Discover how Kashi is leading Purvanchal’s transformation with record-breaking infrastructure, healthcare reforms, women empowerment, and cultural revival, as highlighted during a major event on Hanuman Janmotsav.
In a grand gathering held in the spiritual heart of India—Kashi—an extraordinary celebration unfolded on the eve of Hanuman Janmotsav. The stage was graced by Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, alongside various ministers, public representatives, and notable dignitaries like Chairman of Banas Dairy Shankarbhai Chaudhary. But the real spirit of the event came from the sea of people who gathered to bless the leadership and witness the journey of transformation.
The Prime Minister’s heartfelt address to the people of Banaras reflected not just emotion, but a vision deeply rooted in development and cultural pride. “Kashi is mine, and I belong to Kashi,” he said, summing up the bond between the land and its people.
Kashi: A Confluence of Heritage and Modernity
Over the past ten years, Kashi has undergone a remarkable transformation. What was once a city steeped in tradition is now also a hub of modern infrastructure and progress. Development in Varanasi and the broader Purvanchal region has been multi-dimensional—spanning connectivity, healthcare, education, sports, and economic empowerment. Today, Kashi stands not just as a spiritual beacon, but also as a new epicenter of Eastern India’s economy.
Massive Infrastructure Push Across Purvanchal
Recently, a number of projects were either inaugurated or saw their foundation stones laid. These initiatives include new roads, flyovers, a six-lane underground tunnel near the airport, and improved connectivity to Ghazipur, Jaunpur, Mirzapur, and Azamgarh. The Phulwaria flyover has eased commutes within the city, while the Ring Road project has reduced travel times for those heading to the airport or moving between districts.
A major investment of ₹45,000 crore in Varanasi’s infrastructure has already changed the region’s landscape and promises further growth. Projects related to Bhadohi, Manduadih, and a new bridge to connect Sarnath with Banaras are currently underway, further improving regional mobility and accessibility.
Healthcare Revolution: From Helplessness to Hope
One of the most heart-touching moments came with the distribution of Ayushman Vaya Vandana cards to elderly citizens. These cards guarantee free medical treatment for individuals above 70, ensuring dignity and care for senior citizens. Under the broader Ayushman Bharat Yojana, lakhs across UP have benefited from free healthcare, transforming the healthcare ecosystem in a region once known for its lack of medical facilities.
Hospitals that were once only accessible in Delhi or Mumbai are now available right in Kashi. This shift represents more than healthcare—it signals social equity and accessibility.
Empowering Women Through Dairy and Livelihood
Banas Dairy, an integral part of this developmental journey, has empowered over a lakh farmers in Purvanchal. The bonus payout of ₹100 crore to dairy partners signifies not just income but respect for their contribution. Women, in particular, have emerged as leaders in this space. Many have now become “Lakhpati Didis”—a transformation from subsistence to self-reliance.
Efforts like free vaccinations for livestock, distribution of Gir cows, and access to fodder are reshaping animal husbandry in the region. Through the Rashtriya Gokul Mission and revitalization of 20,000 dairy cooperatives, India’s dairy sector has been fortified, with UP playing a lead role.
Celebrating Social Reformers: Jyotiba and Savitribai Phule
On the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, the legacy of social justice and women’s empowerment was rightly honored. The Prime Minister underlined how the movement for women’s welfare, initiated by Jyotiba and Savitribai Phule, continues in full force today under the principle of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.
Contrasting this inclusive approach with the “Parivaar Ka Vikas” ideology of opposition parties, the Prime Minister emphasized that real development is people-centric, not family-centric.
Kashi: Nurturing Youth and Sporting Dreams
With an eye on the 2036 Olympics, a new sports complex has been inaugurated in Banaras, complete with modern training facilities for young athletes. Programs like the Sansad Khelkud Pratiyogita are giving grassroots talent a platform to shine.
Sports are not the only area where youth are being empowered. New educational facilities and increased job opportunities are ensuring that the young minds of Purvanchal can dream bigger and achieve more.
Reviving Cultural Identity with Global Recognition
UP’s cultural and artistic heritage is being celebrated on a global stage through the GI (Geographical Indication) tag movement. More than 30 products from Varanasi and nearby districts—including tabla, shehnai, thandai, Lal bharwa mirch, and tricolour barfi—now carry GI tags. These products, deeply rooted in local culture, are finding markets far beyond India’s borders.
Other unique crafts and items from Jaunpur, Mathura, Bundelkhand, Pilibhit, Prayagraj, Bareilly, Chitrakoot, and Lakhimpur Kheri have also received the GI tag, giving artisans and farmers the recognition and market access they long deserved.
Ekta Mall: Celebrating Unity in Diversity
The announcement of the Ekta Mall in Kashi is another step toward fostering national unity. It will showcase and sell traditional goods from across India, celebrating the country’s diversity under one roof. Initiatives like the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam also aim to deepen cultural bonds between regions.
