VARANASI, Nov. 9 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday noted that over the past 11 years, developmental initiatives in Uttar Pradesh have elevated pilgrimage to a new level. Last year alone, 11 crore (110 million) devotees visited Varanasi for darshan of Baba Vishwanath. Since the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, over 6 crore people have visited the temple of Ram Lalla. Modi stated that these pilgrims have contributed thousands of crores of rupees to Uttar Pradesh's economy. He made the remarks while flagging off four new Vande Bharat trains in Varanasi.He remarked that this influx has provided sustained earning opportunities to hotels, traders, transport companies, local artists, and boat operators across the state. As a result, hundreds of youth in Varanasi are now launching new ventures, from transport services to Banarasi saree businesses.He said these developments have opened the doors of prosperity in UP and in Varanasi. He stated that to realise the mantra of a developed India through a developed Varanasi, continuous infrastructure development is underway in the city. He highlighted that Varanasi is witnessing the establishment, expansion and qualitative improvement of quality hospitals, improved roads, gas pipeline networks, and internet connectivity. He mentioned that rapid progress is being made on the ropeway project, and sports infrastructure such as the Ganjari and Sigra stadiums are also in place. The prime minister emphasised that the goal is to make visiting and living in Banaras a special experience for everyone. Noting that the government is consistently working to improve healthcare services in Varanasi, he recalled the situation 10-11 years ago, remarking that for serious illnesses, the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) hospital was the only option back then, and due to overwhelming patient numbers, many were unable to receive treatment even after waiting overnight. For diseases like cancer, people had to sell land and farms to seek treatment in Mumbai, he said.He affirmed that his government has worked to reduce these concerns. He listed the Mahamana Cancer Hospital for cancer treatment, Shankar Netralaya for eye care, the advanced trauma center and Centenary Hospital at BHU, and the divisional hospital at Pandeypur as institutions that have become a boon for Varanasi, Purvanchal, and the neighbouring states. He added that due to Ayushman Bharat and Jan Aushadhi Kendras in these hospitals, lakhs of poor patients are saving crores of rupees. "This has not only alleviated public anxiety but has also led to Varanasi being recognized as the health capital of the entire region," he said.He emphasised the need to sustain the momentum and energy of Varanasi's development. Every visitor from across the world should experience a unique energy, enthusiasm, and joy in the sacred city of Baba Vishwanath, he said....