Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 100th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee by inaugurating and laying the foundation stone for multiple developmental projects in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.

Addressing a large gathering, PM Modi celebrated the day as a tribute to Vajpayee’s legacy, terming it a “festival of good governance and service.” He also released a commemorative stamp and coin in Vajpayee’s honour, highlighting his indelible contribution to the nation.

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The event featured the launch of several landmark initiatives, including the foundation stone for the Ken-Betwa River-Linking Project and the Daudhan Dam, which aim to address water scarcity in Bundelkhand. PM Modi underscored the significance of these projects, stating they would irrigate over 11 lakh hectares of land across Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

Additionally, the Prime Minister unveiled the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project, Madhya Pradesh’s first solar power plant, as part of the government’s push for renewable energy. He noted that Madhya Pradesh had become the first state to initiate two major river-linking projects under the national campaign.

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PM Modi stressed the importance of water security, pointing out that the Ministry of Jal Shakti had made significant strides in providing tap water to rural households, with over 12 crore connections delivered in the last five years.

Highlighting the state’s tourism potential, the Prime Minister announced initiatives to develop Madhya Pradesh as a global tourism hub. He mentioned projects like the Heritage Circuit, connecting Khajuraho, Gwalior, and Orchha, and eco-tourism developments at Gandhi Sagar and Omkareshwar Dam.

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He also praised Madhya Pradesh’s progress in tourism, referencing a global report that ranked the state among the world’s top ten tourist destinations. The Prime Minister noted the construction of an international convention centre in Khajuraho to bolster tourism further.

Reaffirming his government’s commitment to good governance, PM Modi stated, “Good Governance is the identity of our governments.” and emphasised that developmental schemes must benefit every citizen. He expressed his gratitude to the people for entrusting him with a third consecutive term at the Centre.

Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, Governor Mangubhai C. Patel, and several Union Ministers, including Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Virendra Kumar, attended the event. The projects launched today are expected to play a crucial role in transforming Madhya Pradesh and accelerating India’s economic growth.