The World Will Now Recognize Bundelkhand’s Strength: CM Yogi
Jhansi (Utar Pradesh): On his one-day visit to Jhansi on Tuesday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated a joint credit camp under the Mukhyamantri Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan (CM Yuva) for the Jhansi and Chitrakoot divisions. During this event, he distributed loans to 1,070 beneficiaries of the Yuva Udyami Vikas Yojana and also inspected an exhibition related to the scheme.
While addressing the public, CM Yogi highlighted the progress of Bundelkhand and the efforts being made by the government to transform the state. He also congratulated the people of Uttar Pradesh on the success of Mahakumbh and encouraged the youth to become self-reliant. He stated that the new Uttar Pradesh of new India is advancing with full strength, and soon, the world will recognize Bundelkhand’s potential.
Young Entrepreneurs Must Embrace Innovation and Technology
Speaking on the CM Yuva Udyami Abhiyan, the Chief Minister emphasized that the initiative aims to make youth self-reliant by fostering entrepreneurship. He revealed that 1,070 young individuals in Bundelkhand have received interest-free and guarantee-free loans of ₹5 lakh each, with a 10% margin money grant. This scheme is designed for any youth who lacks capital to start a business.
CM Yogi assured that young entrepreneurs who work with honesty and patience will be able to secure ₹10 lakh in loans in the future and, within a few years, can progress from being lakhpatis (millionaires) to crorepatis (multi-millionaires). He advised them to incorporate innovation and technology into their businesses. Giving the example of Mahakumbh, he mentioned how some youth provided bike taxi services to earn additional income.
The Chief Minister set a target of providing loans to 1 lakh youth between January 24 and March 31, with 2.7 lakh applications received and 30,000 loans already approved. On March 25, marking the 8th anniversary of the government, the goal is to connect 1,000 youth per district with the scheme.
96 Lakh MSMEs in Uttar Pradesh Providing Employment to Millions
Discussing the MSME policy, CM Yogi stated that Uttar Pradesh has 96 lakh MSME units that generate employment for millions. He criticized previous governments for pushing the state into backwardness and mafia rule but asserted that today, Uttar Pradesh has become the growth engine of the nation.
Following the elimination of dacoits and mafias in Bundelkhand, significant developments such as the Bundelkhand Expressway, Defense Corridor, and BIDA (Bundelkhand Industrial Development Authority) have been launched. The upcoming 56,000-acre industrial city between Jhansi and Kanpur is expected to spark an economic revolution.
Pharma Park in Lalitpur Progressing Rapidly
CM Yogi also highlighted projects such as the Pharma Park, Medical College, Convention Center, and Har Ghar Nal Yojana (Tap Water for Every Home). He announced that the Bundelkhand Expressway will be extended and that the 1,500-acre Pharma Park in Lalitpur is advancing rapidly. The Lalitpur Medical College is already complete. Additionally, Jhansi will soon have a modern convention center with a capacity for 2,000 to 4,000 people, which will host exhibitions, weddings, and investor summits.
Bundelkhand No Longer Faces Water Shortages
CM Yogi recalled that eight years ago, Bundelkhand struggled for every drop of water. However, under the Har Ghar Nal Yojana, drinking water will soon be available in every household. The Ken-Betwa Project is progressing swiftly to ensure irrigation for every farm.
He praised Bundelkhand for freeing itself from mafia and rioters, urging people to prevent such elements from resurfacing so that future generations do not face hardships. CM Yogi assured that the government is committed to protecting the poor, traders, and women.
For farmers, he announced a ₹150 per quintal increase in the wheat Minimum Support Price (MSP), raising it from ₹2,400 to ₹2,550 per quintal. Additionally, every mandi (marketplace) will have a Shabari Canteen offering affordable meals to farmers, and seven working women’s hostels will be constructed in honor of Mata Ahilyabai. To achieve the zero poverty goal, marginalized families will receive housing, toilets, job cards, Ayushman health cards, and ration cards. CM Yogi described these initiatives as a true tribute to Rani Lakshmibai, who sacrificed her life for Jhansi’s pride.
Sanatan Dharma’s Flag is Flying High on the Global Stage
CM Yogi said that after the divine Mahakumbh, he had the opportunity to visit Bundelkhand, and he proudly declared that Sanatan Dharma’s flag is now flying high globally.
He recalled a time when life in Uttar Pradesh used to halt after sunset, women feared going to school, traders were forced to migrate, farmers faced distress, and youth left in search of jobs. But today, under PM Narendra Modi’s leadership, New India and New Uttar Pradesh are moving forward with full strength.
CM Yogi also mentioned that during the Mahakumbh, over 66 crore devotees and saints participated in a state with a population of 25 crore, far exceeding expectations. He praised Jhansi’s residents and every district for their hospitality, which set a new tradition of welcoming guests.
He also lauded the security arrangements at the Mahakumbh, highlighting that there were no incidents of robbery, harassment, kidnapping, or murder. This not only enhanced Uttar Pradesh’s reputation but also strengthened India’s global image. CM Yogi concluded by stating that this achievement is not just the government’s success but the pride of every citizen.