate in this campaign and motivate our first time voters.

Friends, that’s all with me in this episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’. The atmosphere of Lok Sabha elections is all pervasive in the country and as happened last time, there is a possibility that the code of conduct might also be in place in the month of March. It is a huge success of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ that in the last 110 episodes, we have kept it away from even the shadow of the government. In ‘Mann Ki Baat’, there is mention of the collective power of the country;

there is talk of the achievements of the country. In a way, this is a programme prepared by the people, for the people, through the people. But still, adhering to political decorum, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ will not be broadcast for the next three months in these days of Lok Sabha elections. Next when we will interact with you in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, it will be the 111th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’. Next time ‘Mann Ki Baat’ starting with the auspicious number 111… what could be better than that! But, friends, you have to keep performing one task for me. Even though ‘Mann Ki Baat’ is undergoing a break for three months, the achievements of the country will not stop even for a while, therefore, keep posting the achievements of the society and the country on social media with the hashtag ‘Mann Ki Baat’. Some time ago a young person had offered me a good suggestion. The suggestion is to share short videos in the form of YouTube Shorts from earlier episodes of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ so far. Therefore, I would urge the listeners of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ to share such shorts extensively. Friends, the next time I converse with you, I will meet you with new energy and new information.

Take care of yourself, thank you very much.

Namaskar.

PM addresses Ashwamedha Yagya organized by the Gayatri Parivar

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today addressed Ashwamedha Yagya organized by the Gayatri Parivar through a video message.  The Prime MInister started with his dilemma to get associated with a ‘Ashwamedh Yagya’ in the light of upcoming elections as that could be misinterpreted.  However, he said, “when I saw the Ashwamedha Yagya to uphold the sentiments of Acharya Shri Ram Sharma and infusing it with new meaning, my doubts melted away”

“The Ashwamedha Yagya organized by the Gayatri Parivar has become a grand social campaign,” Prime Minister Modi acknowledged, highlighting its role in steering millions of youth away from addiction and towards nation-building activities. “Youth are the future of our nation,” Prime Minister Modi emphasized, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping India’s destiny and contributing to its development. He extended heartfelt wishes to the Gayatri Parivar for their commitment to this noble endeavor. Commending their efforts to inspire individuals through the teachings of Acharya Shri Ram Sharma and Mata Bhagwati, the Prime MInister recalled his personal connection with many members of the Gayatri Parivar.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the imperative to protect the youth from the grip of addiction and provide support to those already affected. “Addiction wreaks havoc on individuals and societies, causing immense damage,” Prime Minister Modi underscored, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the nationwide initiative for a Drug-Free India launched three to four years ago which engaged more than 11 crore people. The Prime Minister highlighted the extensive outreach efforts including bike rallies, oath-taking ceremonies, and street plays conducted in collaboration with social and religious organizations. The Prime MInister has been underscoring the importance of preventive measures against addiction in his Mann ki Baat also .

“As we integrate our youth with larger national and global initiatives, they will steer clear of small wrongdoings,” Prime Minister Modi remarked, highlighting the youth’s pivotal role in achieving the goals of a Viksit and Aatmnirbhar Bharat. “The theme of the G-20 summit under India’s presidency, ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future,’ exemplifies our shared human values and aspirations,” Prime Minister Modi stated, underscoring the importance of collective efforts in global initiatives such as ‘One sun, one world, one grid’ and ‘One world, one health.’ “In such national and global campaigns, the more we involve our youth, the more they will stay away from the wrong path,” Prime Minister Modi said.

Speaking on the government’s focus on sports and science, the Prime MInister remarked, “the success of Chandrayaan has sparked a new interest for technology among the youth,” Prime Minister Modi, emphasized the transformative impact of such initiatives in channeling the energy of the youth in the right direction. He said that initiatives like the Fit India Movement and the Khelo India will motivate the youth and “a motivated youth cannot turn towards substance abuse.”

Referring to the new organization ‘Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)’, the  Prime Minister Modi informed that more than 1.5 crore youth have already registered with the portal giving a push to right use of youth power for nation building.

Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the devastating results of substance addiction and stressed the government’s commitment to eradicating substance abuse from the grassroots level. PM Modi highlighted the need for strong family support systems to combat substance abuse effectively. “Hence, for building a substance-free India, it is imperative for families to be strong as institutions,” Prime Minister Modi affirmed.

“During the Pran Pratishtha Samaroh of the Ram Mandir, I stated that a new journey of a thousand years is beginning for India,” Prime Minister Modi remembered, expressing confidence in the nation’s trajectory towards a glorious future. “In this Amrit Kaal, we are witnessing the dawn of this new era,” Prime Minister Modi said, expressing optimism about India’s journey towards becoming a global leader through national development through the  endeavors of individual development.

PM addresses ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit Chhattisgarh’ program

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressed the ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit Chhattisgarh’ program via video conferencing today. During the programme, the Prime Minister inaugurated, dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth over Rs 34,400 crores. The projects cater to many important sectors including Roads, Railways, Coal, Power, and Solar Energy.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister greeted lakhs of families that were connected with the programme from all the assembly constituencies of Chhattisgarh. The Prime Minister emphasized that Viksit Chattisgarh will be created by the empowerment of the youth, women, poor and farmers and modern infrastructure will strengthen the foundation of Viksit Chhattisgarh. He said the projects that are being inaugurated or foundation stones being laid today will create new opportunities for the people of Chattisgarh.

Referring to the dedication of NTPC’s Super Thermal Power Project to the nation today and the foundation stone laying of Stage-II with a capacity of 1600 MW, the Prime Minister said that electricity will now be made available for the citizens at a lesser expense. He also highlighted the government’s endeavor to make Chhattisgarh a center for Solar Energy and mentioned dedicating solar power plants in Rajnandgaon and Bhilai that have the potential to supply electricity to nearby regions even during the night. “Government strives to cut down the electricity bills of consumers to zero”, PM Modi remarked, informing about the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity scheme which currently comprises 1 crore households around the country. He informed that the government will provide financial aid directly into the bank accounts for setting up rooftop solar panels where 300 units of electricity will be made free and the excess electricity produced will be bought back by the government, thereby creating additional income for citizens worth thousands of rupees. He also mentioned the government’s emphasis on transforming the annadata into urjadata by assisting farmers to set up small-scale solar plants on barren farmlands.

The Prime Minister commended the completion of guarantees by the double-engine government in Chhattisgarh. Lakhs of farmers in the state have already received a bonus that was pending for two years. Double-engine government has also fulfilled the election guarantee of increasing the emoluments of Tendu leaves collectors, he informed. Schemes like PM Awas and Har Ghar Nal se Jal have picked up a new momentum, he said. Irregularities in various examinations are being investigated and the Prime Minister congratulated women of the state for Mehtari Vandan Yojana.

PM Modi said that Chhattisgarh has hard-working farmers, talented youth and natural treasure, everything that is needed to become Viksit. He criticized the myopic and selfish dynastic politics of earlier governments for lack of progress in the state. He said, “For Modi, you are his family and your dreams are his resolutions. That is why I am talking about Viksit Bharat and Viksit Chhattisgarh today”.  He further said, “To each of 140 crore Indians this servant has given the guarantee of his commitment and hard work” and recalled his 2014 guarantee of making every Indian proud of India’s image in the world. Similarly, strong action is being taken against those who have looted poor citizen’s money. This money is being utilized for the scheme for the welfare of the poor, he said. He mentioned free ration, free medical treatment, affordable medicines, housing, piped water, gas connection and toilets for the poor. Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra saw Modi’s Guarantee vehicle going to every village.

Recalling Modi’s guarantee 10 years ago, the Prime Minister mentioned creating the India of the dreams and aspirations of our ancestors and said that such a developed India is emerging today. He mentioned the Digital India initiative and gave examples of real-time payments, banking systems and notifications for payments received, and underlined that it has become a reality today. He informed that the present government has transferred more than Rs 34 lakh crores to the bank accounts of the people of the country through Direct Benefit Transfer, assistance of Rs 28 lakh crores to the youth for employment and self-employment under the Mudra Scheme, and assistance of Rs 2.75 lakh crores under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi. He also pointed out the leakages in the transfer of funds that would have occurred during the previous governments due to a lack of transparency. “When corruption comes to an end, development starts and creates many employment opportunities”, PM Modi said, throwing light on the development of health facilities and education infrastructure, and the construction of new roads and rail lines as a result of good governance.

The Prime Minister said that such works will create a Viksit Chhattisgarh and in the next 5 years when India will emerge as the third largest economy in the world, Chhattisgarh too will reach new heights of development.  “This is a big opportunity, especially for first-time voters and young people studying in school and college. Viksit Chhattisgarh will fulfill their dreams”, the Prime Minister concluded.

Background

The Prime Minister dedicated NTPC’s Lara Super Thermal Power Project, Stage-I (2×800 MW) to the nation and laid the foundation Stone of NTPC’s Lara Super Thermal Power Project, Stage-II (2×800 MW) in Raigarh district of Chhattisgarh. While Stage-I of the station is built with an investment of around Rs 15,800 crore, Stage-II of the project shall be constructed on the available land of Stage-I premises, thus requiring no additional land for the expansion, and entails an investment of Rs 15,530 crore. Equipped with highly efficient Super Critical technology (for Stage-I) and Ultra Super Critical technology (for Stage-II), the project will ensure lesser Specific Coal Consumption and Carbon Dioxide emission.  While 50% power from both Stage-I & II is allocated to the state of Chhattisgarh, the project will also play a crucial role in improving power scenario in several other states and UTs, such as Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Goa, Daman & Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli among others.

The Prime Minister inaugurated three key First Mile Connectivity (FMC) projects of South Eastern Coalfields Limited, built at a total cost of more than Rs 600 crores. They will help in faster, eco-friendly, and efficient mechanized evacuation of coal. These projects include Dipka OCP Coal Handling Plant in SECL’s Dipka Area and Chhal, and Baroud OCP Coal handling plant in SECL’s Raigarh Area. FMC projects ensure the mechanized movement of coal from pithead to coal handling plants equipped with silos, bunkers, and rapid loading systems through conveyor belts. By reducing the transportation of coal via road, these projects will help ease the living conditions of people residing around coal mines by reducing traffic congestion, road accidents, and adverse impacts on the environment and health around coal mines. It is also leading to savings in transportation costs by reducing diesel consumption by trucks carrying coal from the pit head to railway sidings.

In a step to boost production of renewable energy in the region, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Solar PV Project at Rajnandgaon built at a cost of around Rs 900 Crore. The project will generate an estimated 243.53 million units of energy annually and will mitigate around 4.87 million tons of CO2 emissions over 25 years, equivalent to the carbon sequestered by about 8.86 million trees over the same period.

Strengthening the rail infrastructure in the region, the Prime Minister dedicated Bilaspur – Uslapur Flyover to be built at a cost of around Rs. 300 Crores. This will reduce the heavy congestion of traffic and stoppage of coal traffic at Bilaspur going towards Katni. The Prime Minister also dedicated a 50MW Solar Power Plant in Bhilai. It will help in the utilization of solar energy in running trains.

The Prime Minister dedicated to the nation, the rehabilitation and upgradation of 55.65 km long Section of NH-49 to two lanes with paved shoulders. The project will help in improving connectivity between two important cities Bilaspur and Raigarh. The PM also dedicated rehabilitation and upgradation of 52.40 km long section of NH-130 to two-lanes with paved shoulders. The project will help improve the connectivity of Ambikapur city with Raipur and Korba city and will boost the economic growth of the area.

PM inaugurates and lays foundation stone of multiple key initiatives for Cooperative sector

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple key initiatives for the Cooperative sector at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The Prime Minister inaugurated the pilot project of ‘World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector’, which is being done in 11 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) of 11 States. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for additional 500 PACS across the country for construction of godowns & other agri infrastructure under this initiative. This initiative aims to seamlessly integrate PACS godowns with the food grain supply chain, fortifying food security and fostering economic development in the country with a collaborative effort supported by NABARD and spearheaded by the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC). This initiative is being implemented through convergence of various existing schemes like the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), Agriculture Marketing Infrastructure (AMI), etc. to enable PACS participating in the project to avail subsidies and interest subvention benefits for undertaking infrastructure development. The Prime Minister also inaugurated a project for computerization in 18,000 PACS across the country, aligning with the government’s vision of “Sahakar se Samridhi” aimed at rejuvenating the cooperative sector and empowering small and marginal farmers.

Speaking on the occasion the Prime Minister noted that Bharat Mandapam is witnessing another milestone in the journey of Viksit Bharat i.e. a step forward in the direction of ‘Sahkaar se Samriddhi’.The power of cooperation has a huge role in strengthening the foundation of agriculture and farming, this has led to a separate Ministry for Cooperation. He said that the ‘World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector’ launched today will result in thousands of warehouses and godowns in every corner of the country. This and other projects like computerization of PACs will give new dimensions to agriculture and modernize farming in the country.

The Prime Minister underlined that cooperatives are an ancient concept for India. Quoting a scripture, the Prime Minister explained that a large task can be accomplished if smaller resources are put together and said that this model was followed in the ancient system of villages in India. “Cooperatives were the foundations of India’s atmanirbhar society. It is not just any system, but a belief, a spirit”, PM Modi remarked, highlighting that this spirit of cooperatives is beyond the boundaries of systems and resources and produces exceptional results. He said that it has the potential to convert an ordinary system related to daily life into a huge industrious system, and a proven result of the changing face of the rural and agricultural economy. Through this new Ministry, the Prime Minister emphasized, the government aims to bring together the fragmented powers of the agricultural sector of India

Giving the example of Farmers Producers Organisation (FPOs), the Prime Minister noted the growing entrepreneurship among the small farmers in villages. He said due to having a separate Ministry, 8000 FPOs out of a target of 10,000 FPOs are already functional in the country. The benefits of cooperatives are now reaching fishermen and pushupalaks also. More than 25,000 cooperative units are functional in the fishery sector. The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s goal of establishing 200,000 cooperative societies in the coming years.

Recalling his experience as Chief Minister of Gujarat, the Prime Minister cited the success stories of Amul and Lijjat Papad as the power of cooperatives and also highlighted the central role of women in these enterprises. The government has given priority to women in the policies related to the cooperative sector. He mentioned ensuring board representation for women by amending the Multi-state Cooperative Societies Act.

The Prime Minister underlined that cooperatives have the potential to tackle the personal issues of farmers with collective strength and gave the example of storage. Pointing out the losses incurred by farmers due to lack of storage infrastructure, the Prime Minister drew attention to the world’s largest storage plan of 700 lakh metric tons initiated by the government and to be completed in the next 5 years at a cost of Rs 1.25 lakh crores. He said that it would enable farmers to store their produce and sell it at the right time according to their own needs while also helping to avail loans from banks.

“Modernization of agricultural systems is equally important for the creation of a Viksit Bharat”, the Prime Minister said, highlighting the government’s endeavour to create a new role for government organizations such as PACS. He stated that these committees are functioning as Jan Aushadhi Kendras while thousands of PM Kisan Samruddhi Kendras are also being operated. He also mentioned cooperative committees operating in the areas of petrol, diesel, and LPG cylinders while PACS also plays the role of water committees in several villages. This, the Prime Minister said, has increased the productivity of loan committees and also created new sources of income. “Cooperative committees are now acting as common service centers in villages and providing hundreds of facilities”, he added, noting the emergence of technology and digital India to take the services to farmers on a larger scale. He further added that it will create new employment opportunities for the youth in the villages.

The Prime Minister outlined the importance of cooperative institutions in the journey of Viksit Bharat. He asked them to contribute towards the goals of Aatmnirbhar Bharat. “Viksit Bharat is not possible without an Aatmanirbhar Bharat ”, the Prime Minister stressed. He suggested that the cooperative should list the items for which we are dependent on import and explore how the cooperative sector can help with producing them locally. He gave an example of edible oil as a product that may be taken up.  Similarly, cooperative push for ethanol can reduce dependence on oil imports for energy needs. Pulse import is another area that the Prime Minister suggested for cooperative societies for the reduction of foreign dependence. Many manufacturing goods can also be taken up by the cooperatives, he said.

The Prime Minister also underlined the role of the cooperatives in natural farming and turning farmers into Urjadata (provider of energy) and Urvarakdata (provider of fertilizer). He said rooftop solar and solar panels on the borders of the farms can be seen as areas for cooperative initiative. Similar intervention is feasible in Gobardhan, production of bio CNG, manure and waste to wealth. This will reduce fertilizer import bills also, he said. He asked the cooperative to come forward in global branding of the efforts of the small farmers. He also asked them to make Shri Anna-Millets available on dining tables globally.

Focussing on the role of the cooperative in increasing rural income, the Prime Minister noted the impact of the dairy cooperative in his constituency Kashi. He also noted the strides made by cooperatives in the honey sector as honey production increased from 75 thousand metric tonnes to 1.5 lakh metric tonnes and honey export increased from 28 thousand metric tonnes to 80 thousand metric tonnes in the last 10 years. Acknowledging the role of NAFED, TRIFED and state cooperatives, the Prime Minister asked to expand the ambit of these bodies.

Underlining the benefits of digital payment and Direct Benefit Transfer, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for direct and digital payment by the PACS. He also asked them to come forward for soil testing and make soil health card campaign a success.

The Prime Minister drew attention to increasing the contributions of the youth and women in cooperatives. He suggested that farmers associated with cooperatives be taught to analyse the health of the soil and make produce accordingly. He said that it would create a new environment and reenergize the sector. The Prime Minister also stressed creating awareness about skill development and training in the cooperative sector. “PACS and cooperative societies will also have to learn from each other”, the Prime Minister said, suggesting the creation of a portal for sharing best practices, a system for online training and modules to take forward best practices. Speaking about the Aspirational District Program, the Prime Minister mentioned creating healthy competition among districts and suggested a similar mechanism in the cooperative sector. He also touched upon the importance of bringing transparency in the elections of cooperative organizations to boost people’s confidence.

The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s efforts to make cooperative societies the basis of prosperity and mentioned reducing the cess on cooperative societies with income between Rs 1 crore and Rs 10 crore from 12 percent to 7 percent. This has led to increased capital for the committees while also opening various avenues to move forward as a company. He pointed out the discrimination in alternative taxes between cooperative societies and companies and mentioned reducing the minimum alternate tax for societies from 18.5 percent to 15 percent, thereby establishing equality between cooperative societies and companies. The Prime Minister also stated increasing the withdrawal limit to Rs 3 crore from Rs 1 crore annually tackling the issue of TDS on withdrawals. Concluding the address, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that the joint efforts in the direction of cooperation will open up all the possibilities of development with the collective strength of the country.

Union Minister for Home Affairs and Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, Union Minister for Agriculture, Shri Arjun Munda and Union Minister for Commerce, Shri Piyush Goyal were present on the occasion among others.

Background

The monumental project has been approved with a financial outlay of more than Rs 2,500 crore. This initiative involves transitioning all functional PACS onto a unified Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) based national software, ensuring seamless integration and connectivity. By linking these PACS with NABARD through State Cooperative Banks and District Central Cooperative Banks, the project aims to enhance the operation efficiency & governance of PACS, thus benefiting crores of small & marginal farmers. NABARD has developed the National Level Common Software for this project, tailored to meet the diverse needs of PACS across the country. Onboarding of 18,000 PACS on ERP software has been completed, marking a significant milestone in the project’s implementation.

PM lays foundation stone for multiple development projects worth Rs 13,000 crores in Varanasi

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth more than Rs 13,000 crore in Varanasi today. The Prime Minister also visited Banas Kashi Sankul, a milk processing unit of Banaskantha District Cooperative Milk Producers Union Ltd built at UPSIDA Agro Park, Karkhiyaon, Varanasi and interacted with cow beneficiaries. PM Modi also handed out employment letters and GI-authorized user certificates. The development projects of today cater to important sectors such as road, rail, aviation, tourism, education, health, drinking water, urban development, and sanitation.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude for being present in Kashi once again and recalled being elected as the Parliamentarian of the city 10 years ago. He said that in these 10 years, Banaras has transformed him into a Banarasi. Shri Modi lauded the support and contributions of the people of Kashi and said that the campaign to create a New Kashi is underway with the development projects of today worth more than Rs 13,000 crores. He said that development projects ranging from sectors of rail, road, airport-related projects, animal husbandry, industry, sports, skill development, cleanliness, health, spirituality, tourism, and LPG gas among others will give impetus to the development of not just Kashi but the entire Purvanchal region. It will also create new employment opportunities, he added. The Prime Minister also mentioned the projects related to Sant Ravidas ji and congratulated the citizens.

Expressing his happiness about the development projects in Kashi and Eastern Uttar Pradesh, the Prime Minister recalled his road trip last night on his way to the Guest House and noted the benefits of the Phulwaria flyover project. He also noted the improvement of ease in the journey from BLW to the airport. The Prime Minister inspected the development project last night immediately after landing from his Gujarat trip. Talking about the development push in the last 10 years, the Prime Minister said that Sigra Sports Stadium Phase-1 and District Rifle Shooting Range will greatly benefit the young athletes of the region.

The Prime Minister mentioned visiting the Banas Dairy and interacting with several pashupalaks women earlier in the day. He said that women belonging to agricultural backgrounds were provided with indigenous breeds of Gir Gai 2-3 years ago to raise awareness. Noting that the number of Gir Gais has now reached almost 350, the Prime Minister informed that they produce up to 15 liters of milk compared to 5 liters produced by ordinary cows. He added that one such Gir Gai is producing 20 liters of milk creating additional income for women making them Lakhpati Didis. “This is a huge inspiration for the 10 crore women associated with self-help groups in the country”, he added.

Recalling the event of the foundation stone laying of Banas Dairy two years ago, the Prime Minister said that the guarantee given on that day is in front of the people today. He said Banas Dairy is a good example of creation of jobs through the right investment. Banas Dairy collects about 2 lakh liters of milk from Varanasi, Mirzapur, Gazipur and Raebareli. With the start of the new plant, Pashupalaks of Ballia, Chandauli, Prayagraj and Jaunpur will also benefit. Under the project, new Milk Mandis will come up in more than 1000 villages in Varanasi, Jaunpur, Chandauli, Gazipur and Azamgarh districts.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the Banas Kashi Sankul will create thousands of new employment opportunities. According to an estimate, the Prime Minister said, Banas Kashi Sankul will give a boost to the income of more than 3 lakh farmers. He informed that the unit will also undertake the manufacturing of other dairy products such as buttermilk, curd, lassi, ice cream, paneer and regional sweets. PM Modi underlined that the plant will play a key role in taking the sweets of Banaras to every corner of India. He also touched upon milk transportation as a means of employment and a boost for the animal nutrition industry.

The Prime Minister requested the leadership of the dairy to develop a system of transferring money directly to the accounts of the Pashupalak sisters digitally, noting the preponderance of women in the dairy sector. The Prime Minister underlined the role of animal husbandry in helping small farmers and landless laborers.

The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s resolve to make annadata from Urja Data to Urwarakdata. He informed about the opportunity in Gobar Dhan and talked about the plant in the dairy for making Bio CNG and organic manure. Noting the increasing trend of natural farming on the bank of the river Ganga, the Prime Minister acknowledged the utility of organic manure under Gobar Dhan Scheme. Referring to urban waste to Charcoal Plant by NTPC, the Prime Minister praised Kashi’s spirit of turning ‘Kachra into Kanchan’.

The Prime Minister said that Kisan aur Pashupalak is the greatest priority of the government. He mentioned FRP revision of Sugarcane in the last Cabinet meeting to 340 rs per quintal and easing of Pashudhan Bima Karyakram with an amendment in the national livestock mission. He said not only arrears of the farmers are being cleared, but prices of the crops are also being increased.

“Atmanirbhar Bharat will become the foundation for Viksit Bharat”, the Prime Minister said, highlighting the difference between the thought process of the previous and the present government. He emphasized that Atmanirbhar Bharat will become a reality only when the smaller possibilities in the country are reenergized, and the small farmers, pashupalaks, craftsmen and small and medium industries are provided assistance. The Prime Minister said that the call for Vocal for Local is an advertisement for the small players in the market who cannot spend on television and newspaper commercials. “Modi himself advertises those who produce indigenous goods”, he said, “Modi is the ambassador of every small farmer and industry, be it the promotion of Khadi, toy manufacturers, Make in India, or Dekho Apna Desh.” He observed that the impact of such a call can be witnessed in Kashi itself where more than 12 crore tourists have visited the city since the rejuvenation of Vishwanath Dham leading to a surge in income and employment opportunities. Referring to the launch of electric catamaran vessel provided by Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) for Varanasi & Ayodhya, PM Modi said that it will create a unique experience for those visiting.

The Prime Minister also elaborated on the ill-effect of dynasty politics, corruption and appeasement in the earlier times. He also criticized the maligning of the youth of Kashi by certain quarters. He highlighted the contradiction between the growth of youth and dynasty politics. He also noted the hatred for new form of Kashi and Ayodhya among these forces.

“Modi’s third term will bring India’s capabilities to the forefront of the world and India’s economic, social, strategic, and cultural sectors will be at new heights”, the Prime Minister remarked. Highlighting India’s progress, the Prime Minister mentioned leapfrogging to 5th largest economy in the world from 11th in the last 10 years. He further added that India will become the 3rd largest economy in the next 5 years. PM Modi affirmed the belief that developmental works such as Digital India, widening of roads, modernized railway stations, and Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat, and Namo Bharat trains will be accelerated in the next 5 years. “Modi’s guarantee to make Eastern India the growth engine of Viksit Bharat”, PM Modi said pointing out that the region had been deprived of development. Speaking about the inauguration of the first phase of the six-lane highway from Varanasi to Aurangabad, the Prime Minister said that the completion of the Varanasi-Ranchi-Kolkata Expressway in the coming 5 years will reduce the distance between UP, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. “In future, the travel time from Banaras to Kolkata is going to be almost halved”, he added.

The Prime Minister anticipated new dimensions of Kashi’s development in the coming 5 years. He mentioned Kashi Ropeway and the exponential rise in airport capacity. He said that Kashi will emerge as an important sports city in the country. He also acknowledged Kashi as a major contributor to the Make in India and Aatmnirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. He informed that in the next 5 years, Kashi will be a hub of employment and skills. During this period the National Institution of Fashion Technology campus will also be completed which will create new opportunities for the youth and weavers of the area. “In the last decade, we have given a new identity to Kashi as a hub of health and education. Now a new medical college is also going to be added to it”, The Prime Minister said. Along with the National Center of Aging in BHU, many diagnostic machines and equipment worth Rs 35 crore were inaugurated today. A facility to tackle bio-hazardous waste from the hospital is also being developed.

Concluding the address, the Prime Minister said that the rapid development of Kashi and UP must continue and called on every resident of Kashi to unite. “If the country and the world have so much faith in Modi’s guarantee, it is because of your affection and Baba’s blessings”, he concluded.

Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Brijesh Pathak, Union Minister, Shri Mahendra Nath Pandey and Chairman of Banas Dairy, Shri Shankarbhai Chaudhary were present on the occasion among others.

Background 

To further enhance road connectivity in Varanasi, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple road projects including four laning of Ghargra-Bridge-Varanasi section of NH-233; four laning of Sultanpur-Varanasi section of NH-56, Package-1; six laning of phase-1 of Varanasi-Aurangabad section of NH-19; four laning of Package-1 Varanasi-Hanumana section on NH-35; and ROB on Varanasi- Jaunpur rail section near Babatpur.  He also laid the foundation stone for the construction of Varanasi-Ranchi-Kolkata Expressway Package-1.

To provide impetus to industrial development in the region, the Prime Minister inaugurated LPG Bottling Plant by HPCL in Sewapuri; Banas Kashi Sankul milk processing unit in UPSIDA Agro Park Karkhiyaon; various infrastructure work at UPSIDA Agro Park, Karkhiyaon; and silk fabric printing common facility center for weavers.

The Prime Minister inaugurated multiple urban development projects in Varanasi including Urban waste to Charcoal Plant by NTPC at Ramana; upgradation of water supply network in sis-Varuna area; and online effluent monitoring and SCADA automation of STPs and Sewerage Pumping Stations. The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of multiple projects for the beautification of Varanasi including the projects for the rejuvenation of ponds and redevelopment of parks; and for the design and development of a 3D Urban Digital map and database.

The Prime Minister also inaugurated multiple projects related to tourism and spiritual tourism in Varanasi. The projects include the redevelopment of public facilities at five Padavs of Panchkoshi Parikrama Marg and Pavan Path with ten spiritual yatra; launching of electric catamaran vessel provided by Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) for Varanasi & Ayodhya; and seven change rooms floating jetties and four community jetties. The Electric catamaran will enhance the tourism experience in the Ganges with the use of green energy. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of thirteen community jetties of IWAI at various cities and quick pontoon opening mechanism at Ballia.

Providing impetus to the famous textile sector of Varanasi, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Varanasi. The new institute will strengthen the education and training infrastructure of the textile sector.

Augmenting the health infrastructure in Varanasi, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of a new Medical College in Varanasi. He also laid the foundation stone of National Centre of Ageing at BHU. The Prime Minister inaugurated the Sigra Sports Stadium Phase-1 and District Rifle Shooting Range, a step towards strengthening the sports infrastructure in the city.

Under PM’s visionary leadership, the country’s health infrastructure has been transformed into a state-of-the-art system: J.P. Nadda

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Bharatiya Janata Party National President Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda inaugurated New Facilities & laid the foundation Stone of Vishram Sadan AIIMS Bilaspur, where he also addressed the public gathering. During the event, Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Shri Anurag Thakur, Former Himachal Pradesh CM Shri Jai Ram Thakur, Himachal Pradesh BJP President Shri Rajeev Bindal, Powergrid CMD Shri Ravindra Kumar Tyagi, AIIMS Bilaspur Director Shri Vir Singh Negi along with other officials and dignitaries were also in attendance. 

During the address, Bharatiya Janata Party National President Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda expressed gratitude during his visit to AIIMS Bilaspur. Acknowledging PM Shri Narendra Modi’s contributions, he highlighted the facility’s advancements, including a Liquid Medical Oxygen provision, advanced radiotherapy technology, and a new CT scan facility. Shri Nadda praised the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the prompt establishment of oxygen plants. He credited PM Shri Narendra Modi for AIIMS achievements, noting its role in India’s healthcare progress.

Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda expressed his profound happiness and gratitude for having the opportunity to visit AIIMS Bilaspur. Shri Nadda acknowledged that AIIMS Bilaspur has benefited greatly from the efforts of Shri Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of New and Renewable Energy Shri RK Singh, who have facilitated the establishment of numerous facilities at the institution. This AIIMS is a Dussehra and Diwali gift from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to Bilaspur. Shri Nadda highlighted that the provision for a Liquid Medical Oxygen facility with a capacity of 40,000 liters, costing 4 crore, has been completed. State-of-the-art technology worth 30,000 crores has been installed for advanced radiotherapy in Radiation Oncology. Additionally, a CT scan facility has been established. Furthermore, a Vishram Sadan with a capacity of 300 beds has been recently inaugurated. Shri Nadda expressed gratitude towards the Health Ministry, particularly Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, as well as the Power Ministry and Powergrid for accepting his proposal and providing the necessary facilities.

BJP National President highlighted that under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the country has experienced significant benefits and extensive progress across various sectors, including healthcare. He emphasized the unprecedented nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, which posed challenges globally due to the lack of knowledge regarding its cure and prevention methods. Shri Nadda pointed out the dilemma faced by leaders in Western countries who struggled to balance economic concerns with public health during the pandemic, leading to indecision regarding lockdown measures. But, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi exhibited exemplary leadership, navigating the nation through unparalleled challenges with remarkable resilience. In times of uncertainty, he provided reassurance to the people with the mantra “Jaan Hai toh Jahan Hai” (If there is life, there is the world). Recognizing the lack of critical healthcare infrastructure such as ICU beds and oxygen facilities, the Prime Minister meticulously prepared the nation for a two-month lockdown. Subsequently, within a span of 112 days, under his guidance, India successfully installed 2,500 oxygen plants with a collective capacity to produce 3000 tonnes of oxygen. Shri Nadda noted that it took 40 years for Tetanus medicine to become widely available, and Tuberculosis required 28 years to be recognized as a national program. Similarly, access to Diphtheria’s injection faced delays. The vaccine for Japanese Encephalitis was developed in Japan in 1906 and arrived in India a century later, in 2006.

Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda commended PM Shri Narendra Modi, highlighting that the first case of COVID-19 was identified on January 20, 2020. He emphasized that the Prime Minister promptly established a task force to address the alarming issue, resulting in the development of two indigenous vaccines within nine months. This led to the administration of 2.2 billion vaccine doses, including boosters, to Indians, and India supplied vaccines to another 100 countries, totaling nearly 300 million vaccine doses. Hence, it’s imperative to recognize the influence of leadership.

BJP National President Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda stated that the establishment of AIIMS is a realization of our collective dream, made possible solely by PM Shri Narendra Modi. Credit for this achievement belongs to him. Additionally, this is the same location where there were previously no auditoriums; now we have one. It was challenging to find hospitals, and ICUs, and during his tenure as the Health Minister of the state, establishing the trauma center was equally difficult. The establishment of AIIMS is not the sole achievement in the medical field. Over the last ten years, Chandigarh PGI has experienced exponential growth, with investments now tenfold. Just two days ago, AIIMS was inaugurated in Jammu & Kashmir. Furthermore, All India Medical Science is set to be inaugurated in Bathinda on February 25th by PM Shri Narendra Modi and an AIIMS will also be inaugurated in Rajkot as well, with 23 AIIMS and over 70 IIMs, this represents a dream realized. Shri Nadda highlighted the expansion of educational opportunities in India, with the establishment of NITs and IITs, and the upcoming inauguration of more IIMs. Shri Nadda emphasized that while school education is a birthright, professional education is a privilege bestowed by society, underscoring the importance of utilizing it effectively.

Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda mentioned that during his tenure as Health Minister, Shri Mansukh Mandaviya was the Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers, and due to his efforts, the prices of stents could be reduced. Through the Jan Aushadhi scheme, medications were made more affordable for the public. Previously, Ayurveda did not receive as much attention from the public, but under the leadership of Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Ayurveda and Yoga have gained significant importance at a practical level. Almost all citizens aged 30 years are undergoing health check-ups, which is being facilitated by the Bharatiya Janata Party government. This includes preventive, curative, alleviative, and rehabilitative measures, the government is working on all of them.

Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda highlighted the importance of Ayush, Yoga, and Ayurveda, noting their role in strengthening the immune system. Shri Nadda emphasized the significance of both yoga and Ayurveda, promoting a harmonious balance of body and soul. PM Shri Narendra Modi’s adoption of a holistic approach towards health policies was also acknowledged.

Hon’ble Bharatiya Janata Party  National President mentioned that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest health scheme, was launched. The scheme has provided an annual health cover of 5 lakh to 55 crore people, covering nearly 40% of the Indian population. Shri Nadda also credited former CM Shri Jairam Thakur, for introducing the ‘Hind care’ medical facility in Himachal Pradesh, ensuring health coverage for every resident.

Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda expressed appreciation for Health Minister Shri Mansukh Mandaviya’s efforts in collaboration with PM Shri Narendra Modi to eradicate tuberculosis. While the World Health Organization has set a target for TB eradication by 2030, PM Shri Narendra Modi has aimed to achieve complete eradication by 2025. The government’s focus on efficiently distributing TB medicines has increased the success rate of tuberculosis cure to 80%. The number of drug-resistant TB centers has also risen significantly, from 127 to 792.

Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda highlighted advancements in medical infrastructure, noting an increase in the number of medical colleges from 387 to 706. The number of MBBS seats rose from 50,000 to 1 Lakh 9 thousand. Prior to 2014, there was one doctor for every 1000 patients, and this improved to 864 patients per doctor, surpassing WHO norms. Shri Nadda credited PM Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership for enhancing medical facilities in Himachal Pradesh, contributing to an improved quality of life in the state. Shri Nadda highlighted significant government investments, including 2000 crore rupees in the Bulk Drug Park in Una, Himachal Pradesh, and the establishment of a 350 crore rupees medical device park. He emphasized the crucial role of public participation in governance, stating “We get the government as we deserve.” Shri Nadda stressed that public involvement is vital for policy-making, implementation, and public welfare.

Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda underscored that AIIMS symbolizes a culture committed to saving lives by dedicating one’s own life. To promote this culture, the health ministry has decided to conduct nationwide recruitment and deploy staff to different areas to maintain regional balance. Shri Nadda also highlighted the government’s efforts to create a unified policy framework for AIIMS, ensuring equal policy matters and progress for every medical college. Shri Nadda emphasized that achieving this objective requires selecting the right type of leadership at the right time, a responsibility he urged the public to fulfill in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.