Addressing a public gathering in Madhubani for National Panchayati Raj Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored the victims of the Pahalgam attack with a moment of silence. He declared that the masterminds behind this terrorist act will face punishments beyond their imagination.
Before commencing his speech, PM Modi requested, 'Before I begin, I ask you all to join me in observing a moment of silence for the family members we lost on April 22.'
Speaking at the National Panchayati Raj Day event, PM Modi stated, 'On this day, the entire country stands with Mithila, with Bihar. Today, foundational and inauguration ceremonies for projects worth thousands of crores linked to the development of Bihar and the nation have taken place. The initiatives in electricity, rail, and infrastructure will create new employment opportunities in Bihar.'
While addressing the public, PM Modi remarked, 'Bihar is the birthplace of the Satyagraha movement led by revered Bapu. Bapu had a firm belief that India’s rapid progress depends on the strength of its villages, which is the driving force behind our vision for Panchayati Raj. Over the past decade, various initiatives have been undertaken to empower panchayats, including utilizing technology for their betterment.'
PM Modi highlighted that over the decades, more than 200,000 village panchayats have been connected to the internet. Over 5.50 lakh Common Service Centers have been established in villages. The digitization of panchayats has brought several advantages, making it easier to obtain documents like life/death and land holding certificates.
30,000 New Panchayat Buildings Established: Modi
PM Modi emphasized, 'After decades since independence, while the nation has received a new parliamentary building, 30,000 new panchayat buildings have also been constructed across the country. Ensuring adequate funding for panchayats has been a priority for the government. In the past 10 years, panchayats have received more than 2 lakh crore rupees in funding, all invested in village development. We've witnessed how panchayats have empowered social participation. Bihar was the first state to provide 50% reservation for women in panchayats. Today, numerous women from marginalized communities serve as public representatives in Bihar, demonstrating true social justice and participation.'
Boosting the Rural Economy
Continuing, he said, 'The 'Jeevika Didi' program in Bihar has transformed the lives of many women. Today, approximately 1,000 crore rupees have been allocated to women's self-help groups in Bihar, further empowering them economically. In the past decade, the rural economy has gained momentum, with the construction of homes for the poor, roads, and sturdy pathways. Villages have been equipped with gas connections, water facilities, and sanitation facilities.'
'Unimaginable Punishment Awaits Terrorists'
Addressing the Pahalgam attack, PM Modi declared, 'The ruthless killing of innocent citizens by terrorists in Pahalgam has saddened the entire nation, and our country stands in solidarity with the suffering families. The perpetrators of this heinous act will face punishments beyond imagination.'
