Dehradun witnessed a grand celebration on Sunday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 25th anniversary of Uttarakhand’s formation with a major development push. Addressing a packed crowd at the iconic Forest Research Institute (FRI), the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid foundation stones for multiple projects across the state together valued at more than ₹8,140 crore.
The projects aim to boost several crucial sectors. These include drinking water, irrigation, energy, urban development, education, sports, and skill training. Out of the total investment, around ₹930 crore has gone into completed projects while foundation stones for new works worth over ₹7,200 crore were laid.
Major announcements and initiatives
During the event, PM Modi transferred ₹62 crore directly into the bank accounts of more than 28,000 farmers under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana.
He also inaugurated the Dehradun Water Supply Project covering 23 zones under the AMRUT scheme, a new electrical substation in Pithoragarh, solar power plants across government buildings, and a modern AstroTurf Hockey Ground at Haldwani Stadium in Nainital.
डबल इंजन सरकार उत्तराखंड को विकास की नई ऊंचाइयों पर ले जाने के लिए निरंतर प्रयासरत है। देहरादून में राज्य स्थापना के रजत जयंती समारोह का हिस्सा बनना मेरे लिए गर्व का विषय है। https://t.co/vG4Ts6A79p
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 9, 2025
In addition, two large hydro-sector projects took center stage. The Song Dam Drinking Water Project will provide 150 million litres of water daily to Dehradun city, while the Jamarani Dam Multipurpose Project in Nainital will supply water, enhance irrigation, and generate power.
Other initiatives include new electrical substations, a Women’s Sports College in Champawat, and a state-of-the-art dairy plant in Nainital.
“From mountains to the world’s spiritual capital”
Reflecting on Uttarakhand’s journey since it became a separate state in 2000, PM Modi praised its rapid progress in education, infrastructure, and tourism. He pointed out that while only about 4,000 tourists visited by air every six months during the early years, the state now welcomes the same number every single day.
“In the last 25 years, Uttarakhand has written a story of determination and growth. The number of engineering colleges has increased tenfold. From having just one medical college, the state now boasts ten,” he said.
He urged the people of Uttarakhand to dream big and position the state as the “Spiritual Capital of the world.” Modi highlighted that the temples, yoga centres, and ashrams nestled in the Himalayas already attract visitors from across the globe seeking peace and wellness. “If Uttarakhand decides, it can become the centre of spiritual tourism and global wellness in just a few years,” he added.
The Silver Jubilee event drew thousands of residents and visitors from across the state. The FRI campus in Dehradun turned into a festive hub with cultural performances, traditional music, and showcases of Uttarakhand’s achievements in 25 years of statehood.