PM attends closing ceremony of the Birth Centenary Celebration of the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche in Leh
PM unveils plaque to mark the commencement of work on the Zojila Tunnel
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, arrived in Leh on the first leg of a day-long visit to Jammu and Kashmir today.
He attended the Closing Ceremony of the Birth Centenary Celebration of the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche in Leh. At the same event, he unveiled a plaque to mark the commencement of work on the Zojila Tunnel.
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The 14 km long Zojila tunnel will be India’s longest road tunnel and Asia’s longest bi-directional tunnel. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister, had approved the construction, operation and maintenance of this tunnel between Baltal and Minamarg, on the Srinagar-Leh section of NH-1A, at a total cost of Rs 6800 crore earlier this year. The construction of this tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar, Kargil and Leh. It will cut down the time taken to cross the Zojila pass from the present three and a half hours, to just fifteen minutes. It will lead to all-round economic and socio-cultural integration of these regions. It also has immense strategic importance.
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Addressing a large gathering on the occasion, the Prime Minister recalled the rich contribution of the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche. His was a life dedicated to serving others, the Prime Minister said.
He added that the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche distinguished himself as an outstanding diplomat. He mentioned that during his visit to Mongolia, he had witnessed first-hand, the goodwill he has in that country.
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Shri Narendra Modi expressed happiness that he is visiting the three regions of Jammu and Kashmir today.
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He said the State of Jammu and Kashmir is going to get development projects worth Rs. 25,000 crore. These projects will have a positive impact on the people of the state, he added.
We remember the rich contribution of the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche. His was a life dedicated to serving others: PM @narendramodihttps://t.co/Excpd7HkDI
19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche distinguished himself as an outstanding diplomat. During my Mongolia visit I witnessed the goodwill he has in that country: PM @narendramodi
I am happy that today, I am visiting 3 regions of Jammu and Kashmir. After my visit to Leh, I will be going to Srinagar and there after to Jammu: PM @narendramodi
Jammu and Kashmir is going to get development projects worth Rs. 25,000 crore. These projects will have a positive impact on the people of the state: PM @narendramodi
There is great scope for agricultural growth across the state of Jammu and Kashmir. This state can play a key role when it comes to helping further holistic healthcare: PM @narendramodi
My thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives due to an accident near the Bhavnagar - Ahmedabad Highway in Gujarat. I pray that those who have been injured in the accident recover at the earliest: PM @narendramodi
From diplomatic phone calls to groundbreaking scientific discoveries, India’s presence on the global stage this week was marked by collaboration, innovation, and cultural pride.
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Modi and Musk Chart a Tech-Driven Future
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s conversation with Elon Musk underscored India’s growing stature in technology and innovation. Modi reaffirmed his commitment to advancing partnerships with Musk’s companies, Tesla and Starlink, while Musk expressed enthusiasm for deeper collaboration. With a planned visit to India later this year, Musk’s engagement signals a new chapter in India’s tech ambitions, blending global expertise with local vision.
Indian origin Scientist Finds Clues to Extraterrestrial Life
Dr. Nikku Madhusudhan, an IIT BHU alumnus, made waves in the scientific community by uncovering chemical compounds—known to be produced only by life—on a planet 124 light years away. His discovery is being hailed as the strongest evidence yet of life beyond our solar system, putting India at the forefront of cosmic exploration.
Ambedkar’s Legacy Honoured in New York
In a nod to India’s social reform icon, New York City declared April 14, 2025, as Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar Day. Announced by Mayor Eric Adams on Ambedkar’s 134th birth anniversary, the recognition reflects the global resonance of his fight for equality and justice.
Tourism as a Transformative Force
India’s travel and tourism sector, contributing 7% to the economy, is poised for 7% annual growth over the next decade, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. WTTC CEO Simpson lauded PM Modi’s investments in the sector, noting its potential to transform communities and uplift lives across the country.
US President Donald Trump called PM Modi a friend, while State Department spokesperson MacLeod predicted a “bright future” for US-India relations. From counter-terrorism to advanced technology and business, the two nations are deepening ties, with India’s strategic importance in sharp focus.
Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov praised India as a leader in space exploration, noting that Russia is learning from its advancements. He highlighted Russia’s pride in contributing to India’s upcoming manned mission, a testament to the deepening space collaboration between the two nations.
From forging tech partnerships to leaving an indelible mark on science, culture, and diplomacy, India this week showcased its ability to lead, inspire, and connect on a global scale.
PM attends closing ceremony of the Birth Centenary Celebration of the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche in Leh
