Varanasi, Apr 11 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the country's identity in the world has changed in the last ten years and today's India is moving ahead with development and heritage.

The PM inaugurated and laid the foundation of 44 development projects worth Rs 3,900 crore for Kashi and Purvanchal from his parliamentary constituency Varanasi.

He received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from the people of Kashi.

Addressing a massive public gathering in Mehandiganj, Modi connected with the audience in their local language, Bhojpuri. Repeatedly expressing his deep emotional bond with the city, he said, “Kashi is mine, and I belong to Kashi.”

He said that the government's motto is 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', as opposed to the ideology of 'family-first politics'. "Such people are only focused on grabbing power following the principle of 'family's support, family’s development',” he said.

Highlighting Varanasi's remarkable transformation over the past decade, the PM said that Kashi has not only preserved its ancient heritage but has also embraced modernity and taken strong steps toward a brighter future. “Kashi is no longer just ancient, it is now progressive too,” he said.

He highlighted that the city is positioned at the center of Purvanchal's economic map. “The Kashi guided by Lord Mahadev is now driving the chariot of development for Purvanchal ” he said.

He described the blend of Kashi’s rich cultural legacy and its rapidly developing infrastructure as a unique model for India’s growth journey.

Mentioning the inauguration and foundation laying of numerous projects connected to Kashi and various parts of Purvanchal earlier in the event, Modi emphasised the strengthening of connectivity through infrastructure projects, the campaign to provide tap water to every household and the expansion of education, health and sports facilities.

He said that these initiatives will serve as milestones in transforming Purvanchal into a developed region. He assured that every resident of Kashi will benefit from these initiatives.

Some of the major projects include the expansion of Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, construction of flyovers at Bhikharipur and Manduadih and a new bridge connecting Banaras and Sarnath.

During the event, Ayushman Vay Vandana health cards were distributed to elderly citizens. The scheme provides free medical treatment for senior citizens above the age of 70.

Modi said, “The satisfaction on the faces of our elders is the biggest success of this scheme. Now, families won’t have to sell land or take loans for medical expenses, the government will take care of it."

He mentioned that around 50,000 cards have been distributed in Kashi so far, offering relief to thousands of families.

He also handed out GI (Geographical Indication) registration certificates to local artisans. He said that over 30 products from Varanasi and nearby areas, including tabla, shehnai, thandai, lal bharwa mirch, lal peda and tiranga barfi, have received GI tags.

Calling it 'a passport of our soil’s identity', he said these tags will help bring Kashi’s traditional skills to the global market. He called UP number one in the country for GI tagging and said it marks a proud moment for local artisans and producers.

In a major boost to the dairy sector, the PM transferred Rs 106 crore in bonus payments to livestock farmers associated with Banas Dairy.

Calling it a reward for their hard work, he said, “This is not a gift, but the result of your dedication.”

He highlighted how the dairy has helped improve the financial condition of thousands of families in Kashi, especially empowering women. “Many sisters in Purvanchal have now become Lakhpati Didis,” he said.

He said that India is now the world’s largest milk producer, with a 65 percent increase in production over the last 10 years. "The Banas Dairy unit in Kashi collects milk from one lakh farmers and is distributing Gir cows to further support livestock owners," he said.

Modi highlighted the major development projects that have transformed connectivity in the region. He said that over Rs 45,000 crore has been invested in the last 10 years for infrastructure upgrades, including the construction of the Phulwaria flyover, ring roads and wider highways connecting nearby districts like Ghazipur, Jaunpur and Mirzapur.

He said, "Earlier, even small festivals caused traffic jams. Now, with wider roads and better facilities, people are saving time."

The PM mentioned the upcoming city ropeway, which will place Varanasi among a few cities globally to have such a facility.

Remembering the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, he paid tribute to his work for women empowerment and social awareness. "Mahatma Phule and Savitribai Phule dedicated their lives to the self-respect of women and social welfare. We are committed to carrying forward their vision," he said.

Modi encouraged youth in Kashi to actively pursue sports. "India is preparing to host the Olympics in 2036. Youth from Kashi should start working hard now to bring Olympic medals and make the country proud,” he said, adding that new stadiums and sports complexes are being built in the region to support this goal.

He described Kashi as the soul of India and a beautiful reflection of the country’s diversity. He said every neighbourhood in Kashi represents a unique shade of India’s culture.

Highlighting events like the 'Kashi-Tamil Sangamam', he said such initiatives have helped strengthen national unity.

The PM also spoke about the proposed 'Ekta Mall', which will bring together products from across all Indian districts under one roof. Referring to UP’s growth, he said the state is no longer just a land of possibilities but a land of strength and achievements.

He emphasised the global rise of 'Made in India' products and highlighted how UP’s goods are now becoming global brands. He said that with the help of GI tags, many local items have gained international recognition.

Modi said, “UP now ranks number one in GI tagging.”

Mentioning items like Jaunpur’s Imarti, Mathura’s Sanjhi art, Pilibhit’s flutes and Tharu Zardozi from Lakhimpur Kheri, he said, “The fragrance of the soil of UP will now go beyond the borders.”

Calling Kashi a symbol of both heritage and development, the PM Modi said, “It is our duty to connect Kashi’s ancient soul with a modern identity. Kashi has been a spiritual and cultural center, but it is now also leading economic and social progress.”

He urged the people of Kashi to join in the journey of progress and expressed confidence that Kashi will continue to inspire the entire nation.

Congratulating the people of Kashi and Purvanchal for the ongoing development work, Modi said, “Whoever preserves Kashi, preserves the soul of India. We must continue to make Kashi strong and dreamlike.”

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