Details

Written by: JK Monitor News Network

Category: Headlines

• PM inaugurates Chenab bridge - world’s highest railway arch bridge and Anji bridge - India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge
• The inauguration of mega infrastructure projects today marks a turning point in Jammu and Kashmir's development journey: PM
• We have always invoked Maa Bharati with deep reverence, saying 'from Kashmir to Kanyakumari,’ Today, this has become a reality even in our railway network: PM
• The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Line Project is a symbol of a new, empowered Jammu & Kashmir and a resounding proclamation of India's growing strength: PM
• The Chenab and Anji Bridges will serve as gateways to prosperity for Jammu and Kashmir: PM
• Jammu and Kashmir is the crown jewel of India: PM
• India won't bow to terrorism,the youth of Jammu and Kashmir have now made up their mind to give a befitting reply to terrorism: PM
• Whenever Pakistan hears the name Operation Sindoor, it will be reminded of its shameful defeat: PM

KATRA: The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth over Rs 46,000 crore at Katra, Jammu & Kashmir today. Saluting the land of the brave Veer Zorawar Singh, he remarked that today’s event is a grand celebration of India’s unity and determination. Shri Modi said that with the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi, the Valley of Kashmir is now connected to India’s vast railway network.

“We have always invoked Maa Bharati with deep reverence, saying 'from Kashmir to Kanyakumari,’ today, this has become a reality even in our railway network”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, emphasising that the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Line Project is not just a name but a symbol of Jammu and Kashmir’s new strength and a testament to India’s growing capabilities. In line with the commitment to boost rail infrastructure and connectivity in the region, he inaugurated the Chenab and Anji rail bridges and flagged off Vande Bharat Trains, enhancing connectivity within Jammu and Kashmir.

Additionally, Shri Modi also laid the foundation stone for a new medical college in Jammu, reinforcing the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare facilities in the region, stating that ₹46,000 crore worth of projects will accelerate development in Jammu and Kashmir, driving progress and prosperity. The Prime Minister extended his best wishes and congratulated the people on this new era of growth and transformation.

Underlining that generations in Jammu and Kashmir had long dreamt of railway connectivity, Shri Modi said today, that dream has become a reality. Referring to a recent statement by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the Prime Minister noted that even as a student in seventh or eighth grade, Shri Abdullah had been anticipating the completion of this project. Shri Modi emphasized that the fulfillment of this long-awaited aspiration marks a historic moment for millions of people in Jammu and Kashmir, paving the way for enhanced connectivity and progress.

Stating that it is a privilege for their government that this ambitious railway project gained momentum during their tenure and has now been successfully completed, Shri Modi emphasized the challenges encountered, like the difficult terrain, extreme weather conditions, and falling rocks in the mountains, making the project immensely tough and demanding. However, he remarked that their government has consistently chosen to face challenges head-on and overcome them with determination. The Prime Minister noted that numerous all-weather infrastructure projects underway in Jammu and Kashmir exemplify this commitment.

He cited the recently opened Sonmarg Tunnel and his experience traveling over the Chenab Bridge and Anji Bridge as remarkable milestones. Shri Modi lauded the engineering brilliance and unwavering dedication of India’s engineers and workers, stating that the Chenab Bridge, the world's tallest railway arch bridge, stands as a testament to India’s ambition. He observed that while people travel to Paris to see the Eiffel Tower, the Chenab Bridge surpasses it in height, making it not only a crucial infrastructure achievement but also an emerging tourist attraction.

Similarly, the Prime Minister described the Anji Bridge as an engineering marvel, being India's first cable-supported railway bridge. He asserted that these structures are not just steel and concrete, but living symbols of India’s strength, standing tall in the rugged Pir Panjal mountains. Shri Modi declared that these achievements represent India’s vision for a developed nation, proving that as grand as India's dream of progress is, so too is its resilience, capability, and determination. Above all, he emphasized that pure intentions and relentless dedication are the driving forces behind India's transformation.

Emphasizing that both Chenab Bridge and Anji Bridge will serve as catalysts for prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir, the Prime Minister said, “these landmark projects will not only boost tourism but also benefit various sectors of the economy, creating new opportunities for businesses and industries”. He highlighted that enhanced rail connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir will open new doors for local entrepreneurs, driving economic growth. Shri Modi noted that Kashmir’s apples will now reach major markets across India at lower costs, making trade more efficient.

Furthermore, dry fruits and Kashmir’s renowned Pashmina shawls, along with other traditional handicrafts, will now be easily transported to every corner of the country, strengthening the region’s artisanal industry. The Prime Minister stated that this improved connectivity will also make travel more convenient for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, allowing smoother movement across different parts of India.

Shri Modi shared a touching comment from a student in Sangaldan, who stated that until now, only those who had traveled outside their village had seen a train in real life. Most villagers had only watched trains in videos, unable to believe that soon, a real train would pass right before their eyes. The Prime Minister also mentioned that many residents are already memorizing train schedules, excited about the new connectivity. He highlighted a thoughtful remark from a young girl who stated, now, the weather will no longer decide whether the roads remain open or closed.

This new train service will help people in all seasons. “Jammu and Kashmir as the crown of Mother India, adorned with dazzling jewels—each representing the region’s immense strength and beauty”, described the Prime Minister, praising its ancient culture, traditions, spiritual consciousness, breathtaking landscapes, medicinal herbs, flourishing orchards, and vibrant youth talent, stating that these qualities shine like precious gemstones in India’s crown. Having visited Jammu and Kashmir for decades, the Prime Minister affirmed his deep understanding of the region’s potential and reiterated his dedication to the continuous development and upliftment of Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring prosperity for its people.

“Jammu and Kashmir has long been a pillar of India’s education and cultural heritage”, affirmed the Prime Minister. He added that as India establishes itself as a global knowledge hub, the growing participation of Jammu and Kashmir in this transformation. Shri Modi pointed out the presence of premier institutions such as IIT, IIM, AIIMS, and NIT, alongside Central Universities in Jammu and Srinagar, strengthening academic excellence in the region. He also noted the expansion of the research ecosystem, further enhancing innovation and learning opportunities. 

The Prime Minister emphasized that remarkable advancements have been made in healthcare, with two state-level cancer institutes established in recent years. Over the last five years, seven new medical colleges have been opened, significantly benefiting both patients and aspiring medical students. Shri Modi highlighted that MBBS seats in Jammu and Kashmir have risen from 500 to 1,300, ensuring greater access to medical education. Additionally, the Reasi district is set to receive a new medical college, enhancing healthcare facilities for the region.

The Prime Minister praised the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence, describing it as not only a modern hospital but also an embodiment of India’s rich tradition of philanthropy. He also lauded the contributions of devotees from across India, whose donations helped establish the institution. Extending his best wishes, Shri Modi congratulated the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board for its dedicated efforts in this noble endeavor. He also announced that the hospital’s capacity would be expanded from 300 to 500 beds, further improving medical services. The Prime Minister noted that this development would provide greater convenience to devotees visiting Mata Vaishno Devi in Katra.

Highlighting that their government has now completed 11 years in office, dedicating this period to uplifting the poor and empowering citizens, the Prime Minister outlined several key welfare initiatives that have transformed millions of lives. He listed out the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, which has fulfilled the dream of 4 crore poor families by providing pucca houses. Ujjwala Yojana, which has helped eliminate smoke from 10 crore households, protecting the health of women and children. Ayushman Bharat, which enabled 50 crore underprivileged citizens to receive free healthcare up to ₹5 lakh. He added that Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, ensured food security, filling every plate with adequate nutrition while the Jan Dhan Yojana, helped open banking access for over 50 crore poor individuals, bringing them into the financial system.

The Prime Minister further mentioned Saubhagya Yojana, which delivered electricity to 2.5 crore families living in darkness and Swachh Bharat Mission, under which 12 crore toilets were built, eliminating the challenge of open defecation. He added that the Jal Jeevan Mission provided tap water to 12 crore households, easing the burden on women, while the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi offered direct financial support to 10 crore small farmers, strengthening rural India. 

Shri Modi stated that over 25 crore people have successfully overcome poverty in the last 11 years, transitioning into the neo-middle class. He emphasized that the government remains committed to strengthening both the poor and the emerging middle class, ensuring economic and social security through key reforms. The Prime Minister cited initiatives such as One Rank, One Pension, tax exemption on salaries up to ₹12 lakh, financial support for home buyers, and assistance for affordable air travel, affirming that the government stands shoulder to shoulder with the people, driving progress for all. He added that it was for the first time since independence that their government had worked for the honest, tax-paying middle class. 

Underlining that their government is consistently creating new employment opportunities for the youth, with tourism emerging as a significant driver of economic growth and connectivity, Shri Modi  highlighted that tourism not only generates jobs but also fosters unity among people. Condemning Pakistan’s repeated attempts to disrupt this progress, the Prime Minister stated that it stands against humanity, social harmony, and economic prosperity. Referring to the April 22 incident in Pahalgam, Shri Modi asserted that Pakistan attacked both Kashmiriyat and humanity, intending to incite violence in India and cripple the earnings of hardworking Kashmiris.

He pointed out that this deliberate attack on tourists was meant to sabotage the flourishing tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir, which had witnessed record-high visitor numbers over the past few years. The Prime Minister remarked that Pakistan’s malicious intent directly impacted local workers, including horse riders, porters, guides, guest house owners, and shopkeepers, aiming to destroy their livelihoods. He praised the courage of young Adil, who stood against terrorists, but tragically lost his life while striving to support his family through honest labor. Shri Modi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to protecting the people of Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring that terrorism will never succeed in halting the region’s progress.

Lauding the resilience of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, the Prime Minister stated that their firm stand against Pakistan’s conspiracy sends a powerful message. He remarked that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir are now determined to confront terrorism head-on. Shri Modi condemned the destructive impact of terrorism, recalling how it burned schools, devastated hospitals, and shattered generations in the valley. He noted that terrorism even made free and fair elections a major challenge, depriving people of their right to choose their representatives. The Prime Minister affirmed that the strength and determination displayed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir marks a turning point, signaling their commitment to peace, progress, and a brighter future.

Shri Modi stated that for years, Jammu and Kashmir endured terrorism, leading many to abandon their dreams and accept violence as their fate. However, he emphasized that their government has changed this reality, enabling the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to dream again—and fulfill those dreams. The Prime Minister expressed that Kashmir’s youth now take joy in seeing bustling markets, vibrant shopping malls, and flourishing cinema halls.

He noted that locals aspire to revive Jammu and Kashmir as a premier destination for film shoots and develop it into a hub for sports. Shri Modi cited the Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela, where thousands of devotees gathered, reflecting the new, optimistic face of Jammu and Kashmir. He also highlighted the excitement surrounding the upcoming Amarnath Yatra and the festive spirit of Eid, demonstrating the region’s resilience and progress. Firmly asserting that the momentum of development in Jammu and Kashmir will not be shaken by the Pahalgam attack, the Prime Minister reassured the people that nothing will hinder the region’s growth, declaring that any obstacle threatening the dreams of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth will have to face himself.

Recalling that exactly one month ago, on this very night, India executed Operation Sindoor, delivering a decisive blow to Pakistan-based terrorists, the Prime Minister said, “whenever Pakistan hears the name of operation Sindoor, it will be reminded of its humiliating defeat”. He emphasized that Pakistan’s military and terror networks never anticipated India’s bold move, and within minutes, the terror infrastructure they had built over decades was reduced to ruins. Shri Modi stated that Pakistan was left in shock and frustration, reacting by targeting innocent civilians in Jammu, Poonch, and other districts.

He condemned Pakistan’s brutal attacks, pointing out that the world witnessed how it destroyed homes, bombed schools and hospitals, and shelled temples, mosques, and gurudwaras. The Prime Minister praised the resilience of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, stating that their courage in facing Pakistan’s aggression has been seen by every Indian. He reaffirmed the commitment declaring that every citizen stands with full strength beside the families affected, ensuring unwavering support and solidarity.

Prime Minister announced that families who lost loved ones due to cross-border firing have already received appointment letters for government assistance. Recognizing the hardship faced by over 2,000 families affected by shelling, Shri Modi affirmed that their pain is the nation's pain. He stated that financial aid was previously provided for home repairs, ensuring relief for those impacted. The Prime Minister further declared that the Central Government has now decided to enhance this support, offering greater assistance to affected families. Prime Minister announced additional financial aid for families whose homes were damaged due to cross-border shelling. He stated that households suffering severe damage will now receive ₹2 lakh, while partially damaged homes will be granted ₹1 lakh in additional assistance, beyond the support already provided earlier. Shri Modi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to standing by affected families, ensuring continued relief and helping them rebuild their homes and lives.

“The government recognizes border residents as the nation's frontline protectors”, affirmed the Prime Minister. He said that over the past decade, unprecedented efforts have been made to strengthen development and security in border districts. Highlighting key initiatives, Shri Modi stated that approximately 10,000 new bunkers have been constructed, which played a critical role in safeguarding lives during the aftermath of Operation Sindoor. The Prime Minister announced the formation of two new Border Battalions for the Jammu and Kashmir division, further enhancing security operations in the region. Additionally, he shared that two dedicated Women Battalions have also been successfully established, reinforcing defense capabilities and empowering women in the armed forces.

Highlighting the significant infrastructure development taking place in India’s international border regions, particularly in challenging terrains, the Prime Minister announced that hundreds of crores are being invested to improve connectivity and security. He stated that the Kathua-Jammu Highway is being upgraded into a six-lane expressway, while the Akhnoor-Poonch Highway is undergoing widening to facilitate smoother travel. Under the Vibrant Village Program, development initiatives in border villages have been accelerated, ensuring better living conditions and opportunities for residents. Shri Modi mentioned that 400 villages in Jammu and Kashmir, previously lacking all-weather connectivity, are now being linked with 1,800 kilometers of newly constructed roads. He announced that the government is allocating over ₹4,200 crore for these infrastructure projects, reinforcing economic growth and regional development in border areas.

Prime Minister made a special appeal to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, urging them to actively participate in India’s manufacturing revolution. He emphasized that Operation Sindoor demonstrated the strength of Atmanirbhar Bharat, and today, the world is recognizing India’s defense ecosystem. Attributing this success to the armed forces’ trust in ‘Make in India’, stating that every Indian must now emulate their commitment, the Prime Minister highlighted the Mission Manufacturing initiative, announced in this year’s budget, aimed at accelerating India’s manufacturing sector.

He called upon young innovators and entrepreneurs in Jammu and Kashmir to join this mission, stating that India needs their modern thinking, innovation, ideas, and skills to elevate national security and economic growth. Shri Modi remarked that India has emerged as a leading defense exporter over the past decade, and the next goal is to position India among the world’s top defense exporters. He asserted that the faster India moves toward this objective, the more employment opportunities will be generated nationwide, benefiting millions.

Calling upon every Indian to make a commitment to prioritize products made in India, Shri Modi emphasised that these goods are a true reflection of the hard work and dedication of fellow citizens. He asserted that choosing Indian-made products is the real service to the nation, strengthening the economy and empowering workers. The  Prime Minister urged that just as the nation honors its armed forces at the borders, it must also uphold the pride of ‘Made in India’ in the market, ensuring that India’s strength is reflected in both defense and commerce.

Prime Minister affirmed that a bright and prosperous future awaits Jammu and Kashmir, as both the Central Government and the state government continue to work together toward development. He emphasized the spirit of collaboration and progress, ensuring that peace and prosperity remain the foundation of this journey. The Prime Minister expressed his unwavering resolve to strengthen the path of growth, driven by the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi. He reiterated the commitment to a developed India and a developed Jammu and Kashmir, striving to achieve this vision with determination and unity. Shri Modi concluded by extending his heartfelt congratulations to the people for these remarkable projects, celebrating the spirit of advancement.

The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Omar Abdullah, Union Ministers Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Shri V. Somanna & Dr. Jitendra Singh were present among other dignitaries at the event.

Background

Chenab and Anji rail bridges

The architectural marvel Chenab Rail Bridge, situated at a height of 359 meters above the river, is the world's highest railway arch bridge. It is a 1,315-metre-long steel arch bridge engineered to withstand seismic and wind conditions. A key impact of the bridge will be in enhancing connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar. Through Vande Bharat train moving on the bridge, it will take just about 3 hours to travel between Katra and Srinagar, reducing existing travel time by 2-3 hours.

The Anji Bridge is India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge that will serve the nation in a challenging terrain.

Connectivity projects and other development initiatives

Prime Minister also dedicated Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project to the nation. The 272 km long USBRL project, constructed worth around Rs 43,780 crore includes 36 tunnels (spanning 119 km) and 943 bridges. The project establishes all-weather, seamless rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country aiming to transform regional mobility and driving socio-economic integration.

Prime Minister also flagged off two Vande Bharat Express trains from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar and back. They will offer a swift, comfortable, and reliable travel option for residents, tourists, pilgrims among others.

In a major boost to last mile connectivity especially in border areas, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone and inaugurated various road projects. He laid the foundation stone of road widening project from Rafiabad to Kupwara on National Highway-701 and the construction of Shopian bypass road on NH-444 worth over Rs 1,952 crore. He also inaugurated two flyover projects at Sangrama Junction on National Highway-1 in Srinagar and at Bemina Junction on National Highway-44. These projects will ease traffic congestion and enhance traffic flow for the commuters.

Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence in Katra worth over Rs 350 crore. It will be the first medical college in Reasi district contributing substantially to the healthcare infrastructure in the region.

English rendering of PM’s address at the launch of various development projects in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir

ॐ माता वैष्णो देवी दे चरने च मत्था टेकना जय माता दी,

Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha Ji, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Ji, my colleagues in the Union Cabinet Ashwini Vaishnav Ji, Jitendra Singh Ji, V Somanna Ji, Deputy CM Surendra Kumar Ji, Leader of Opposition in Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Sunil Ji, my colleague in Parliament Jugal Kishore Ji, other public representatives and my dear brothers and sisters. This is the land of Veer Zorawar Singh Ji, I salute this land.

Friends, 

Today's program is a huge celebration of India's unity and India's willpower. With the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi, today the valley of Kashmir has been connected to India's rail network. While describing Maa Bharati, we have been saying with reverence - Kashmir to Kanyakumari. This has now become a reality for the railway network as well. Udhampur, Srinagar, Baramulla, these rail line projects, these are not just names. These are the identity of the new strength of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a proclamation of India's new strength. A short while ago I had the opportunity to inaugurate the Chenab Bridge and Anji Bridge. Today itself, Jammu and Kashmir has received two new Vande Bharat trains. Here in Jammu, the foundation stone of a new medical college has been laid. Projects worth Rs 46 thousand crores will give new impetus to the development of Jammu and Kashmir. I congratulate all of you for the new era of development. This is the land of Haji. I salute this land.

Friends, 

Many generations of Jammu and Kashmir have passed away dreaming of rail connectivity. Yesterday I was watching a statement by CM Omar Abdullah ji and also mentioned in the speech that he had also said that he was waiting for the completion of this project since the time he was studying in 7th-8th standard. Today the dream of millions of people of Jammu and Kashmir has come true. And this is also true that all the good work is still left for me.

Friends, 

It is the good fortune of our government that this project gained momentum during our tenure and we completed it. In between, many difficulties came due to the period of Covid, but we stood firm.

Friends, 

Difficulties in commuting, weather problems, stones constantly falling from the mountains, it was difficult and challenging to complete this project. But our government has chosen the path of challenging the challenge itself. Today, many all-weather infrastructure projects being built in Jammu and Kashmir are an example of this. Sonmarg tunnel was started only a few months ago. Just a while ago, I came among you through Chenab and Anji Bridge. While walking on these bridges, I have experienced the strong resolve of India, the skill and courage of our engineers and workers. Chenab Bridge is the world's highest railway arch bridge. People go to Paris, France to see the Eiffel Tower.

And this bridge is much higher than the Eiffel Tower. Now people will not only go to see Kashmir via Chenab Bridge, but this bridge will also become an attractive tourist destination in itself. Everyone will go to the selfie point and take selfies. Our Anji Bridge is also a great example of engineering. This is India's first cable-supported railway bridge. Both these bridges are not just structures of brick, cement, steel and iron, they are a living symbol of India's power, standing on the inaccessible hills of Pir Panjal. This is the roar of India's bright future. This shows that as big as the dream of a developed India is, so high is our courage and our capability. And the most important thing is good intention and immense effort.

Friends, 

Be it Chenab Bridge or Anji Bridge, these will become a means of prosperity for both the regions of Jammu and Kashmir. This will not only increase tourism but will also benefit other sectors of the economy. Rail connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir will create new opportunities for businessmen of both regions. This will give impetus to the industry here, now Kashmir's apples will be able to reach the big markets of the country at a low cost and will be able to reach on time. Be it dry fruits or pashmina shawls, the handicrafts here will now be easily able to reach any part of the country. This will also make it very easy for the people of Jammu and Kashmir to travel to other parts of the country.

Friends, 

I was reading a comment in the newspaper by a student from Sangaldan here. That student said that only those people of his village who had gone out of the village had seen the train till now. Most of the people of the village had only seen the video of the train. They still can't believe that a real train will pass in front of their eyes. I also read that many people are remembering the arrival and departure timings of the trains. Another daughter said a very good thing, that daughter said – now the weather will not decide whether the roads will open or remain closed, now this new train service will keep helping the people in every season.

Friends, 

Jammu and Kashmir is the crown of Maa Bharati. This crown is studded with beautiful gems. These different gems are the strength of Jammu and Kashmir. The ancient culture here, the traditions here, the spiritual consciousness here, the beauty of nature, the world of herbs here, the abundance of fruits and flowers, the talent that is present in the youth here, in you people, it shines like a jewel in the crown.

Friends, 

You know very well that I have been visiting Jammu and Kashmir for decades. I have had the opportunity to visit and live in interior areas. I have constantly seen and felt this potential and that is why I am working with full dedication towards the development of Jammu and Kashmir.

Friends, 

Jammu and Kashmir has been the pride of India's education and culture. Today, our Jammu and Kashmir is becoming one of the biggest knowledge hubs of the world, so the participation of Jammu and Kashmir in this is also going to increase in the future. There are institutions like IIT, IIM, AIIMS and NIT here. There are central universities in Jammu and Srinagar. The research ecosystem is also expanding in Jammu and Kashmir.

Friends, 

Along with studies, unprecedented work is also being done here for medicine. In the last few years, two state level cancer institutes have been established. Seven new medical colleges have been started here in the last five years. You also know that when a medical college opens, not only the patients but also the youth of that area get the most benefit from it. Now the number of MBBS seats in Jammu and Kashmir has increased from 500 to 1300. I am happy that now Reasi district is also going to get a new medical college. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence, this is not only a modern hospital, it is also an example of our culture of charity.

The money spent to build this medical college has been donated by people coming to pay obeisance to the feet of Mata Vaishno Devi from every corner of India. I convey my best wishes to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board and its Chairman Manoj Ji for this sacred work. The capacity of this hospital is also being increased from 300 beds to 500 beds. This will also be very convenient for the people coming to visit Mata Vaishno Devi in ​​Katra.

Friends, 

The BJP-NDA government at the Centre has been in power for 11 years now. These 11 years have been dedicated to the welfare of the poor. The dream of a concrete house for 4 crore poor people has been fulfilled through Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. The Ujjwala Yojana has ended the smoke in 10 crore kitchens, our sisters and daughters have been protected. The Ayushman Bharat Yojana has provided free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh to 50 crore poor people. The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana has ensured enough food in every plate.

For the first time, the Jan Dhan Yojana has opened the doors of banks for more than 50 crore poor people. The Saubhagya Yojana has brought electricity to 2.5 crore families living in darkness. The 12 crore toilets built under the Swachh Bharat Mission have freed people from the compulsion of open defecation. The Jal Jeevan Mission has brought tap water to 12 crore new homes, making life easier for women. The PM Kisan Samman Nidhi has provided direct financial assistance to 10 crore small farmers.

Friends, 

Due to many such efforts of the government, in the last 11 years, more than 25 crore poor people, our own poor brothers and sisters, have fought against poverty and 25 crore poor people have come out of poverty by defeating and conquering poverty. Now they have become a part of the new middle class. Those who consider themselves experts of the social system, big experts, those who are immersed in the politics of the past and the future, those who have been making political gains in the name of Dalits, just take a look at the schemes that I have just mentioned. Who are the people who have received these facilities, who are those people who were deprived of these basic facilities for 7-7 decades after independence.

These are my Dalit brothers and sisters, these are my tribal brothers and sisters, these are my backward brothers and sisters, these are the people who live in the mountains, these are the people who live in the forests, these are the people who spend their entire lives in slums, these are the families for whom Modi has spent his 11 years. The central government is trying to give maximum strength to the poor, the new middle class. Be it one rank one pension, making salary up to Rs. 12 lakh tax free, giving financial assistance for buying a house, helping for cheap air travel, in every way, the government is walking shoulder to shoulder with the poor and the middle class.

Friends, 

Helping the poor to get rid of poverty, but also increasing the potential of the middle class, who live honestly and pay taxes for the country from time to time, for the first time in independence, so much work has been done for this, which we have done.

Friends, 

We are continuously increasing new employment opportunities for our youth. And one important means of this is tourism. Tourism provides employment, tourism connects people. But unfortunately, our neighbouring country is against humanity, against harmony, against tourism, not only this, it is also against the livelihood of the poor. What happened in Pahalgam on 22 April is an example of this. Pakistan attacked both humanity and Kashmiriyat in Pahalgam. His intention was to create riots in India. His intention was to stop the earnings of the hard-working people of Kashmir. That is why Pakistan attacked the tourists. The tourism that was growing continuously in the last 4-5 years, every year a record number of tourists were coming here.

The tourism that sustains the households of the poor in Jammu and Kashmir, was targeted by Pakistan. Some were horse riders, some were porters, some were guides, some were guest house owners, some were shop-dhaba owners, Pakistan's conspiracy was to destroy all of them. The young man Adil who challenged the terrorists, he too had gone there to do labour work, but he was working so that he could take care of his family. The terrorists also killed Adil.

Friends, 

The way the people of Jammu and Kashmir have stood up against this conspiracy of Pakistan, the power that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have shown this time, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have given a strong message not just to Pakistan but to the terrorist mentality of the whole world. The youth of Jammu and Kashmir have now made up their mind to give a befitting reply to terrorism. This is the terrorism that burnt down schools in the valley, and not just schools or buildings, it burnt the future of two generations. Hospitals were destroyed. It ruined many generations. The people here could choose representatives of their choice, elections could be held here, this too had become a big challenge due to terrorism.

Friends, 

After enduring terrorism for years, Jammu and Kashmir had seen so much destruction that the people of Jammu and Kashmir had stopped dreaming, and had accepted terrorism as their fate. It was necessary to get Jammu and Kashmir out of this situation, and we have done it. Today, the youth of Jammu and Kashmir are dreaming new dreams and are also realizing them. Now the youth of Kashmir are happy to see the markets, shopping malls, cinema halls buzzing. The people here want to see Jammu and Kashmir become a major center for film shooting again, want to see this region become a hub of sports.

We have seen the same sentiment in the fair of Mata Kheer Bhavani as well. The way thousands of people reached the temple of Mata, it shows the picture of new Jammu and Kashmir. Now the Amarnath Yatra is also going to start from the 3rd. We are also seeing the excitement of Eid everywhere. The environment of development that was created in Jammu and Kashmir is not going to be shaken by the Pahalgam attack. Narendra Modi's promise to all of you in Jammu and Kashmir and to all of you is that I will not let development stop here. If any obstacle comes in the way of the youth here from fulfilling their dreams, then Modi will be the first one to face that obstacle.

Friends, 

Today is 6th June, remember a month ago, exactly a month ago, on that night of 6th May, Pakistan's terrorists were doomed. Now whenever Pakistan hears the name of Operation Sindoor, it will remember its shameful defeat. The Pakistani army and terrorists had never imagined that India would attack terrorists like this by going hundreds of kilometers inside Pakistan.

The buildings of terror that they had built with years of hard work have turned into ruins in a few minutes. Seeing this, Pakistan got very agitated and it vented its anger on the people of Jammu, Poonch and other districts too. The whole world saw how Pakistan destroyed homes here, threw shells on children, destroyed schools and hospitals, shelled temples, mosques and gurudwaras. Every citizen of the country has seen the way you countered Pakistan's attacks. That is why every citizen of the country stands with their families with full strength.

Friends, 

A few days ago, appointment letters were handed over to the family members of those who died in cross border firing. The suffering of more than 2 thousand families affected by shelling is also our own suffering. These families were given financial help to repair their houses after the shelling. Now the Central Government has decided to increase this assistance further. In today's program, I also want to give you information about this.

Friends, 

Now, those houses which have suffered extensive damage will be given Rs 2 lakhs and those houses which are partially damaged will be given Rs 1 lakhs as additional assistance. This means that now they will get this extra amount after the first-time assistance.

Friends, 

Our government considers the people living on the border as the first sentinels of the country. In the last decade, the government has done unprecedented work for development and security in the border districts, during this period about ten thousand new bunkers have been built. These bunkers have helped a lot in saving lives in the situation created after Operation Sindoor. I am happy to tell you that two border battalions have been formed for the Jammu and Kashmir division. The work of forming two women battalions has also been completed.

Friends, 

Even in the remote areas near our international border, new infrastructure is being built by spending hundreds of crores of rupees. The Kathua to Jammu highway is being made a six-lane expressway, the Akhnoor to Poonch highway is also being widened. Under the Vibrant Village Program, development work in border villages is also being accelerated. 400 villages of Jammu and Kashmir that did not have all-weather connectivity are being connected by laying 1800 kilometers of new roads. The government is going to spend more than 4200 crores on this too.

Friends, 

Today I have come to make a special request to you people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially the youth here, and from the land of Jammu and Kashmir, I want to make a request to the country as well. You have seen how Operation Sindoor has shown the power of self-reliant India. Today the world is discussing India's defence ecosystem. And there is only one reason behind this, our forces' faith in 'Make in India'. Now every Indian has to repeat what the forces have done. In this year's budget, we have announced Mission Manufacturing. Under this mission, the government is working to give a new impetus to manufacturing.

I would like to tell the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, come and be a part of this mission. The country needs your modern thinking, the country needs your innovation. Your ideas, your skills will give new heights to India's security and India's economy. In the last ten years, India has become a big defence exporter. Now our goal is to include India's name among the top defence exporters of the world. The faster we move towards this goal; the faster millions of new employment opportunities will be created in India.

Friends, 

We have to take another pledge that we should first buy only those products which are made in India and in which the sweat of our countrymen is used and this is patriotism, this is service to the nation. We have to enhance the honour of our forces at the border and we have to enhance the pride of Made in India in the market.

Friends, 

A golden and bright future awaits Jammu and Kashmir. The central government and the state government are working together for development and are supporting each other. We have to continuously strengthen the path of peace and prosperity on which we are moving ahead. With the blessings of Maa Vaishno Devi, may this resolution of developed India and developed Jammu and Kashmir be fulfilled. With this wish, I once again congratulate all of you for these numerous development projects and for so many wonderful projects. Close both your fists and say with me with all your strength -

Bharat Mata ki Jai! The voice should reverberate in every corner of India.

Bharat Mata ki Jai! 

Bharat Mata ki Jai!