Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
Jaipur, Feb 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday emphasised that his government operates with sensitivity rather than sheer power, highlighting the progress Rajasthan is witnessing under the “double-engine” model. He underlined that the state is becoming a land of opportunities by combining heritage with modern development.
Addressing a large gathering at Kayad Vishram Sthali in Ajmer, and in the presence of governor Haribhau Bagde and chief minister Bhajanlal Sharma, PM Modi said the government is working toward the vision of “Developed India through Developed Rajasthan.”
He highlighted that projects worth around Rs 17,000 crore, inaugurated and laid during the event, will boost sectors such as roads, electricity, water supply, health, and education, while creating employment opportunities for youth.
Pointing to past issues, the Prime Minister noted that Rajasthan often made headlines for corruption and paper leaks in recruitment exams. “Today, paper leaks have been curbed, and strict action is being taken against the guilty. Under the double-engine government, youth power is becoming more empowered,” he said, congratulating 21,863 young people who received appointment letters.
PM Modi also described the launch of the HPV vaccination campaign as a significant step toward women’s empowerment. He stressed that a healthy mother strengthens the entire family and cited several schemes for women, including the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, providing Rs 5,000 for pregnant women’s nutrition, and the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, which reduces dependence on smoke-filled kitchens.
On infrastructure, he said better road, rail, and air connectivity is vital for Rajasthan’s growth. Improved connectivity facilitates tourism, supports local businesses, and attracts investment.
The Prime Minister highlighted irrigation and water projects, including the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP), which had remained pending under previous governments. He also mentioned the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link and the Yamuna-Rajasthan Link under the river-linking initiative as transformative for the state’s agriculture.
Rajasthan’s solar potential was also emphasised. Under the PM’s Free Electricity Scheme, over 1.25 lakh families have installed rooftop solar panels, with Rs 78,000 transferred directly to beneficiaries’ accounts, bringing electricity bills close to zero for many households.
PM Modi began the event by paying homage to local deities and historical figures, describing Ajmer as a land of faith and valor. He recalled Rajasthan’s heroes, including Major Dalpat Singh, and their role in liberating Haifa.
Chief minister Sharma praised the Prime Minister for resolving longstanding water disputes. He said the Hathini Kund Barrage project will provide a permanent solution to water scarcity in Shekhawati, while the Ramjal Setu Link projects will ensure water supply to 17 districts.
Sharma also highlighted the state’s achievements under the Jal Jeevan Mission, with over 14 lakh water connections provided in the past two years, alongside more than 4 lakh groundwater recharge structures built under the “Karmabhoomi Se Matrubhoomi” campaign. He added that Rajasthan ranks first in 11 national schemes, second in five, and third in seven, with overall crime down 14% and crimes against women down 10%.