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In a historic visit to Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a slew of development projects, totalling over Rs 6,400 crore, during the ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu Kashmir’ program at Srinagar’s Bakshi Stadium. This visit, the first after the abrogation of Article 370, aimed at bolstering the region’s development and addressing the longstanding disparities faced by its people.
Boosting Jammu and Kashmir’s Development
Addressing a jubilant crowd at the Bakshi Stadium, Prime Minister Modi expressed his delight at being among the people of Srinagar. He emphasized the significance of the development projects, stating, “Development projects being dedicated today will boost the development of Jammu and Kashmir. A developed Jammu and Kashmir is a priority for a developed India.”
PM Modi highlighted the transformation from an era of deprivation to a time of inclusive development. He underscored the change in circumstances, where the people of Jammu and Kashmir now reap the benefits of national schemes and initiatives.
Inauguration of Tourism-Related Projects
During the visit, the Prime Minister inaugurated several development projects related to tourism, focusing on the empowerment of farmers and the leadership of the youth in Jammu and Kashmir. He declared, “Jammu and Kashmir is not just a region; it is the forehead of India. Viksit Jammu and Kashmir is the priority of Viksit Bharat.”
विकसित जम्मू-कश्मीर, विकसित भारत की प्राथमिकता है। pic.twitter.com/SxY9vtzVMy
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 7, 2024
The Prime Minister also distributed appointment letters to nearly 1,000 newly recruited government employees and engaged with beneficiaries of various central schemes, including women achievers, farmers, and entrepreneurs.
Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP)
A major highlight of the visit was the announcement of the ‘Holistic Agriculture Development Programme’ (HADP), aimed at boosting the agri-economy of the region. The program will provide skill development training to about 2.5 lakh farmers, establish 2,000 farmers’ service centers, and create robust value chains for the welfare of the farming community.
Tourism Initiatives and Infrastructure Development
PM Modi’s vision for enhancing the overall experience of tourists and pilgrims was evident in the tourism projects initiated during the visit. The projects align with his commitment to building world-class infrastructure and amenities at pilgrimage and tourism sites across the country. Notable initiatives include the Hazratbal shrine project, tourism facilities in Meghalaya, Bihar, Rajasthan, and other projects in Telangana and Madhya Pradesh.
Elated to be amongst the wonderful people of Srinagar. Numerous projects are being dedicated today which will boost development of Jammu and Kashmir.https://t.co/40hkb6QuFe
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 7, 2024
Stringent Security Measures
Amid the Prime Minister’s visit, stringent security measures were implemented, and Bakshi Stadium was draped in the tricolor. With Lok Sabha elections looming and anticipation regarding the announcement of assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir, the visit carried political significance. The deployment of drones, CCTV cameras, foot patrols, and marine commandos in water bodies aimed to ensure the event’s security.
The Prime Minister’s visit to Kashmir symbolizes a turning point, marking a new era of development and inclusivity for the region. The unveiled projects are poised to contribute significantly to the socio-economic upliftment of Jammu and Kashmir, bringing prosperity to its people.
