Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited his parliamentary constituency Varanasi on Saturday, where he inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth around ₹2,200 crore. The event, held at Banauli (Kalikadham) in Sevapuri, also marked the release of the 20th installment of the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. As part of the scheme, Rs 21,000 crore were directly transferred to the bank accounts of 10 crore farmers across the country.
Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister began his speech in Bhojpuri, connecting with the local audience. He referred to the day’s event as a “grand Kisan Utsav,” adding, “And when something goes from Kashi, it automatically becomes prasad.” PM Modi also emphasized the spiritual timing of the gathering, stating, “It is the month of Sawan, the sacred land of Kashi, and an occasion to connect with farmers across the country—what could be more fortunate than this?”
Reflecting on national security, he spoke emotionally about the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. “This is my first visit to Kashi after Operation Sindoor. On April 22, 26 innocent civilians were brutally killed. My heart was full of sorrow,” Modi said. “I had taken a vow to avenge the sindoor of our daughters, and with the blessings of Mahadev, that vow has been fulfilled.” He added, “The success of Operation Sindoor was possible due to the unity of 140 crore Indians. I dedicate this success to the feet of Mahadev.”
The Prime Minister also expressed his desire to visit the Kashi Vishwanath temple during the month of Sawan but refrained, citing concern for other devotees’ convenience. “I bow down before Bholenath and Maa Ganga from here,” he said.
Taking a swipe at the opposition, PM Modi said, “When the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi was launched in 2019, anti-development groups like SP and Congress spread rumours against it. But today, ₹21,000 crore have reached 10 crore farmers directly, silencing those who tried to mislead the farmers.”
Speaking further PM Modi said, "Our government is working tirelessly for the welfare of farmers. The earlier governments did not even fulfil one scheme they had promised. BJP government delivers what it promises. PM Kisan Samman Nidhi has become an example of the strong will and intentions of the government. The anti-development governments like SP and Congress would spread rumours and mislead people in all ways possible. This is very unfortunate for the country that a hopeless opposition is living with these false hopes. All they can do is lie to the farmers and mislead them. PM Kisan Samman Nidhi has been ongoing without a break since its inception. So far, Rs 3.75 lakh crore have been credited into the accounts of beneficiary farmers. Farmers of Kashi alone have received Rs 900 crores."
PM Modi also emphasised, ‘When there is injustice and terror, Mahadev reveals his fierce ‘Rudra roop.’ The world witnessed this powerful side of India during Operation Sindoor. Anyone who challenges India will not find refuge even in the depths of ‘pataal lok’ (the netherworld). Unfortunately, some people are unhappy with the success of Operation Sindoor. The Congress party and its associates have been unable to accept the fact that India successfully destroyed Pakistan’s terror camps.’”
PM Modi also asserted that anyone who attacks India will not be spared even in the depths of the netherworld. He stated that the opposition parties are unable to accept the success of Operation Sindoor. The Congress party and its supporters continue to insult the armed forces. While the terrorists’ leaders are in despair, the Congress and the Samajwadi Party mourn the condition of these terrorists. Modi also criticised Congress for calling Operation Sindoor a spectacle, asking rhetorically, “Can Operation Sindoor ever be a spectacle?”
PM Modi also highlighted the strength and growing capabilities of India’s indigenous defence systems showcased during Operation Sindoor. He pointed to the performance of domestically developed air defence systems, missiles, and drones as evidence of the success of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. Special emphasis was placed on the BrahMos missile system, which he noted would soon be manufactured in Lucknow as part of efforts to boost local defence production.
The Prime Minister also said that several leading defence companies are establishing manufacturing units within the Uttar Pradesh Defence Corridor. He added that “Made in India” weapons are steadily becoming a major pillar of India’s military strength, reflecting the government's push for self-reliance in the defence sector.
In addition to infrastructure and agriculture initiatives, PM Modi distributed more than 7,400 assistive devices to differently-abled (Divyangjan) and elderly beneficiaries as part of the government’s inclusion-focused welfare schemes. The projects launched aim to enhance connectivity, public utilities, education, and healthcare in Varanasi and surrounding regions.
