On March 7, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, signifying a pivotal moment in the Union Territory’s developmental journey, a press release issued by the Prime Minister’s office said.
At precisely 12 noon, the Prime Minister is expected to arrive at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, marking his attendance at the ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu Kashmir’ event, a testament to the government’s commitment towards fostering a developed and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir within the ambit of a progressive India.
The ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu Kashmir programme is not just an event but a comprehensive showcase of developmental strides and visionary projects aimed at transforming the region’s socio-economic landscape.
Announcements and Inaugurations
The Prime Minister’s visit is laden with significant announcements and the inauguration of a slew of initiatives designed to bolster the agri-economy, tourism, and employment sectors of Jammu and Kashmir.
Launching the Rs 5000 Crore Holistic Agriculture Development Programme
Central to the day’s agenda is the ‘Holistic Agriculture Development Programme’ dedication to the nation, an initiative valued at approximately Rs 5000 crore. This programme is strategically designed to revitalize the agri-economy in Jammu and Kashmir by integrating advancements in horticulture, agriculture, and livestock husbandry.
Aiming to benefit about 2.5 lakh farmers, the programme encompasses skill development through the Daksh Kisan portal, establishing around 2000 Kisan Khidmat Ghars, and creating robust value chains to support the farming community.
This comprehensive approach is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities, uplifting lakhs of marginal families in the region.
Boosting Tourism and Heritage
In addition to agricultural development, the Prime Minister will inaugurate multiple projects under the Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) schemes, with a combined worth of over Rs 1400 crore. These projects include the ‘Integrated Development of Hazratbal Shrine’ in Srinagar, aiming to enhance the spiritual and cultural infrastructure of this revered site.
The initiative features comprehensive site development, including the construction of boundary walls, illumination, improvement of Ghats and Devri Paths, and the establishment of a Sufi interpretation centre, among other significant enhancements.
Launch of ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ Poll and ‘Chalo India Global Diaspora Campaign’
Moreover, the Prime Minister’s agenda includes the launch of the ‘Dekho Apna Desh People’s Choice Tourist Destination Poll’ and the ‘Chalo India Global Diaspora Campaign’. These initiatives are designed to engage the Indian diaspora as ambassadors of Indian tourism and to gauge the nation’s preferences in tourism, covering diverse categories such as Spiritual, Cultural & Heritage, Nature & Wildlife, and Adventure.
Aim to inspire the Indian diaspora to become Incredible India ambassadors and promote tourism to India. The campaign is being launched based on the clarion call of the Prime Minister, wherein he requested Indian diaspora members to encourage at least 5 non-Indian friends to travel to India. With more than 3 crore overseas Indians, the Indian diaspora can serve as a powerful catalyst for Indian tourism, acting as cultural Ambassadors.
The poll is hosted on the MyGov platform, emphasising citizen engagement in promoting India’s rich tourism potential.
The programme will also spotlight the announcement of 42 tourist destinations selected under the Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD) Scheme. This innovative scheme aims to enhance tourist experiences through the sustainable development of destinations, categorized into Culture & Heritage, Spiritual, Ecotourism Amrit Dharohar, and Vibrant Village.
A highlight of the visit includes the Prime Minister’s interaction with beneficiaries of various government schemes, including women achievers, lakhpati didis, farmers, and entrepreneurs. Additionally, the Prime Minister will distribute appointment orders to approximately 1000 new government recruits, underscoring the government’s commitment to job creation and public welfare in Jammu and Kashmir.
Announcement of 43 Tourist Destinations for Holistic Growth
Prime Minister will also launch about 43 projects that will develop a wide range of pilgrimage and tourist sites across the country. The Prime Minister’s vision of enhancing the tourist and pilgrimage experience through world-class infrastructure and amenities aimed at developing pilgrimage and tourist sites across the country.
These projects encompass the development of revered sites such as the Annavaram Temple in Andhra Pradesh, Navagraha Temples in Tamil Nadu, Sri Chamundeshwari Devi Temple in Karnataka, among others, alongside the creation of unique experiences such as the Mechuka Adventure Park in Arunachal Pradesh and the Ecotourism zone at Ananthagiri forest in Telangana.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Srinagar on March 7, 2024, embodies a multifaceted approach towards the comprehensive development of Jammu and Kashmir. Through the inauguration of significant initiatives in agriculture, tourism, and employment, coupled with interactive sessions with the local populace and the distribution of government appointments, the visit is set to mark a new chapter in the region’s journey towards prosperity and integration within the vibrant tapestry of a developed India.
