“Land of Bhagwan Birsa Munda will become the source of energy for the resolutions of Viksit Bharat”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, 01st March 2024
A land of hopes and aspirations and blessed with abundant natural resources, yet plagued by developmental challenges - Jharkhand has emerged as a focal point for the PM Modi-led government's initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive growth, infrastructure development, and socio-economic progress.
Jharkhand - when separated from the Bihar in the year 2000, did not have many prospects and avenues around. The state of Jharkhand lied in neglected state of affairs. However, it proved to be a turnaround for the state, when PM Modi came into governance. With his visionary approaches, progressive mindset and strategic policies, PM Modi led a multifaceted approach, accompanied by far-reaching policies to bring inclusive and sustainable development in the region.
The last decade has seen some of the biggest transformational changes when it comes to infrastructure – be it in the sector of health, education, sports, transportation or logistics; none of the sectors have been left behind. PM Modi led government saw the potential in the region which none of the previous governments ever did. With government’s unprecedented attention and support, today the region has been witnessing all-round developments.
One of the key areas where PM Modi's government has made significant strides in Jharkhand is infrastructure development. Roads, highways, railways and airways, health and educational infrastructure have been constructed and upgraded to connect remote areas, facilitating better access to markets, healthcare, and education. To boost the infrastructure of the state, Ranchi has been selected under the Smart Cities Mission.
Till date Over 2,256 km of National Highways have been constructed in Jharkhand which have not only reduced travel time but also spurred economic activity along the corridor. Another major initiative is developing Varanasi - Ranchi – Kolkata Greenfield Corridor under Bharatmala Pariyojana to benefit Jharkhand. PM Modi led government has also approved tentative total capital cost of Rs 30,575 crore for the development of 1,000 km of National Highway corridors.
Additionally, the government has given a record budgetary allocation of more than Rs. 7000 crore for railway projects in the year 2024-25, which is almost 15 times the average outlay of Rs 457 crore during 2009-14. Along with that, the average annual commissioning by railways in Jharkhand has more than doubled under PM Modi led government. The government is all set to develop 57 stations as Amrit Bharat stations in Jharkhand. Additionally, 3 Vande Bharat have been operationalized connecting Ranchi with Varanasi, Patna and Howrah. Further, 2 new airports in the city of Deogarh and Jamshedpur have been operationalized increasing the count to an overall 8 air routes under RCS UDAN. The government in order to facilitate the farmers and connecting them to rest of the nation’s agri-link has also brought Ranchi airport under Krishi Udan Scheme.
PM Modi led government striving towards promoting the tourism and generating allied employment in the state has undertaken significant infrastructure development projects to enhance connectivity and accessibility. Over Rs 39 crore have been sanctioned under PRASHAD scheme for development of Baba Baidyanath Dham, Deoghar. Along with that, under Swadesh Darshan Scheme, over Rs 30 crores have been sanctioned by the government for development of theme-based circuits in the state.
Along with formulating policies and landmark initiatives, PM Modi-led government has never shied away from honouring the unsung heroes and giving them their due share of respect and a dignified place among the nationals. In November 2023, PM Modi became the first Prime Minister to visit Ulihatu Village, the birthplace of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. And in order to pay homage and to give Bhagwan Birsa Munda the due share of respect, Bhagwan Birsa Munda Memorial Park cum Freedom Fighter Museum was inaugurated by PM Modi on November 15, 2021. The PM honoured Bhagwan Birsa’s sacrifice for the nation and tribal communities and dedicated the museum to the state as it is plays a significant role in promoting and preserving tribal history and culture. It also highlights the bravery and selflessness of tribals, which played an essential role in the development of the nation.
The government has been instrumental in empowering communities in Jharkhand. In addition to its already existing welfare measures and policies, ‘Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra’ and ‘PM Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups Development Mission’ were launched by PM Modi in November 2023 from Jharkhand. In recent developments, in March 2024, PM Modi laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects in the fertilizer, rail, power, and coal sectors worth Rs 35,700 crores in Sindri, Dhanbad, Jharkhand.
In Sindhri PM Modi, dedicated Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Ltd (HURL) Sindri Fertiliser Plant to the nation. The foundation of the fertilizer plant was also laid by PM Modi in 2018. Starting of the plant will lead to new avenues for employment of the local youth.
Today, the government initiatives and policies exemplifies how relentless and consistent the Modi government has been while trying to pursue growth and development for the benefit of the overall state. In conclusion, PM Modi led government by taking proactive decisions through strategic initiatives that focus on infrastructure development, connectivity enhancement, and socio-economic empowerment has fostered a conducive environment for increasing investment, building infrastructure and forging regional cooperation.
