MODI BACKS UP MODEL ON COVID, GOVERNANCE
VARANASI : Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Uttar Pradesh government on Thursday for its handling of Covid-19, boosting investment, and improving law and order. Modi visited his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi, inaugurated a convention centre built with Japanese assistance, laid the foundation of development projects worth ₹1,583 crore and hailed Indo-japan ties.
VARANASI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Uttar Pradesh government on Thursday for its handling of Covid-19, boosting investment, and improving law and order, saying that the manner in which the state controlled the second wave of the pandemic was “unprecedented”.
Modi visited his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi, inaugurated a convention centre built with Japanese assistance, laid the foundation of development projects worth ₹1,583 crore and hailed Indo-japan ties. The PM said Uttar Pradesh’s population -- roughly 200 million -- was more than a dozen big countries but the way it controlled the second wave and stopped its spread was: “unprecedented”.
“And this (Covid) is the biggest problem the world is facing in 100 years. It is the biggest pandemic, and hence efforts made by Uttar Pradesh to tackle the corona are commendable,” said Modi. “But Kashi along with UP faced such a big problem with full strength. Even during difficult times, Kashi has shown it does not stop, nor does it get tired,” he added, appealing to the audience to not be careless and follow Covid-19 protocols.
The PM also appreciated the Yogi Adityanath-led government for a “development-oriented approach” and bringing in the rule of law in the state. He said Uttar Pradesh emerged as the leading investment destination of the country due to the environment created by the government.
“UP, which was considered difficult to do business in a few years ago, is becoming a favourite place for Make in India today... today, Yogiji is himself working hard and personally reviewing all development schemes,” the PM said at a public gathering at IIT-BHU grounds in Varanasi.
The PM’S endorsement is a boost for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state government that was battling criticism from opposition parties and its own lawmakers over its handling of the second wave.