Tokyo, Feb 25 (NationPress) Uttar Pradesh's Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, is currently visiting Japan. During his address to the Indian diaspora in Tokyo, he criticized earlier administrations for leaving the state in “darkness” due to their ties to corruption and disorder. He emphasized that his administration has successfully brought UP “into the light” through comprehensive enhancements in law enforcement, infrastructure, and electricity supply.

The Chief Minister elaborated on UP’s journey from “darkness to development.”

“Previously, the state lacked proper roads, connectivity, and a consistent power supply. The community faced frequent power outages. Those operating in the shadows resist the light. When there’s a tendency toward robbery, actions are concealed in darkness,” he stated.

“To liberate Uttar Pradesh from fear and corruption, we must illuminate it. As children of the Sun, we require bright light akin to the Sun,” he noted, illustrating a stark contrast between past and current governance.

According to the CM, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance, India is steadily progressing towards becoming a Viksit Bharat, with Uttar Pradesh—home to nearly 250 million residents—playing a pivotal role in this transformation.

“In the past, news from UP was dominated by curfews, riots, and darkness. Today, it centers around Diwali festivities, the Maha Kumbh, and international investments,” he remarked.

He highlighted significant progress in law enforcement, road infrastructure, and power supply, asserting that the state has become a prime investment hub in areas such as semiconductors, data centers, artificial intelligence, green hydrogen, logistics parks, and international airports.

Touching upon cultural and religious festivities, CM Yogi pointed out that grand events like Deepotsav in Ayodhya, Dev Deepawali in Kashi, and Holi celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan exemplify a positive shift in the state.

He extended Holi wishes to the Indian community in Japan, stating that events such as the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj and the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya highlight India’s cultural vitality and civilizational legacy.

He also referred to the redevelopment of Kashi Vishwanath Dham as a model of merging modern infrastructure with traditional values.

“India promotes global leadership through friendship and compassion, not through dominance,” he quoted the Sanskrit saying ‘Janani Janmabhoomi Swargadapi Gariyasi’ (Mother and motherland are greater than heaven).

The Chief Minister acknowledged that approximately 55,000 Indians live in Japan and encouraged them to aid in the progress of both India and Japan.

“We are in Japan, the land of the rising sun, while India is the land of the sons of the Sun. Our heritage links faith with duty and values. Even abroad, you maintain India’s cultural legacy and contribute to growth,” he stated.

CM Yogi also discussed the celebration of Uttar Pradesh Day on January 24, asserting that the state has proudly promoted its heritage since 2017. He noted a remarkable increase in the number of lamps lit during Deepotsav in Ayodhya, rising from about 51,000 to between 2.5 and 3 million diyas.

Furthermore, he mentioned that Uttar Pradesh has experienced record tourist numbers, claiming that pride in cultural heritage fuels social and economic growth.

The event commenced with a cultural program featuring performances by young members of the Indian community. The Chief Minister praised their talent, remarking that their display of classical and devotional themes, including interpretations inspired by Ayodhya and Kashi customs, was profoundly impressive.

At a photo session with the performers, chants of “Yogi, Yogi” echoed throughout the venue.