On November 15, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aircraft encountered a technical snag at Deoghar airport in Jharkhand, leading to a delay in his scheduled return to Delhi. This incident unfolded shortly after Modi concluded significant events in the region, marking a pivotal moment amid ongoing political activities as the state gears up for the upcoming Jharkhand Assembly elections.
Overview of the Incident
Technical Issues at Deoghar Airport
The aircraft was grounded at Deoghar airport due to safety protocols following the technical malfunction. A technical team was promptly deployed to assess and resolve the issue, ensuring that all safety measures were adhered to before the aircraft could take off again. This precautionary measure highlights the importance of safety in air travel, especially when it involves high-profile individuals like the Prime Minister.
Significance of Modi’s Visit
Earlier in the day, PM Modi participated in celebrations for Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, honoring the 150th birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda. During this event, he unveiled development projects worth ₹6,640 crore aimed at enhancing infrastructure and welfare for tribal communities. The Prime Minister emphasized that previous governments had overlooked the contributions of tribal communities in India’s freedom struggle and pledged that his administration would rectify this neglect by increasing budget allocations for tribal welfare significantly.
Political Context
Upcoming Jharkhand Assembly Elections
The delay in PM Modi’s return comes just days before the second phase of polling for the Jharkhand Assembly elections, scheduled for November 20. His visit to Jharkhand is part of a broader campaign strategy aimed at consolidating support among tribal voters and showcasing the government’s commitment to their development.
Opposition Responses
In a related incident, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi faced delays with his helicopter in Mahagama due to air traffic control restrictions. Congress leaders have alleged that this was a politically motivated obstruction by the BJP, underscoring the high-stakes environment surrounding the elections.
Highlights from PM Modi’s Address
During his address at the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebrations, PM Modi made several key points:
- Recognition of Tribal Contributions: He highlighted the historical significance of tribal communities in India’s independence movement and criticized previous governments for neglecting their contributions.
- Development Initiatives: Modi announced new initiatives aimed at improving living conditions in tribal areas, including investments totaling ₹80,000 crore for over 60,000 tribal villages through various welfare schemes.
- Cultural Engagement: The Prime Minister actively engaged with local traditions during his visit, participating in cultural performances and expressing solidarity with tribal communities.
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