Modi Flags Off Development Push in Kashi, Calls Out Opposition’s ‘Power for Family’ Agenda

VARANASI:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday launched a scathing attack on the Opposition over dynastic politics, accusing rival parties of prioritising their families over national interest, while asserting that the BJP remains committed to inclusive development and service-driven governance.

Addressing a massive public gathering during his 50th visit to his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 44 development projects worth Rs 3,880 cr, aimed at boosting both rural and urban infrastructure in the region.

Taking a sharp dig at political opponents, the Prime Minister said, “We are taking forward the idea of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’. However, there are some whose only focus is to conspire to grab power. Their only resolve is ‘Parivar ka Saath, Parivar ka Vikas’.”

He added that while some parties remain fixated on securing power for a select few, the BJP’s agenda has consistently centred around serving the people and creating opportunities for all sections of society.

Highlighting the achievements of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, PM Modi particularly emphasised the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana, which provides free healthcare to the elderly. “Just a short while ago, I had the opportunity to hand over Ayushman Vaya Vandana Cards to several elderly citizens here. The expression of satisfaction on their faces was, for me, the greatest success of this scheme,” he said, visibly moved by the response from senior citizens.

Reflecting on the transformation of healthcare in eastern Uttar Pradesh over the past decade, the Prime Minister recalled the dire state of medical services in Purvanchal before 2014. “Today, my Kashi is becoming a health capital,” he remarked, adding that major hospitals that once seemed accessible only in Delhi or Mumbai are now within reach for the local population.

“This is true development when facilities come to the people,” PM Modi said, noting that the government has not only increased the number of hospitals but also ensured that the poor are treated with dignity and respect.

He described the Ayushman Bharat initiative as a ‘boon’ for underprivileged families, stressing that it provides not only medical aid but also builds a sense of trust in government support. “It was my guarantee that the elderly would receive free treatment. The Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana is a result of that promise,” he said.

Concluding his address, the Prime Minister underlined the significance of the 44 new development projects, saying they would bring major improvements in the lives of people across Varanasi and surrounding areas by modernising civic services, enhancing connectivity, and strengthening healthcare and education infrastructure.

The event drew a large turnout, reaffirming the Prime Minister’s stronghold in Varanasi as he gears up for the upcoming general elections.