Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Uttarakhand the “heartbeat of India’s spiritual life” during the state’s 25th Foundation Day celebrations in Dehradun. He said the region, home to Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, represents India’s deep spiritual roots. Modi added that Uttarakhand could become the “spiritual capital of the world” by connecting its temples, ashrams, and yoga centres globally.
Highlighting tourism growth, he urged that every “Vibrant Village” should evolve into a small tourism hub. Modi encouraged promoting homestays, traditional cuisine, and local culture. He said festivals like Harela, Phooldei, and Nanda Devi Mela showcase the true soul of Uttarakhand and should be promoted worldwide through initiatives like “One District, One Festival.”
Modi also spoke about developing horticulture and MSMEs in the state. He said mountain districts have vast potential for growing kiwis, herbs, and medicinal plants, which can boost food processing and organic industries.
He noted Uttarakhand’s growing role as a film and wedding destination. The Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over ₹8,140 crore, spanning water, irrigation, energy, and education sectors.
