Towards a Vibrant Varanasi

Published By : Admin | April 30, 2015 | 20:39 IST

Last year Prime Minister NarendraModi paid a successful visit to Japan. He visited a number of cities including Kyoto that is regarded as the cultural capital of Japan. Extensive discussions and meetings were held with experts to revive & develop India’s cultural capital of Kashi (present day Varanasi) just like Kyoto –where ancient history and culture go hand in hand with modernisation. The ‘Kashi-Kyoto’ pact was signed between India and Japan for developing the Kashi as the sister city of Kyoto.

 

As soon as the deal was inked, flow of teams began from Varanasi to Kyoto and from Kyoto to Kashi to get ideas on how culture could be preserved along with modernisation. Talks were held at the Kyoto University to gain insights on environment and solid waste management. Focus was on geographical location, citizen services and development. Wide-ranging discussions were held regarding proper disposal of garbage, sewage management, supply of clean drinking water and river basin management.

A Japanese technology team recently paid a visit to Kashi for studying and analysing the developmental prospects in the region. The experts noted that innovative research to modernise Kyoto could also be used in the developmental process of Kashi, the ancient city which is thickly populated and dependent on the River Ganga. The team also encouraged a detailed plan to be made to for developing the region.

The heritage zones in Kashi would be the first to receive a makeover with assistance from Kyoto. Discussions have been held regarding places like Sarnath, which is a Buddhist Circuit to give a boost to tourism in the area.

The ‘Kashi-Kyoto’ pact aimed at strengthening the partnership and expansion of the technological know-how between the cities, preserving rich heritage and culture along with modernisation will go a long way in providing a fresh perspective in improving our cities.

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Prime Minister lauds the inscription of ‘Maratha Military Landscapes of India’ on the UNESCO World Heritage List
July 12, 2025

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has expressed immense pride and joy over the inclusion of the Maratha Military Landscapes of India in the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List.

He noted that the inscribed heritage comprises 12 majestic forts- 11 located in Maharashtra and 1 in Tamil Nadu.

Highlighting the significance of the Maratha Empire, the Prime Minister remarked, “When we speak of the glorious Maratha Empire, we associate it with good governance, military strength, cultural pride and emphasis on social welfare. The great rulers inspire us with their refusal to bow to any injustice.”

He urged citizens to visit these forts to learn about the rich history of the Maratha Empire.

The Prime Minister also shared cherished memories from his 2014 visit to Raigad Fort, including a photograph where he paid tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Responding to the X post of UNESCO about aforesaid recognition, the Prime Minister said;

“Every Indian is elated with this recognition.

These ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ include 12 majestic forts, 11 of which are in Maharashtra and 1 is in Tamil Nadu.

When we speak of the glorious Maratha Empire, we associate it with good governance, military strength, cultural pride and emphasis on social welfare. The great rulers inspire us with their refusal to bow to any injustice.

I call upon everyone to go visit these forts and learn about the rich history of the Maratha Empire.”

“Here are pictures from my visit to Raigad Fort in 2014. Had the opportunity to bow to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Will always cherish that visit.”