On Wednesday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath participated in the Janpadiya Vikas Utsav in Agra, commemorating eight years of his administration in the state. He showcased the advancements made in Uttar Pradesh under the principles of service, security, and effective governance, emphasizing significant developmental milestones.

During the event, CM Yogi interacted with beneficiaries of various government schemes, toured an exhibition focused on public welfare initiatives, and either inaugurated or laid the foundation for 128 projects valued at Rs 635 crore. A documentary titled ‘Ek Jhalak,’ which highlighted the accomplishments of the Yogi government over the past eight years, was also presented.

Addressing the attendees, CM Yogi stated that Agra’s identity is deeply rooted in Brajbhoomi, Vrindavan Bihari Lal, and Radha Rani—not the Mughals. He asserted that if Agra were to be associated with any historical figure, it should be Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

The Chief Minister criticized the previous government for naming a museum in Agra after the Mughals, questioning its relevance: “What connection do the Mughals have with Agra?” He pointed out that his administration has renamed the museum in honor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and is advancing plans for a grand memorial dedicated to him.

Emphasizing the balanced approach of his double-engine government, he remarked that heritage and development are receiving equal attention. He also noted that Agra’s famous Petha and leather industries have been rejuvenated under his leadership, with efforts underway to elevate Bateshwar on the global stage.

CM Yogi recalled the turmoil that afflicted Uttar Pradesh prior to 2017 under the Samajwadi Party’s governance, where lawlessness, crime, and mafia rule dominated. He remarked, “Those over 25 will remember the anarchy of that time—when crime, mafia rule, and hooliganism were rampant, leaving the youth in an identity crisis, farmers in despair, and the poor struggling with hunger.”

He reflected on the state of roads plagued with potholes, the darkness after sunset, and frequent communal violence that marred Uttar Pradesh’s image before 2017. Drawing attention to the opposition, he pointed out that those responsible for the state’s previous crisis are now spreading false propaganda.

Additionally, CM Yogi accused the opposition of hindering development and misleading the public, especially during the COVID crisis. He stated that while his government fought the pandemic under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the opposition was busy spreading misinformation. “They discouraged people from getting tested or seeking treatment, while our double-engine government ensured free tests, treatment, vaccines, and rations,” he said.

He further condemned the opposition’s stance against the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, highlighting the attempts by Congress and SP to mislead the public during the consecration of Ram Lalla after 500 years, even as the world celebrated.

CM Yogi also celebrated the overwhelming turnout at the recently concluded Prayagraj Mahakumbh, which attracted over 66 crore devotees, while the opposition continued its divisive rhetoric. He criticized their inability to promote genuine development in the past, stating they now attempt to obstruct progress.

The Chief Minister shared a vision for Uttar Pradesh’s transformation, revealing that eight years ago, the state was labeled a ‘BIMARU state,’ but has now emerged as the second-largest economy in the country. He confidently projected that Uttar Pradesh would soon claim the top position.

Highlighting numerous initiatives benefiting farmers, youth, and the underprivileged, he recalled the dark past where farmers faced extreme distress. His government has waived loans for small and marginal farmers, resulting in over 2.62 crore farmers receiving Rs 80,000 crore under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, along with Rs 2,80,000 crore transferred to sugarcane farmers, making them self-reliant contributors to the state’s progress.

In terms of employment, CM Yogi announced that his government has provided over 8.30 lakh government jobs, including the recruitment of 12,000 women in the recent expansion of the police force.

He remarked, “While previous governments fostered ‘One District, One Mafia,’ we introduced ‘One District, One Medical College’ and ‘One District, One Product.’”

The Chief Minister concluded by highlighting the significant infrastructure advancements in Uttar Pradesh, pointing to the state’s leadership in expressways, metro networks, railway connectivity, highways, and airports. Notably, Uttar Pradesh ranks first in the production of food grains, potatoes, sugarcane, and ethanol.