On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Uttarakhand’s 25th Formation Day by inaugurating and laying the foundation for multiple development projects valued at $980 million, highlighting the State’s rapid transformation since its creation in 2000.
Wearing a traditional Pahari cap, Modi addressed a massive gathering in Dehradun, where he praised the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami for implementing significant reforms, including the Uniform Civil Code, which he described as a model for other Indian States. The Prime Minister also commended the State’s firm stance on anti-conversion and riot-control laws, calling them decisive steps toward maintaining social harmony and governance stability.
Modi lauded the government’s proactive measures against land encroachments and demographic shifts, as well as its efficient disaster management efforts, ensuring swift support to affected communities. He reflected on Uttarakhand’s statehood movement, paying homage to those who lost their lives in pursuit of the dream that became a reality 25 years ago during the tenure of the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Expressing his deep personal bond with the people of the region, Modi used phrases in Garhwali and Kumaoni to connect with the audience, emphasizing how the perseverance and culture of Uttarakhand continue to inspire him. He celebrated the State’s spiritual heritage, highlighting its Char Dham temples, ashrams, and yoga and meditation centers, envisioning Uttarakhand as the future “spiritual capital of the world.”
The Prime Minister also touched on the State’s growing cultural and tourism appeal, noting that Uttarakhand is emerging as both a film shooting hub and a popular wedding destination for people from across the globe. He even praised local delicacies such as dubke, chudkani, ras-bhaat, rot-arsa, and jhangore ki kheer, calling them symbols of the region’s rich tradition.
Modi highlighted that despite challenges, Uttarakhand has maintained steady progress under Dhami’s leadership. The newly launched projects span key sectors like drinking water, irrigation, education, energy, sports, and urban development, forming part of a larger infrastructure pipeline worth over $24 billion, including landmark ventures such as the Char Dham ropeway and the Rishikesh–Karnaprayag rail project.
He concluded by reaffirming his vision of Uttarakhand as a State where tradition meets transformation, driving India’s growth while staying rooted in its cultural essence.
