Dehradun, Nov 9 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to Uttarakhand as the “heartbeat of India’s spiritual essence” during a recent address. He expressed that with determination, the state could evolve into the “spiritual capital of the world” in the near future.

While celebrating the 25th Foundation Day of Uttarakhand in Dehradun, PM Modi remarked, “Devbhoomi Uttarakhand is the heartbeat of India's spiritual life. Places like Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Jageshwar, and Adi Kailash embody our profound faith. Each year, millions of pilgrims flock to these revered sites, igniting new energy in Uttarakhand’s economy through their spiritual journeys.”

He emphasized that the true essence of Uttarakhand lies within its spiritual capabilities. “If Uttarakhand sets its mind to it, it can establish itself as the spiritual capital of the globe in just a few years,” he stated, suggesting the connection of temples, ashrams, and yoga centers to a global network.

Regarding the government’s 'Vibrant Villages' initiative, PM Modi said, “The Government of India is strongly advocating for the Vibrant Villages Programme in border regions. I envision every vibrant village in Uttarakhand becoming a small tourism hub, showcasing local cuisine and culture through homestays. Just imagine the joy of savoring 'Doobke Chudkani', 'Raot', Arsa, and 'Jhangore ki Kheer'—this experience will entice visitors to return to Uttarakhand repeatedly.”

He also suggested that the state should promote its local festivals like Harela, Phooldei, and Bhitoli. “Participating in these festivals will leave lasting memories for attendees. The state’s fairs, such as Nanda Devi Mela, Jauljeevi Mela, Uttaraayani Mela, Shravani Mela, and the Butter festival, are vibrant and capture the essence of Uttarakhand,” he added, proposing initiatives like 'One District, One Festival' to showcase these events globally.

PM Modi highlighted the potential of Uttarakhand’s hilly districts for fruit cultivation. “We should focus on transforming these mountainous areas into horticulture centers. Future crops like blueberries, kiwis, and various herbs and medicinal plants can thrive here,” he asserted, urging support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in food processing, handicrafts, and organic products.

Additionally, he noted that Uttarakhand is becoming a popular film destination thanks to a new film policy that simplifies shooting locations. “Uttarakhand is also emerging as a wedding destination. Under my campaign 'Wed in India', the state must establish facilities of international standards to promote this vision, identifying 5 to 7 key sites to develop as model wedding venues,” PM Modi remarked, reinforcing the commitment to an Aatmanirbhar Bharat by being Vocal for Local.

Before his speech, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the groundwork for various developmental projects exceeding Rs 8,140 crore. This included over Rs 930 crore in inaugurated projects and Rs 7,210 crore in newly launched initiatives.

These projects span vital sectors such as drinking water, irrigation, technical education, energy, urban development, sports, and skill enhancement.

On this occasion, the Prime Minister also transferred Rs 62 crore directly to the bank accounts of over 28,000 farmers as part of the Crop Insurance Scheme.