PM Modi to Unveil ₹2,200 Crore Development Projects in Varanasi on August 2

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit his parliamentary constituency, Varanasi, on August 2, 2025, to inaugurate and lay the foundation for an ambitious series of development projects valued at approximately ₹2,200 crore. His visit marks yet another milestone in the government’s continued efforts to transform Varanasi into a model city of heritage preservation, modern infrastructure, and inclusive development.

The visit will also include the launch of the 20th installment of the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme, under which more than ₹20,000 crore will be transferred directly to the bank accounts of over 9.7 crore farmers across India. This disbursement reflects the government's commitment to rural welfare and financial inclusion.

PM Narendra Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of several infrastructure projects. | NDTV

A Multi-Sectoral Development Push

The ₹2,200 crore initiative encompasses a broad range of sectors, including roads, electricity, education, health care, tourism, water supply, and urban development. During the visit, the Prime Minister will inaugurate 14 completed projects worth around ₹565 crore and lay the foundation for 38 new projects estimated at ₹1,650 crore. These initiatives are expected to further elevate the living standards of citizens and enhance the civic infrastructure of Varanasi.

Several high-profile projects will be launched, such as the widening and improvement of the Varanasi–Bhadohi and Chhitauni–Shool Tankeshwar roads, and the completion of the Hardattpur Railway Overbridge. These infrastructure upgrades aim to decongest key traffic routes and improve connectivity across the city and surrounding regions.

Power, Water, and Smart City Enhancements

One of the most significant segments of the developmental package is the investment in power infrastructure. Underground cabling and Smart Distribution System upgrades—estimated at over ₹880 crore—will modernize Varanasi’s electricity supply and enhance safety, reliability, and efficiency. These changes are aligned with the Smart City vision that aims to integrate technology into urban planning and public services.

Simultaneously, clean drinking water access is being expanded with the inauguration of 47 rural water supply schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission. These schemes will provide piped water to thousands of households, reinforcing the government’s pledge to ensure water accessibility in both urban and rural areas.

Reviving Culture and Boosting Tourism

In recognition of Varanasi’s ancient heritage, the government has prioritized projects that preserve and enhance the city’s cultural and spiritual identity. The redevelopment of eight riverfront ghats, renovation of Kalika Dham, and restoration of structures such as the Kardameshwar Mahadev Temple and Munshi Premchand’s ancestral home are part of a strategic vision to elevate the city’s tourism offerings.

Furthermore, green urban projects—including the establishment of a Miyawaki forest in Kanchanpur and the beautification of more than 20 parks and ponds—reflect a shift toward sustainable urban ecology. Floating platforms and illumination at key ghats will enhance the visual and ritualistic experience for pilgrims and visitors alike.

Education and Healthcare Infrastructure

Educational advancement is also a cornerstone of the development push. The renovation of 53 municipal schools, modernization of several government high schools, and the creation of a new district library underscore the government’s commitment to improving academic infrastructure.

In the healthcare sector, new diagnostic and surgical capabilities, such as robotic surgery and CT scan facilities at the Madan Mohan Malaviya Cancer Centre, are being introduced. The launch of a new homoeopathic college and hospital, alongside facilities for animal birth control, reflect a comprehensive vision for public health—human and animal alike.

Support for Farmers: PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi

The visit will also be marked by the ceremonial release of the 20th installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme. Over ₹20,500 crore will be deposited into the bank accounts of nearly 10 crore farmers across India, with Uttar Pradesh alone accounting for 2.3 crore of the beneficiaries. This milestone will take the total disbursal under the scheme to over ₹3.90 lakh crore since its launch in 2018.

The PM-Kisan scheme has become a central pillar of rural financial assistance, aimed at empowering small and marginal farmers with assured income support. The direct benefit transfer ensures transparency and minimizes leakage in the delivery of aid.

Preparations for a Grand Welcome

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and senior officials have reviewed all arrangements to ensure the Prime Minister’s visit proceeds without any hurdles. From venue readiness and sanitation to contingency plans for rain and heat, a thorough checklist has been implemented. Cleanliness drives have been carried out near the Varuna River and ghats, while traffic diversions and parking arrangements have been finalized.

Security has also been tightened with helicopter rehearsals, drone surveillance, and on-ground drills. More than 50,000 people are expected to attend the event, with BJP workers engaging in grassroots outreach to mobilize crowds from all assembly segments of the district.

Vision for a Transformed Varanasi

PM Modi’s frequent visits to Varanasi and the pace of developmental activity reflect his vision of making the ancient city a global cultural and spiritual hub with world-class infrastructure. Projects like the upcoming Kashi ropeway, India’s first urban cable car system, and the construction of a 30,000-seat international cricket stadium are expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

These transformative projects not only enhance connectivity and civic amenities but also aim to boost economic activity through tourism, sports, and infrastructure development. Varanasi is steadily emerging as a symbol of how tradition and modernity can coexist in harmony.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Modi’s August 2 visit to Varanasi is more than just a ceremonial occasion—it is a declaration of intent, reaffirming his government’s long-term commitment to grassroots development, farmer empowerment, urban modernization, and cultural preservation. As Varanasi continues to evolve, it is fast becoming a prototype of integrated and inclusive growth that other cities may look to emulate.

(Sources: NDTV, Indian Express, Times of India)