Dehradun: In a landmark event marking the 25th anniversary of Uttarakhand’s formation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for a series of significant development projects in the state, collectively valued at over ₹8,140 crore. The ambitious projects, which span critical sectors such as drinking water, irrigation, technical education, energy, urban development, sports, and skill enhancement, are expected to significantly boost the state’s infrastructure, improve the quality of life for its residents, and accelerate economic growth.

The event, held at the iconic Forest Research Institute (FRI) in Dehradun, drew a massive crowd, with officials reporting that over one lakh people attended the ceremony. This grand celebration of Uttarakhand’s Silver Jubilee was not only a commemoration of the state’s 25-year journey since its formation but also a forward-looking showcase of the government’s commitment to sustainable development and citizen welfare.

During the event, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated projects worth over ₹930 crore and laid the foundation stones for projects valued at more than ₹7,210 crore. These initiatives are designed to address several pressing needs of the state, including ensuring access to clean drinking water, enhancing irrigation facilities for agriculture, expanding renewable energy infrastructure, promoting urban development, fostering sports culture, and facilitating skill development programs.

Support for Farmers

In a significant move to support the agricultural community in Uttarakhand, Prime Minister Modi also announced the direct transfer of ₹62 crore to more than 28,000 farmers under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, the government’s crop insurance scheme. This step is expected to provide immediate financial relief to farmers who have suffered crop losses due to natural calamities, ensuring that they receive timely assistance to continue their farming activities and maintain their livelihoods.

Inaugurated Projects

Among the projects inaugurated during the event, the Dehradun water supply coverage expansion stands out as a key initiative. Under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) scheme, the water supply system in Dehradun has been extended to cover 23 zones, aiming to provide safe and reliable drinking water to the city’s growing population. The project is expected to address long-standing water scarcity issues in several parts of the city and improve the overall urban infrastructure.

Another notable project inaugurated by the Prime Minister was an electrical substation in Pithoragarh district, which will play a crucial role in enhancing the power distribution network and meeting the increasing electricity demands in the region. In addition, several solar power plants have been established in government buildings across the state, reflecting a push towards renewable energy and sustainable development. These solar installations are expected to reduce the state’s dependence on conventional energy sources and contribute to environmental conservation.

In the field of sports, the Prime Minister inaugurated an AstroTurf Hockey Ground at Haldwani Stadium in Nainital. This facility is aimed at promoting sports and nurturing young talent in the state, providing modern infrastructure for athletes to train and compete at higher levels. Such initiatives are expected to encourage youth participation in sports and contribute to building a healthier and more active population.

Foundation Stones for Key Projects

Several major projects also had their foundation stones laid by Prime Minister Modi, signaling the beginning of their construction and future contribution to the state’s development. Among these, the Song Dam Drinking Water Project in Dehradun is particularly significant. Once completed, the project will supply 150 million liters per day (MLD) of drinking water to the city, effectively addressing water scarcity concerns and ensuring a reliable water supply for residents.

In Nainital, the Jamarani Dam Multipurpose Project was another major initiative for which the foundation stone was laid. This project is designed to serve multiple purposes, including supplying drinking water, supporting irrigation for agriculture, and generating hydroelectric power. By integrating water management with energy generation, the project exemplifies a holistic approach to sustainable infrastructure development.

Other projects that had their foundation stones laid include additional electrical substations, which are expected to strengthen the power distribution network across various districts, and the establishment of a Women’s Sports College in Champawat, aimed at promoting sports education and empowering women through enhanced access to training and resources. Additionally, a state-of-the-art dairy plant is planned in Nainital, which will not only improve the quality and production of dairy products in the region but also create employment opportunities for local communities.

Significance of the Silver Jubilee Event

The Silver Jubilee celebrations of Uttarakhand’s formation at the Forest Research Institute were carefully organized to reflect the state’s progress over the past 25 years while highlighting future development goals. The Forest Research Institute, known for its architectural grandeur and historical significance, provided a fitting backdrop for the event. The presence of the Prime Minister underscored the central government’s commitment to supporting Uttarakhand in its development journey.

The event attracted a diverse audience, including political leaders, government officials, members of the public, and representatives from various sectors. It also included cultural performances and exhibitions that showcased the state’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and achievements over the past quarter-century. The celebration served as a reminder of Uttarakhand’s journey from its formation to becoming a hub for tourism, agriculture, education, and renewable energy, while also emphasizing the ongoing efforts to build a modern, sustainable, and inclusive state.

Focus on Sustainable Development and Citizen Welfare

The projects unveiled and initiated by Prime Minister Modi reflect a balanced approach to development, combining infrastructure improvement with social welfare and environmental sustainability. By addressing critical areas such as drinking water, energy, and urban infrastructure, the government aims to ensure that citizens have access to essential services and improved living standards. Similarly, initiatives in the fields of sports, skill development, and education are intended to equip the younger generation with opportunities for personal growth, professional training, and active engagement in the state’s development.

The emphasis on renewable energy, particularly solar power, aligns with the broader national goal of transitioning to clean energy sources and reducing carbon emissions. By integrating sustainable practices into large-scale projects, Uttarakhand is positioned as a model for environmentally conscious development in hilly and ecologically sensitive regions.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Modi’s participation in Uttarakhand’s Silver Jubilee celebrations and the unveiling of development projects worth over ₹8,140 crore underscores the central government’s commitment to accelerating the state’s growth while addressing the needs of its citizens. With initiatives spanning multiple sectors—drinking water, irrigation, energy, urban development, sports, and skill enhancement—the government aims to build a modern, sustainable, and prosperous Uttarakhand.

These projects not only promise immediate benefits such as improved infrastructure, better water supply, and enhanced electricity distribution but also pave the way for long-term development in education, agriculture, renewable energy, and sports. As Uttarakhand celebrates 25 years of statehood, these initiatives mark a significant step toward a future characterized by growth, opportunity, and improved quality of life for all its residents.

With over one lakh people witnessing the grand ceremony at the Forest Research Institute, the Silver Jubilee event served as both a celebration of the past and a visionary look toward Uttarakhand’s continued progress in the years ahead.