Purvanchal was ignored, now it is India's new growth hub, claims Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday, claimed that in the past 10 years, development in Varanasi gained speed and that Kashi has come to the centre of Purvanchal's economic map.

Addressing a gathering after laying the foundation stone of 44 projects worth Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi, his Parliamentary constituency, the PM said the projects inaugurated today will enhance connectivity, provide clean drinking water to every household, and expand sports facilities.

"Our guiding mantra in serving the nation has always been 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. With this spirit, we continue to move forward for the betterment of every citizen," Modi said.

Highlighting the development witnessed in Varanasi, Modi said earlier Purvanchal lacked health facilities but today Kashi is becoming the health capital.

"Today India is moving ahead with both development and heritage together and our Kashi is becoming the best model for this," he said, adding, "The soul of India resides in its diversity and Kashi is its most beautiful picture".

According to him, when all development works are completed, commuting to and from Varanasi will become easier and there will be progress in work and in businesses.

We are in constant pursuit of providing growth opportunities to the youth of Kashi in the field of sports, the prime minister said and added that the government is trying its best to be able to host the 2036 Olympics. But to shine in the Olympics, the youth of Kashi will have to begin training today, he observed.

He also took a dig at the opposition saying those hankering for power focus solely on promoting their own families, while his government works on the theme of inclusive development.

"Those who play games day and night only to grab power, their principle is 'parivar ka saath parivar ka vikas' (family support, family development)," the PM said.