Ken-Betwa Project to Bring Prosperity to Bundelkhand: PM Modi

GG News Bureau
Khajuraho, 25th Dec. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated and laid the foundation for several transformative projects in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh on the 100th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The landmark initiatives include the Ken-Betwa River Linking National Project, the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project, and the construction of 1,153 Atal Gram Sushasan buildings.

Addressing a large gathering, PM Modi called the day “remarkably inspirational” as it coincided with the birth centenary of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He emphasized the government’s commitment to good governance and development, marking the event as a festival of service and progress.

Ken-Betwa River Linking Project: A Game-Changer for Bundelkhand
PM Modi laid the foundation stone for India’s first interlinking of rivers under the National Perspective Plan. The Ken-Betwa River Linking Project is set to benefit 10 districts in Madhya Pradesh and several in Uttar Pradesh, addressing the chronic water scarcity in Bundelkhand. The project will irrigate 11 lakh hectares of farmland, supply drinking water to millions, and generate over 100 MW of green energy.

“The Ken-Betwa project will bring prosperity and happiness to Bundelkhand, an area that has suffered decades of water scarcity,” said PM Modi.

Focus on Renewable Energy and Infrastructure
PM Modi inaugurated the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project, Madhya Pradesh’s first solar plant. Located in Khandwa, the project aligns with the government’s mission of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and will significantly reduce water evaporation while conserving energy.

Additionally, the PM laid the foundation stone for 1,153 Atal Gram Sushasan buildings, which aim to enhance governance at the grassroots level by empowering Gram Panchayats.

Tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee
The Prime Minister released a commemorative stamp and coin to honor the former Prime Minister. He credited Vajpayee with mentoring a generation of leaders and praised his vision for water management and governance reforms.

“Atal Ji’s contributions to nation-building are indelible, and his vision continues to guide us,” said PM Modi.

Commitment to Water Security
Highlighting the importance of water conservation, PM Modi said the past decade would be remembered as an era of unprecedented progress in water security. He underscored the success of the Jal Jeevan Mission, which has provided tap water connections to over 12 crore households in the past five years, and initiatives like the Atal Bhujal Yojana aimed at improving groundwater levels.

Tourism and Economic Growth
PM Modi also emphasized the potential of Madhya Pradesh as a global tourist destination, noting its inclusion in an international list of top travel spots. Projects under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, including heritage circuits and eco-tourism hubs, aim to attract more visitors while boosting local economies.

“Tourism not only strengthens our economy but also provides immense employment opportunities for our youth,” PM Modi stated.

Future Vision for Madhya Pradesh
Concluding his address, PM Modi expressed confidence that Madhya Pradesh, with initiatives like these, is on course to becoming one of India’s top-performing states.

The event was attended by dignitaries, including Governor Mangubhai Patel, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, and Union Ministers, among others.

These initiatives symbolize the government’s unwavering commitment to good governance, sustainable development, and water security, ensuring a brighter future for Madhya Pradesh and India as a whole.