Lakhimpur Kheri (UP), Feb 22 (Reporter) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 373 projects worth Rs 1,622 crore at Rajendra Giri Memorial Stadium in Lkahimpur Kheri district. The CM also launched the 'Chhoti Kashi' Gola Gokarannath Shiva Temple Corridor, declaring that Lakhimpur Kheri is no longer backward and said that its fertile land now yields gold. He recalled Lakhimpur Kheri's underdevelopment at independence which was plagued by malaria and poor accessibility despite Dudhwa National Park. "Now, an Airstrip in Palia is set to become a full-fledged Airport, and flood prevention measures are underway," he said. Assuring no regulatory hurdles, Yogi emphasised the double-engine government's vision to boost spiritual and eco-tourism, creating ample jobs. "With its fertile land yielding 'gold', Lakhimpur Kheri is on the path to transformation," he said. He emphasised that Lakhimpur Kheri has progressed beyond its status as a backward district. "Nearly Rs 4,500 crore worth of projects have been inaugurated and launched in this district. These include the Gola Gokarannath Temple Corridor and the country's first PLA plant (bio-plastic manufacturing) set up by Balrampur Chini Mills Limited," he said. The CM said, "Lakhimpur now boasts not just Dudhwa National Park but also a new medical college. Numerous development projects will ease the lives of the people and create new employment opportunities. This progress has been made possible through the guidance of PM Modi, government support, and the dedication of public representatives," he said. He addressed Lakhimpur Kheri's past connectivity challenges, particularly the uncertainty surrounding the Bahraich-Mailani railway line. He assured that the government would allocate necessary funds to enhance tourism through improved rail connectivity, expressing confidence in Indian Railways' positive initiatives to boost tourism. Besides, he lauded the Tharu tribal women's efforts in preserving their culture and producing handicrafts, which have been recognised under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme. He said that even the PM has acknowledged their efforts. Yogi credited the region's public representatives for actively participating in development initiatives. "From building a medical college and developing an airstrip into an Airport to enhancing eco-tourism at Dudhwa National Park, setting up a PLA plant, and constructing the Gola Gokarnath Corridor, each initiative reflects their dedication," he said. He expressed optimism that Lakhimpur Kheri would soon become one of the most developed districts in the state. The CM highlighted the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh as a testament to UP's organisational prowess, with nearly 60 crore devotees participating in the sacred bathing ritual between January 13 and February 22. He criticised detractors attempting to tarnish the state's reputation and emphasised that development fosters job creation and self-reliance, laying the foundation for a developed India. "The successful Maha Kumbh has, according to him, silenced critics opposing progress and innovation," he said. Yogi directed the administration to ensure proper rehabilitation for those displaced by the Gola Gokarannath Corridor development. "Families losing homes are to be provided with suitable housing, and shop owners are to receive organised commercial spaces. The government's goal is to enhance the region's beauty and improve residents' lives without leaving anyone without shelter or livelihood," he said. Before the event, he offered prayers at the Gola Gokarannath Shiva Temple, extending Maha Shivaratri greetings and expressing gratitude for contributing to the temple's development. He requested citizens to include him in their Shivaratri prayers...////...