Dehradun, Nov 9 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 25th Foundation Day of Uttarakhand on Sunday, emphasizing that the state has achieved remarkable progress across all areas, showcasing a development journey that reflects the collective resolve of its residents.

During the event, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation for multiple development initiatives worth over Rs 8,140 crore, which includes projects exceeding Rs 930 crore and the foundation stone for ventures worth more than Rs 7,210 crore.

Speaking in the local Garhwali language, the Prime Minister congratulated the residents on this momentous occasion. “The dream that visionary individuals of Uttarakhand struggled to fulfill for years was realized during Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government 25 years ago. Today, the success Uttarakhand has achieved fills everyone who fought for the state's creation with joy,” PM Modi remarked.

He continued, “I am pleased that the double-engine BJP government is dedicated to elevating Uttarakhand's potential to new heights. I extend my congratulations to everyone on this silver jubilee celebration, while also honoring those who sacrificed their lives during the statehood protests.”

Reflecting on his personal ties to Uttarakhand, he said, “My spiritual journeys here have always inspired me, revealing the boundless potential of the people. When I claimed this decade belongs to Uttarakhand after praying at Baba Kedar, it was more than just a comment; it was my firm belief in your capabilities.”

PM Modi noted that 25 years ago, Uttarakhand confronted numerous challenges such as limited resources and employment opportunities, relying heavily on the Centre for support. He asserted, “Today, the landscape has transformed completely.”

During the celebration in Dehradun, he participated in an exhibition and engaged with various stakeholders. He also launched a coffee table book and a commemorative postal stamp.

On the exhibition, he remarked, “It illustrates the inspiring journey of Uttarakhand over the past quarter-century, showcasing successes in infrastructure, education, industry, tourism, health, power, and rural development. The budget was just Rs 4,000 crore 25 years ago, but now it has surpassed Rs 1 lakh crore.”

He highlighted that in the last 25 years, electricity production in Uttarakhand has quadrupled, and road length has doubled. “Initially, only 4,000 tourists arrived by air; today, that number has increased to over 6,000,” he added.

Moreover, the Prime Minister mentioned a significant increase in educational institutions, stating that the number of engineering colleges has surged more than tenfold, and now there are 10 medical colleges in the state compared to just one previously.

“Uttarakhand has made impressive strides across all fronts. The development journey has been extraordinary, driven by inclusive policies and the shared determination of its people,” he asserted.

He also noted that Uttarakhand is fully committed to realizing the vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047'.

Uttarakhand, known as Devbhoomi (the land of Gods), was established from Uttar Pradesh on November 9, 2000, becoming India's 27th state. This day symbolizes its evolution from a people's movement into a model of balanced development, faith, and modernity.

The projects inaugurated by PM Modi span critical sectors such as drinking water, irrigation, technical education, energy, urban development, sports, and skill enhancement.

He also distributed Rs 62 crore to over 28,000 farmers directly into their accounts under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana.