Infrastructure – Anurag Thakur Highlights Development, Environment and National Priorities in Shimla
Infrastructure – Former Union Minister and BJP MP Anurag Thakur began his visit to Shimla on Monday by offering prayers at the Hanuman Temple in Jakhu, where he wished for the country’s continued progress and prosperity under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Following the temple visit, he joined a plantation campaign at Jakhu Hills, where he planted a Deodar sapling to promote environmental conservation. Senior BJP leader and former Himachal Pradesh minister Suresh Bharadwaj, along with several party members, also participated in the initiative.
Focus on Environmental Protection
Addressing the gathering after the plantation drive, Thakur stressed the importance of protecting nature through sustained afforestation efforts. He said expanding forest cover is essential to tackling the growing challenges posed by climate change and rising global temperatures.
Referring to the delayed arrival of this year’s monsoon, he noted that changing weather patterns have created difficulties for farmers and affected agricultural activities in several regions. He added that Himachal Pradesh plays an important ecological role because of its extensive forests, often described as the green lungs of northern India. According to him, preserving and expanding this natural wealth should remain a collective responsibility.
Development and Economic Progress
Speaking about India’s economic journey, Thakur said the country has witnessed significant progress over the past decade. He remarked that India has moved from being grouped among vulnerable economies to becoming the world’s fifth-largest economy while maintaining one of the fastest growth rates among major nations.
He also highlighted government welfare initiatives, stating that millions of people have moved out of poverty due to development-focused policies and programmes aimed at improving living standards. According to Thakur, these achievements reflect a long-term commitment to economic growth and public welfare.
Call for Greater Public Participation in Cleanliness
During his interaction with the media, Thakur urged citizens to actively support cleanliness efforts across the country. He observed that many Indians maintain public discipline while travelling abroad but often overlook similar responsibilities at home.
He encouraged people to keep their neighbourhoods, villages, markets and public spaces clean, saying that maintaining hygiene should not depend solely on government agencies. He described public participation as a key factor in achieving the objectives of nationwide cleanliness initiatives.
Remarks on West Bengal and Illegal Immigration
Responding to questions on the political situation in West Bengal, Thakur alleged that the state has faced persistent issues related to law and order, illegal infiltration and organised crime. He said efforts are underway to identify individuals who have entered the country unlawfully and expressed confidence in the BJP’s organisational work in the state.
He maintained that strengthening internal security and ensuring strict enforcement of the law remain important priorities for the party.
Uniform Civil Code and Pakistan Comments
Thakur reiterated the BJP’s commitment to implementing the Uniform Civil Code across the country. He pointed out that Uttarakhand has already introduced the legislation and said additional states may also move in the same direction in the future.
Reacting to recent remarks from Pakistan following the India-Pakistan cricket match, Thakur dismissed the statements, saying Pakistan frequently attempts to divert attention from its domestic challenges by making allegations against India. He asserted that India remains focused on its own development and national interests.