PM Modi’s Rajasthan Visit: Faith Meets Future in Bikaner
A Sacred Morning in Deshnok
Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his day on May 22 with a visit to the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok, Rajasthan. Known as the “Temple of Rats,” the shrine is not only a marvel of faith but also a cultural symbol of Rajasthan’s spiritual legacy. Modi’s folded hands and bowed head at the temple marked a moment of humble reverence, setting a spiritual tone for a day of groundbreaking development.
In a tweet after his visit, the Prime Minister said, “Blessed to have sought the divine blessings of Karni Mata. May Her blessings keep inspiring us to serve the nation with dedication.”
#WATCH | Bikaner, Rajasthan: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits and offers prayers at the Karni Mata temple in Deshnoke.
(Source: ANI/DD) pic.twitter.com/soECZE3pMF
— ANI (@ANI) May 22, 2025
Inaugurating Deshnok Railway Station: Inspired by Heritage
After offering prayers, PM Modi inaugurated the newly redeveloped Deshnok Railway Station, located near the temple. What makes this redevelopment special is its architecture—designed in the image of the Karni Mata Temple itself.
This initiative is part of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, which aims to modernize over 1,300 railway stations across India. Modi virtually inaugurated 103 stations from the venue, covering 18 states and Union Territories. The investment in this round alone is over ₹1,100 crore.
He emphasized how these modernized stations will not only improve travel experiences but also reflect local culture and heritage.
Bikaner-Mumbai Express: Strengthening Connectivity
From Deshnok, the Prime Minister flagged off the Bikaner-Mumbai Superfast Express, a new route designed to boost connectivity between the desert state and India’s financial capital. The express train will cut travel time significantly and enhance trade, tourism, and employment opportunities for people in both regions.
This launch symbolizes the government’s focus on reducing regional disparities and bringing Tier-II cities closer to metropolitan centers.
Rally at Palana: ₹26,000 Crore Development Projects Announced
A Roaring Welcome Despite the Heat
Even as the mercury soared above 45°C in Bikaner, thousands of people gathered in Palana village to hear PM Modi speak. Despite the harsh weather, their enthusiasm reflected deep trust in the Prime Minister’s leadership.
Modi opened his speech by thanking the crowd for braving the heat and said, “Your energy in this scorching sun shows the fire of development in this land.”
Transformative Infrastructure Push
At the rally, PM Modi laid the foundation stone and dedicated projects worth more than ₹26,000 crore, aimed at upgrading the region’s infrastructure and economic potential.
Key Highlights:
Railway Projects: Electrification of multiple rail routes, improving rail safety and efficiency.
Road Infrastructure: 12 state highways covering over 750 km are being redeveloped with ₹3,240 crore investment.
Water Projects: Several rural water supply schemes to provide safe drinking water in arid zones.
Energy Sector: 300 MW solar project by NEEPCO and 100 MW solar project by SJVN, reinforcing India’s green energy commitments.
Modi noted that under his leadership, infrastructure spending has increased 1.5 times compared to previous governments, saying, “Even the world is amazed at the pace at which we are developing.”
Symbolic Significance After ‘Operation Sindoor’
This visit holds extra significance as it comes just days after India’s successful military action, Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. Bikaner’s location near the Indo-Pak border adds a strategic angle to Modi’s presence.
Analysts view this as a show of strength, combining military success with development narratives ahead of the 2024 elections.
Modi remarked, “India will strike where needed and build where needed. We are not just protecting borders but building futures.”
Faith, Development, and People Power
This day in Rajasthan wasn’t just about ceremonies—it was a message. A message that India can pray and progress. That we can protect our traditions while planning smart cities. That people and policy can go hand in hand.
PM Modi’s itinerary captured the essence of his governance model: “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi”—Progress with Heritage.
From the temple steps in Deshnok to the dusty rally ground in Palana, one message was loud and clear: India is ready to leap forward, and its leadership is grounded in both spirituality and service.
