Modi in Jammu: Indian PM launches projects worth billions of dollars, says Article 370 was a hurdle
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated development projects worth Rs320 billion (approx $3.85billion) in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday (Feb 20).
PM Modi also flagged off the first electric train in the Valley and inaugurated a train service between Sangaldan and Baramulla stations.
During his address, he said that since the 'roadblock' of Article 370 was removed now, the union territory was experiencing progress. The Modi government had scrapped Article 370 that had given special status to the region.
During his day-long visit, PM Modilaid the foundation stone for theprojects, met the beneficiaries of various government schemes and distributed appointment letters to 1,500 fresh government recruits.
The projects launched by Modi pertain to sectors like health, education, rail, road, civic infrastructure, aviation and more.
"Article 370 was the biggest roadblock in the development of Jammu and Kashmir. However, the BJP government has abrogated it," said PM Modi.
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"Jammu and Kashmir is moving towards overall development now. It is because of the abrogation of Article 370, I have urged the people to help BJP win 370 seats and NDA win 400 seats in (2024 Lok Sabha) elections."
"I have full faith in you and we will make 'Viksit Jammu and Kashmir.' Your dreams of 70 years will be fulfilled by Modi in the coming years. Earlier, only disappointing news of bombs, kidnappings and separation used to come from Jammu and Kashmir, but now Jammu and Kashmir is developing and moving forward," he added during his speech.
"Jammu and Kashmir had to bear the brunt of dynastic politics for decades. They are only concerned about their families, not about your interests, your families...I am happy that Jammu and Kashmir is getting freedom from this dynastic politics," said PM Modi.
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He promised the people that the BJP would fulfil the dream of 'Viksit Jammu and Kashmir' (developed Jammu and Kashmir).
This is the PM's second visit to Jammu during his second term as prime minister. Before this, he had visited in April 2022. This visit comes just months ahead of the April-May Lok Sabha elections.
PM Modi is seeking a third straight term as Prime Minister of India.
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On the eve of his visit to Jammu, the PM had said that the projects he will dedicate to the nation will be a big boost to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and to India as a whole.
“I look forward to being in Jammu tomorrow to inaugurate key development works which will boost ‘Ease of Living.’ It will also be a landmark day for the education sector as various institutions including IITs and IIMs will get permanent campuses,” he posted on X, on Monday.
(With inputs from agencies)