Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated development works in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh today. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister bowed at the feet of Goddess of Knowledge—Vagdevi, the revered mother of Dhar Bhojshala. Adding that today marks the birth anniversary of Lord Vishwakarma, the divine architect and deity of skill and creation, Shri Modi offered salutations to Lord Vishwakarma. He also paid respects to the crores of brothers and sisters who are engaged in nation-building through their craftsmanship and dedication.

Remarking that the land of Dhar has always inspired valour, Shri Modi highlighted, “the bravery of Maharaja Bhoj teaches us to stand firm in defence of national pride”. He further added that the sacrifice of Maharshi Dadhichi gives us the resolve to serve humanity. Drawing inspiration from this legacy, the Prime Minister stated that today, the nation gives topmost priority to the security of Mother India. He recalled that terrorists from Pakistan had shattered the sindoor of our sisters and daughters, and affirmed that through Operation Sindoor, we destroyed their terror hideouts. Shri Modi emphasized that our brave soldiers brought Pakistan to its knees in the blink of an eye. Referring to a recent incident, he noted that just yesterday, another Pakistani terrorist was crying and narrating his ordeal.

“This is the new India, one that does not fear anyone’s nuclear threats and responds by striking directly at the source”, exclaimed the Prime Minister. He highlighted that 17th September marks a historic occasion when the nation witnessed the iron resolve of Sardar Patel. On this day, the Indian Army liberated Hyderabad from numerous atrocities and integrated it with India. Shri Modi emphasized that this monumental achievement and the valour of the armed forces have now been formally honoured by the government. The day is now commemorated as Hyderabad Liberation Day, symbolizing India’s unity. He underscored that Hyderabad Liberation Day serves as a reminder that nothing is greater than the honour, pride, and glory of Mother India. He affirmed that every moment of life must be dedicated to the nation.

Underlining that our freedom fighters, taking an oath to sacrifice everything for the nation, dedicated their lives to the country, Shri Modi emphasized that their dream was a developed India, free from the chains of colonial rule and advancing rapidly. Drawing inspiration from this legacy, he noted that today, 140 crore Indians have resolved to build a developed India. Outlining four key pillars of this journey: India’s women power, youth power, the poor, and farmers, the Prime Minister highlighted that today’s programme has strengthened all four pillars of a developed India. He acknowledged the large presence of mothers, sisters, and daughters at the event and underscored the special focus given to women empowerment and stated, “from this platform, ‘Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar’ campaign has been launched.”

Noting that the resonance of the ‘Aadi Seva Parv’ is already being heard across the country in various phases, Shri Modi announced the launch of its Madhya Pradesh edition from today. The Prime Minister emphasized that this campaign will serve as a bridge to directly connect the tribal communities of Madhya Pradesh, including those in Dhar, with various government schemes.

Announcing a major industrial initiative on the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti, marking the foundation of India’s largest integrated textile park in Dhar, the Prime Minister stated that this park will infuse new energy into the country’s textile industry. He emphasized that farmers will receive fair value for their produce and a large number of youth will gain employment opportunities. He extended his congratulations to all citizens for these projects and campaigns.

Emphasising that mothers and sisters—India’s Nari Shakti—are the foundation of the nation’s progress, the PM noted that when a mother is healthy, the entire household functions well, but if she falls ill, the entire family system is disrupted. He underscored the critical importance of the ‘Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar’ campaign, stating that no woman should suffer due to lack of awareness or resources. Shri Modi highlighted that many diseases silently develop and become severe due to late detection, especially those posing high risks to women. Under this campaign, screenings will be conducted for conditions ranging from blood pressure and diabetes to anaemia, tuberculosis, and cancer. He assured that all tests and medicines will be provided free of cost, with the government bearing the expenses. For further treatment, the Ayushman Card will serve as a protective shield. He added that the campaign will run from today until 2nd October. The Prime Minister urged mothers, sisters, and daughters across the country to take time for their own health, participate in these camps in large numbers, and spread awareness among other women in their communities. He called for a collective resolve—no mother should be left behind, no daughter should fall behind.

Prime Minister affirmed that the health of mothers, sisters, and daughters is a national priority. He stated that the government is working in mission mode to ensure proper nutrition for pregnant women and girls. He announced the commencement of the eighth National Nutrition Month from today. Shri Modi further emphasized that in a developing India, reducing maternal and infant mortality rates is essential. To achieve this, the government launched the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana in 2017. Under this scheme, ₹5,000 is transferred directly to the bank account upon the birth of the first child, and ₹6,000 upon the birth of a second daughter. The PM noted that so far, 4.5 crore pregnant mothers have benefited from the scheme, with over ₹19,000 crore disbursed. He added that on this day alone, assistance was sent to over 15 lakh pregnant women with a single click, amounting to more than ₹450 crore directly credited to their accounts.

Highlighting another major health initiative from the soil of Madhya Pradesh, addressing the serious challenge of sickle cell anaemia in tribal regions, the Prime Minister stated that the government is running a national mission to protect tribal communities from this disease. The mission was launched in 2023 from Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh, where the first sickle cell screening card was issued. Shri Modi said, “today, the one croreth screening card has been distributed in Madhya Pradesh and Under this campaign, more than five crore individuals have been screened across the country”. The Prime Minister emphasized that sickle cell screening has helped safeguard the lives of lakhs of people in tribal communities. He made a special appeal to tribal mothers and sisters to ensure they undergo screening for sickle cell anaemia.

Underscoring that his consistent effort has been to make the lives of mothers and sisters easier and to reduce their hardships, Shri Modi highlighted that initiatives like the construction of crores of toilets under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, the provision of free LPG connections under the Ujjwala Yojana, and the Jal Jeevan Mission to ensure household water supply have significantly eased daily challenges for women. The PM emphasized that the Ayushman Bharat scheme, offering free treatment up to ₹5 lakh, has improved women’s health outcomes. Referring to the PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, he noted that the free ration scheme ensured that even during the difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic, the kitchen fires of poor mothers did not extinguish. He added that free grain distribution continues under this scheme. The Prime Minister also pointed out that most of the homes provided under the PM Awas Yojana have been registered in the names of women.

Emphasising that the government is strongly focused on economically empowering women, Shri Modi stated that crores of women are availing loans through the Mudra Yojana to start new businesses and set up industries. He further stated that the government is actively working to transform three crore women into ‘Lakhpati Didis’, with nearly two crore already achieving this milestone. Women are being positioned at the heart of the rural economy by being trained as Bank Sakhis and Drone Didis. Through self-help groups, women are driving a new wave of transformation, the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister highlighted that over the past 11 years, welfare of the poor and improving their lives has been the government’s highest priority. He affirmed the belief that the nation can progress only when the poor progress. He noted that service to the poor never goes in vain; with even a little support, they demonstrate the courage to overcome immense challenges. Shri Modi shared that he has personally lived through the emotions and struggles of the poor, making their pain his own. He reiterated that service to the poor is the greatest purpose of his life. Accordingly, the government continues to design and implement schemes with the poor at the centre.

Stressing that the impact of the government’s policies is now visible to the world, with 25 crore people in India having risen out of poverty, the PM emphasized that this transformation has instilled a new sense of confidence across society. The Prime Minister clarified that these efforts are not merely schemes—they are guarantees of change in the lives of poor mothers, sisters, and daughters. He affirmed that bringing a smile to the face of the poor and safeguarding the dignity of women is his highest devotion and unwavering commitment.

Highlighting the rich tradition of Maheshwari textiles in Madhya Pradesh, noting that Devi Ahilyabai Holkar had given the Maheshwari saree a new dimension, the PM recalled the recent celebration of her 300th birth anniversary and stated that her legacy is now being advanced through the PM MITRA Park in Dhar. Shri Modi explained that the park will provide easy access to essential weaving materials like cotton and silk, simplify quality checks, and enhance market connectivity. He emphasized that spinning, designing, processing, and export will all take place within the same facility, making the entire textile value chain available at one location. He reiterated the government’s commitment to the 5F vision for the textile industry—Farm to Fibre, Fibre to Factory, Factory to Fashion, and Fashion to Foreign—ensuring a faster and more seamless journey from production to global markets.

Noting that approximately 1,300 acres of land have been allocated for the PM MITRA Park in Dhar, with over 80 industrial units already allotted, the Prime Minister stated that infrastructure development and factory construction will proceed simultaneously. The park is expected to generate three lakh new employment opportunities. Shri Modi emphasized that the park will significantly reduce logistics and manufacturing costs, making Indian products more affordable and globally competitive. He extended special congratulations to the people of Madhya Pradesh for this initiative and informed that the government is planning to establish six more PM MITRA Parks across the country.

Prime Minister highlighted the nationwide celebration of Vishwakarma Puja and described it as a moment to also celebrate the success of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana. He extended special greetings to Vishwakarma brothers and sisters across the country, including carpenters, blacksmiths, goldsmiths, potters, masons, artisans in brass, copper, and other traditional crafts. He acknowledged their vital role as a driving force behind the Make in India initiative, noting that their products and skills fulfill everyday needs in both villages and cities. Shri Modi expressed satisfaction that the PM Vishwakarma Yojana has supported over 30 lakh artisans and craftsmen in a short span. Elaborating further, he said through this scheme, beneficiaries have received skill training, access to digital marketing, and modern tools. He added that more than six lakh Vishwakarma partners have been provided with new equipment, and loans exceeding ₹4,000 crore have been disbursed to support their work.

Shri Modi stated that the PM Vishwakarma Yojana has most significantly benefited those sections of society that were neglected for decades. He emphasized that poor Vishwakarma brothers and sisters possessed skills, but previous governments had no plans to advance their talents or improve their lives. The current government, he said, has created pathways to transform their craftsmanship into progress. Reiterating his commitment, Shri Modi affirmed that those who are left behind remain the government's top priority. 

The Prime Minister acknowledged Dhar as the birthplace of the revered Kushabhau Thakre, who dedicated his entire life to the nation with the spirit of “Nation First.” He paid his respectful tribute to Kushabhau Thakre and stated that this very spirit of putting the nation first continues to inspire India’s rise to new heights.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi emphasized that the festive season is also a time to reaffirm the mantra of Swadeshi. He urged citizens to ensure that whatever they buy or sell is made in India. Recalling Mahatma Gandhi’s use of Swadeshi as a tool for independence, the Prime Minister stated that it must now become the foundation of a developed India. He explained that this will be possible only when people take pride in Swadeshi products. Shri Modi encouraged citizens to choose Indian-made goods—whether small items, toys for children, Diwali idols, home décor, or larger purchases like mobiles, TVs, and refrigerators. He stressed the importance of checking whether a product is made in India, as buying Swadeshi keeps money within the country, prevents capital outflow, and contributes directly to national development. This money, he noted, helps build roads, village schools, primary health centres, and supports welfare schemes that reach the poor.

The Prime Minister highlighted that when essential goods are manufactured domestically, they generate employment for fellow citizens. With reduced GST rates coming into effect from 22nd September, coinciding with the start of Navratri, he urged everyone to purchase Swadeshi products and benefit from the revised rates. He concluded with a call to remember and repeat the mantra—“Say with pride: this is Swadeshi”—and extended his festive greetings to all.

Governor of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Mangubhai Patel, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Mohan Yadav, Union Minister Smt Savitri Thakur were present among other dignitaries at the event.

Background

In line with his commitment to Health, Poshan, Fitness, and a Swashth and Sashakt Bharat, Prime Minister launched the ‘Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar’ and ‘8th Rashtriya Poshan Maah’ campaigns. The campaign will be organized from 17th September to 2nd October at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, Community Health Centres (CHCs), District Hospitals and other government health facilities across the country. More than one lakh health camps will be organized, making this the largest ever health outreach for women and children in the country. Daily health camps will be held in all government health facilities nationwide.

This nationwide intensified campaign seeks to provide women-centric preventive, promotive, and curative health services at the community level. It will strengthen screening, early detection, and treatment linkages for non-communicable diseases, anaemia, tuberculosis, and sickle cell disease, while also promoting maternal, child, and adolescent health through antenatal care, immunisation, nutrition, menstrual hygiene, lifestyle and mental health awareness activities. Specialist services including Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Eye, ENT, Dental, Dermatology, and Psychiatry will be mobilized through Medical Colleges, District Hospitals, Central Government institutions, and private hospitals.

Under the campaign nationwide blood donation drives will also be organised. Donors will be registered on the e-Raktkosh portal and pledge campaigns will be run through MyGov. Beneficiaries will be enrolled under PM-JAY, Ayushman Vaya Vandana, and ABHA. Helpdesks will be set up at health camps for card verification and grievance redressal. Yoga sessions, Ayurveda consultations, and other Ayush services will be organised to promote holistic health and wellness practices for women and families. The campaign will also mobilise communities towards healthy lifestyle practices with a special emphasis on obesity prevention, improved nutrition, and voluntary blood donation. Citizens will also be encouraged to register as Nikshay Mitras on the dedicated platform (www.nikshay.in) to support TB patients with nutrition, counselling and care in a whole of society approach.

Prime Minister also transferred funds under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana directly into the bank accounts of eligible women across the country with a single click. Nearly ten lakh women in the country will benefit.

Prime Minister launched the Suman Sakhi Chatbot, to raise awareness on maternal and child health. The chatbot will provide timely and accurate information to pregnant women in rural and remote areas, ensuring access to essential health services.

Furthering the nation's collective fight against sickle cell anaemia, Prime Minister distributed the one-croreth Sickle Cell Screening and Counselling Card for the state.

As part of the Adi Karmyogi Abhiyan, Prime Minister launched the ‘Adi Seva Parv’, for MP, which will symbolize the confluence of tribal pride and spirit of nation-building. The initiative will include a series of service-oriented activities in tribal regions, focusing on health, education, nutrition, skill development, livelihood enhancement, sanitation, water conservation, and environmental protection. A special emphasis will be laid on the Tribal Village Action Plan and Tribal Village Vision 2030, aimed at preparing long-term development roadmaps for each village.

In line with his 5F Vision – Farm to Fibre, Fibre to Factory, Factory to Fashion, and Fashion to Foreign, Prime Minister inaugurated the PM MITRA Park in Dhar. Spread over more than 2,150 acres, the park will be equipped with world-class facilities, including Common Effluent Treatment Plant, solar power plant, modern roads among others making it an ideal industrial township. It will also significantly benefit the cotton growers in the region by enhancing farmers’ income by providing better value for their produce.

Various textile companies have committed investment proposals worth over Rs 23,140 crore, paving the way for new industries and large-scale employment. It will generate nearly 3 lakh employment opportunities while significantly boosting exports.

In line with his commitment to environmental conservation and women’s economic empowerment, Prime Minister gifted a sapling to a beneficiary of a women’s self-help group under the Ek Bagiya Maa Ke Naam initiative of the state. Over 10,000 women in Madhya Pradesh will develop ‘Maa Ki Bagiya’. Women’s groups are also being provided with all necessary resources to ensure plant protection.

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MJPS/SR