Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said,” Ayodhya Dham is now flourishing. While the grand temple of Lord Ram Lalla has been built, we must ask why we had to wait 500 years for this moment.” He asked, “Why did invaders destroy the magnificent temple of Lord Ramlala and impose a structure symbolizing slavery? The answer lies in our disunity. Hum Bate The, To Kate The. Therefore, let us not be divided and move forward together in an atmosphere of development and security. ”

He said this after inaugurating and laying the foundation for 127 development projects worth Rs 765 crore in Gopalpur, Vikaskhand Pahadi, Mirzapur. The CM said the double-engine government is committed to standing by the common people through every joy and sorrow, working diligently to improve the present and create a brighter future.

More than 1,500 youths were given smartphones and tablets under the Swami Vivekananda Yuva Sashaktikaran Yojana at the event. He also presented a cheque of approximately Rs 4 crores as the first instalment for the establishment of a fish feed plant. He also honoured beneficiaries of various schemes and launched the Vidya Shakti portal with the press of a button.

Yogi Adityanath said, “Before 2017, the mafia operated like a parallel government, dominating sectors like mining, cattle trade, organized crime, and land grabbing. When their convoys passed, public representatives were filled with fear, and the administration yielded to them. Nobody dared to confront the mafia.He noted, “Today, the same criminals are pleading for mercy and are willing to make an honest living by setting up small stalls. They no longer instill fear in anyone. Now, no one dares to threaten the safety of our daughters, exploit traders, or seize farmers’ land or demolish the homes of the poor.”

Taking a jab at the opposition, the CM said, “Those who shamelessly played the caste card, used to grovel before the mafia, dangerous criminals, and rioters. Now, as the state makes rapid strides in development, these same people seek to act as obstacles again. By doing so, they are not only endangering the present but also jeopardizing the future of coming generations. We must not allow the mafia to rise again.”

The CM remarked that ten years ago, Mirzapur district suffered from poor connectivity, and the underprivileged were deprived of government schemes. “The condition of the sacred Maa Vindhyavasini Dham and the famous Shaktipeeths, known as the triangle of power, was dismal. The roads were in a sorry state, and the reign of gangsters and mafias was well-known”, he pointed out.

The CM emphasized that in the past decade, especially in the last seven- and a- half years, people have witnessed the transformation of India, Uttar Pradesh, and Mirzapur. “Today, Mirzapur will no longer need to beg for recognition, as the sacred home of Maa Vindhyavasini has taken on a magnificent and divine presence. In the past, benefits were distributed unfairly, but we have ensured that people are not divided by caste or faction”, he stated.

Yogi Adityanath highlighted that five years ago, the lanes of Maa Vindhyavasini Dham were narrow, and during Navratri, there was an atmosphere of fear. However, this year’s Navratri, starting from October 3, will showcase a divine and grand Dham. “Had the previous governments taken similar initiatives, the faith of the people would have been upheld. Now, Mirzapur has its medical college, which previously had no such institution between BHU and Prayagraj. A university in the name of Maa Vindhyavasini is also set to be established, with courses starting in the upcoming academic session. The district is now well-connected with four-lane roads.”

Speaking about the Barh Sagar project, he recalled the PM’s words during its inauguration, where he mentioned that two- and- a half lakh hectares of land would receive irrigation facilities, greatly benefiting farmers. Addressing the drinking water crisis in the Vindhya region was another challenge.

He added: “Admissions have already begun at Sonbhadra Medical College, and nursing courses will soon commence at Mirzapur Medical College, ensuring that daughters from the region will no longer need to go elsewhere for education, with a guarantee of 100% placement. Educating girls ensures their future success.”

CM Yogi also remarked on the global respect PM Modi commands, noting how he is welcomed warmly in every country he visits because all his actions are dedicated to the nation. Many in this region were previously excluded from government schemes, but the current administration has made efforts to include tribes like the Kol, Chero, Gaur, and Tharu living in the Nepal border areas in various welfare programs, he further pointed out.

He also highlighted about an upcoming exhibition at the Expo Mart in Bhadohi, where artisans and craftsmen will have the opportunity to showcase their carpets and secure new orders. The International Trade Show, to be held in Greater Noida from September 25 to 29, will also feature carpets from Mirzapur and Bhadohi. This platform will allow local products to be displayed to a global audience. Exporting these goods could bring substantial profits, and as capital flows into the region, it will drive development in Mirzapur, Bhadohi, and Sonbhadra.

Yogi Adityanath stated that it’s a new Uttar Pradesh today, where Kashi Vishwanath Dham is radiating magnificently, and in 2025, Prayagraj will witness a grand and divine Kumbh. Devotees visiting Kashi or the Kumbh will also be drawn to Maa Vindhyavasini Dham. Mirzapur, he added, is in a fortunate position, enjoying the best of both worlds. Earlier , CM Yogi Adityanath offered prayers at the Maa Vindhyavasini Temple. He also reviewed preparations for the upcoming Sharadiya Navratri, which begins on October 3.