Dehradun: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hailed Uttarakhand’s 25-year journey as a remarkable story of resilience, determination, and development, describing the hill state’s progress as a “testament to the spirit of its people.” Addressing a massive gathering at the Silver Jubilee celebrations in Dehradun, the Prime Minister said this is the time for Uttarakhand to “reach new heights” and position itself as the “Spiritual Capital of the World.”
Greeting the crowd with warmth, the Prime Minister recalled the sacrifices made during the long struggle for statehood, paying homage to the martyrs and activists who fought for the creation of Uttarakhand. “This day is the result of a long penance,” he said. “Those who love the mountains, the rivers, and the culture of Devbhoomi feel a deep sense of pride today. The dream that began 25 years ago under Atal ji’s government has now turned into a reality of progress and self-confidence.”
Modi, visibly emotional as he spoke of his deep personal connection with the Himalayan state, said the years he spent in Uttarakhand left an indelible mark on his outlook. “When I came here on spiritual journeys, I witnessed the struggles and the unbreakable determination of the people living in these mountains. That is why, when I said this decade belongs to Uttarakhand, it was not just a slogan — it was a statement of faith,” he declared to thunderous applause.
From Meagre Beginnings to Monumental Growth
Recalling Uttarakhand’s modest beginnings, the Prime Minister pointed out that when the state was carved out 25 years ago, its annual budget stood at merely ₹4,000 crore, with very limited income sources and heavy dependence on central assistance. “Today, that figure has crossed ₹1 lakh crore,” he said, drawing loud cheers from the crowd. “Power generation has increased four times, and the total length of roads has doubled. Earlier, just 4,000 air passengers used to arrive in six months — now, the same number lands in a single day.”
He also highlighted the massive strides in education and healthcare. “In 25 years, engineering colleges have increased more than tenfold, and the number of medical colleges has grown from one to ten. Vaccine coverage, which was under 25 percent, has now reached almost every village,” he said, calling the transformation “a symbol of inclusive and determined governance.”
New Projects to Power Growth
Marking the Silver Jubilee, several key projects were inaugurated or had their foundation stones laid. These include major investments in education, healthcare, tourism, and sports that are expected to create thousands of jobs. The Prime Minister singled out the ₹8,000-crore Jamrani and Song Dam projects as transformative schemes that will help solve the drinking water problems in Dehradun and Haldwani.
He also lauded the Uttarakhand government’s pioneering initiative to provide subsidies to apple and kiwi farmers through digital currency — a first-of-its-kind effort that enhances transparency and efficiency. “This is a fine example of how technology can empower our farmers,” he said, commending the state government and the Reserve Bank of India for their collaboration.
Strengthening Spiritual and Tourism Capital
Describing Uttarakhand as the “heartbeat of India’s spiritual life,” Modi said that its pilgrimage circuits — from Gangotri and Yamunotri to Kedarnath and Badrinath — are not only pathways of devotion but also engines of economic growth. “Every year, millions of devotees visit these sacred shrines, and their journeys bring new life to the local economy,” he noted.
To boost connectivity and tourism, the Prime Minister announced that projects worth over ₹2 lakh crore are currently underway in the state. These include the Rishikesh–Karnaprayag rail line, the near-complete Delhi–Dehradun Expressway, and the upcoming ropeways to Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib. “Better connectivity means better opportunities. These projects will redefine Uttarakhand’s growth,” he said.
Vision 2047: The Road Ahead
Calling upon the people to envision where they want Uttarakhand to be when India celebrates 100 years of independence in 2047, Modi said, “Once we know our goal, the roadmap will follow. This is the moment to set our vision for the next 25 years.”
He urged the state to use its spiritual and natural assets to emerge as the “Spiritual Capital of the World,” connecting temples, ashrams, meditation, and yoga centres to global wellness networks. He proposed that every constituency should develop yoga, Ayurveda, and naturopathy centres along with homestays to build a “complete wellness package” for global visitors.
Harnessing Local Strengths and Vibrant Villages
Underlining the government’s focus on border development, Modi said the Vibrant Villages Programme would transform remote border villages into local tourism hubs. “Imagine visitors enjoying local dishes like dubke, rot-arsa, and jhangore ki kheer while living in homestays surrounded by the Himalayas — these experiences will stay with them forever,” he said.
He suggested an “One District, One Festival” initiative to showcase Uttarakhand’s traditional fairs such as Nanda Devi, Bageshwar’s Uttarayani, and Devidhura on the global stage. “Each of these festivals is a living reflection of our culture and community spirit,” he said.
Modi also encouraged expanding horticulture and MSMEs, particularly in food processing, handicrafts, and organic farming. He said the cultivation of blueberries, kiwis, and aromatic herbs could define the future of mountain farming.
Winter Tourism in India
The Prime Minister praised Uttarakhand’s success in promoting winter tourism, citing the rise in winter visitors and events such as the high-altitude marathon in Pithoragarh and the Adi Kailash Parikrama Run. “Pilgrimage and year-round tourism are Uttarakhand’s strengths,” he said. He also highlighted the state’s emerging reputation as a film and wedding destination. “For my ‘Wed in India’ campaign, Uttarakhand can be a world-class wedding hub. Let’s develop 5–7 top destinations for this purpose,” he proposed.
Vocal for Local: Powering Aatmanirbhar Bharat
Reiterating the call for Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Modi said Uttarakhand’s tradition of using and celebrating local products perfectly aligns with the national Vocal for Local campaign. He praised the state for securing GI tags for 15 products, including Bedu fruit and Badri cow ghee. “Wherever these products go, they carry the identity of Uttarakhand,” he said.
He also applauded the House of Himalayas initiative, which provides a unified brand identity for Uttarakhand’s diverse products on digital platforms, connecting artisans and farmers directly to global markets.
Governance, Reforms and Confidence
Lauding Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s leadership, Modi said the state government has taken bold and decisive steps on governance reforms — from implementing the Uniform Civil Code to enacting laws on anti-conversion and riot control. “Uttarakhand has shown what strong governance looks like,” he said. He also praised the state’s swift and sensitive approach to disaster management.
Concluding his address, Modi said he firmly believes Uttarakhand will continue to rise as a proud, progressive, and culturally vibrant state. “When India celebrates 100 years of independence, Uttarakhand will stand tall as a symbol of faith, development, and determination,” he said, raising his voice to lead the crowd in unison — “Bharat Mata ki Jai!”