 Early Times Report
KATHUA, June 16: BJP spokesperson and Convenor, International Affairs, Gaurav Gupta today addressed a press conference at Basohli, highlighting the transformative achievements of the Narendra Modi-led Government over the last 12 years. He said, "Bharat has not merely changed; Bharat has been redefined."
The press conference was organised by Gopal Krishan, District President, BJP Kathua. Among those present were Rajinder Jaswal, District General Secretary, Rajeshwar Singh, District Vice President, Col. Mahan Singh (Retd.), former DDC Chairman Kathua, Vikram Singh, DDC Member Billawar, Suresh Spolia, former MC President Basohli, Sushma Jamwal, former DDC Chairperson, and Omkant Basotra, former MC President Billawar.
Addressing media persons, Gupta said that the development of Basohli and the wider Jammu region reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a strong, connected and self-reliant India. He highlighted the GI Tag for Basohli Paintings and the recognition of Pashmina products, which have preserved cultural heritage while creating livelihood opportunities for artisans.
He said major infrastructure projects such as the Basohli-Bani-Bhaderwah road corridor, Sewal Bridge and Atal Setu have significantly improved connectivity, trade and tourism across the region.
Highlighting key national achievements, Gupta said the Modi Government fulfilled a historic commitment through the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, ensuring complete constitutional integration of Jammu and Kashmir. He also described the inauguration of the Shri Ram Mandir at Ayodhya as a landmark moment in India's civilisational journey.
Speaking on Digital India, Gupta said the UPI revolution has made India the world's largest real-time digital payments ecosystem, with QR-code based transactions becoming part of everyday life. He noted that India has emerged as the world's second-largest mobile phone manufacturer and a leading exporter of smartphones, including to the United States.
Gupta highlighted the success of Ayushman Bharat, providing healthcare coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh to more than 55 crore beneficiaries. He said India's highway network has expanded from about 91,000 km in 2014 to over 1.46 lakh km, while the number of airports, heliports and water aerodromes has increased from 74 to more than 150.
Referring to engineering milestones, he praised the Chenab Rail Bridge, the world's highest railway arch bridge, and the Zojila Tunnel, which will provide all-weather connectivity to Ladakh.
On technology and innovation, Gupta said Chandrayaan-3 established India as a global space power through a successful landing near the Moon's south polar region. He also highlighted one of the world's fastest 5G rollouts, bringing next-generation connectivity across the country.
Gupta said the India Semiconductor Mission and the proposed ISM 2.0 are laying the foundation for a domestic semiconductor ecosystem, while the IndiaAI Mission is strengthening AI infrastructure, innovation and skill development, positioning India as a future technology leader.
He further noted that Startup India has helped create one of the world's fastest-growing startup ecosystems with over 1.5 lakh registered startups. He highlighted the success of Vande Bharat trains, the sharp rise in defence exports from around Rs 700 crore to over Rs 23,000 crore, and the achievements of the Jal Jeevan Mission, which has provided tap water connections to more than 15 crore rural households. |
