For the first time since the revocation of Article 370, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to hold a grand rally in Srinagar, Kashmir, today. The BJP claims this to be the largest rally in Kashmir's history, expecting more than 200,000 attendees. Amidst heightened security, the event at Bakshi Stadium is scheduled to start around 10 AM. Ahead of PM Modi's rally, Srinagar has been adorned with the national flag and BJP banners.
Addressing the public at Bakshi Stadium, Prime Minister Modi will unveil developmental projects worth ₹6400 crores. Security considerations have led to the sealing of even small roads in Srinagar. Barricading outside the stadium began 24 hours prior, and such a large public meeting has not been seen in Kashmir for some time now.
Temporary Drone Ban in Srinagar Due to PM's Visit
With PM Modi's visit in consideration, Srinagar city has instigated a temporary ban on drone and quadcopter flights. As per the directions issued by Srinagar police on Wednesday, unauthorized drone operations can face strict actions. In a social media post, Srinagar police declared, 'As per the Drone Rules, 2021, under provision 24(2), Srinagar city is hereby declared a 'Temporary Red Zone' for the operation of drones and quadcopters with immediate effect.'
Projects worth ₹1400 crores for Tourism Development
PM Modi will participate in the 'Developed India, Developed Jammu & Kashmir' program at Bakshi Stadium and inaugurate schemes worth approximately ₹5000 crores to boost the agricultural economy in the Union Territory. This includes over ₹1400 crores in tourism-related national projects under the 'Swadesh Darshan' and 'PRASAD' (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) schemes, featuring a project for integrated development.
Appointment Letters for Government Employees
In addition to announcing selected tourist destinations under the Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD) scheme, PM Modi will also launch the 'Dekho Apna Desh People's Choice Tourist Destination Poll' and 'Chalo India Global Diaspora' campaign. Furthermore, nearly 1,000 newly recruited government employees in Jammu & Kashmir will be handed their appointment letters, and PM Modi will also interact with beneficiaries of various central schemes, including women, farmers, and entrepreneurs.
Several Srinagar Schools Closed, Board Exams Postponed
It should be noted that on August 5, 2019, the BJP-led central government abrogated the provisions of Article 370 and divided the former state into the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Consequently, with PM Modi's visit in mind, several schools along his route in Srinagar have been shut down for Wednesday and Thursday, and the board exams scheduled for today have been postponed until next month.
