Hindi Heartland witness to many firsts in 2024

Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh made remarkable strides in 2024, achieving significant milestones that strengthened the state's development trajectory. From historic moments in Ayodhya to advancements in health, education, and infrastructure, the year brought national and international recognition to the state. 

Ram Lalla Installed in Ayodhya After 500 Years

On January 22, 2024, Uttar Pradesh witnessed a historic event as Prime Minister Narendra Modi ceremoniously installed Ram Lalla at the Ayodhya Shri Ram Temple. The event, held in the presence of CM Yogi Adityanath, marked the culmination of a 500-year wait and a milestone in India's spiritual and cultural history.

Implementation of ₹10 Lakh Crore Investment Projects

Building on the momentum of the Global Investors Summit 2023, Uttar Pradesh commenced work on ₹10 lakh crore worth of investment projects in early 2024. At an event held on February 19-20 at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, Prime Minister Modi officially launched these projects, bolstering industrial growth and job creation across the state.

Revolutionizing Healthcare

The year saw transformative advancements in Uttar Pradesh's healthcare sector, with the establishment of 18 new medical colleges in districts such as Bijnor, Bulandshahr, Kushinagar, and Pilibhit. Additionally, the virtual inauguration of AIIMS Raebareli by PM Modi on February 25 expanded specialized medical care in the region. Alongside AIIMS in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh is emerging as a hub for advanced healthcare.

Tripling Scholarships for Sanskrit Students

For the first time in 24 years, the Yogi government increased scholarships for Sanskrit students threefold, benefiting over 1.5 lakh students. Scholarships were also extended to students in grades 6, 7, and 8, demonstrating a commitment to preserving and promoting India's ancient language and culture.

A Guinness World Record at Deepotsav 2024

The annual Deepotsav in Ayodhya set a new Guinness World Record with 25,12,585 earthen lamps lit during the celebrations. Additionally, 1,121 Vedic scholars performed the Saryu River aarti, creating another record and highlighting Uttar Pradesh's rich cultural heritage.

Farmers Benefit from Increased Compensation in Jewar

On December 20, 2024, the compensation for land acquisition in Jewar for the third phase of the Noida International Airport was raised from ₹3,100 to ₹4,300 per square meter. This decision safeguarded farmers' interests and marked another milestone when the first flight successfully landed at the airport on December 9, heralding the project's near completion.

Record-Breaking Plantation Drive

In 2024, Uttar Pradesh planted 36.80 crore trees, achieving a new record. With an increase of 559.19 square kilometers in forest and tree cover, the state secured the second position nationally in this category. Eco-tourism also received a boost with the launch of air connectivity between Lucknow and Palia for visitors to Dudhwa Tiger Reserve.

Zero-Tolerance Against Crime

Adopting a zero-tolerance policy toward crime, the Uttar Pradesh Police intensified operations under "Operation Mafia," eliminating 33 notorious criminals in encounters throughout 2024. The first encounter occurred on January 4 in Sultanpur, leading to the death of Vinod Kumar Upadhyay, a sharp shooter with over 35 criminal cases.

DGP Prashant Kumar on Zero-Tolerance Policy
DGP Prashant Kumar emphasized that any criminal attacking law enforcement would face strong retaliatory action. He stated, "We are working tirelessly to root out organized crime, ensuring effective prosecution of incarcerated criminals to secure their convictions."

Impact of Police Actions

The Uttar Pradesh Police's relentless efforts instilled fear among criminals and boosted public confidence. The state government’s firm stance demonstrated its commitment to controlling crime and maintaining law and order effectively.

Since assuming office in 2017 following the BJP's historic win in Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against crime and mafia elements in the state. Now, after seven years in power, the government has released detailed data showcasing the significant strides made in curbing organized crime and dismantling mafia networks.

Key Statistics on Encounters and Arrests

According to data shared by the Uttar Pradesh Police, a total of 217 criminals have been killed in encounters since Yogi Adityanath took office. Additionally, 7,799 criminals have been injured in various operations conducted by the police. Over the same period, a staggering 19,955 offenders have been arrested.

Under the Gangster Act, 78,977 criminals have been apprehended, and 924 individuals have been detained under the National Security Act (NSA). These figures reflect the state government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating organized crime.

Seizure and Demolition of Illegal Properties

The crackdown on illegal properties owned by mafia and criminal elements has been one of the hallmarks of Yogi's governance. Police reports indicate that under the Gangster Act, properties worth a massive ₹140,90,50,79,181 (approximately ₹140.9 billion) have been seized.

Furthermore, in the past four years, 68 mafia leaders and their gang members have faced action, resulting in the confiscation or demolition of properties valued at over ₹4,067 crore. The use of bulldozers in these operations has become a symbol of the government's determination to enforce law and order.

Action Against Illegal Loudspeakers

To ensure compliance with noise pollution regulations, the government has also taken strict measures against unauthorized loudspeakers at religious and public venues. So far, the police have removed 1,09,437 loudspeakers and reduced the volume of an additional 1,65,515 loudspeakers.

Impact of the Policies

The rigorous actions undertaken by the Uttar Pradesh government have sent a strong message to criminals across the state. With a comprehensive approach that combines legal enforcement, property seizures, and community compliance initiatives, the Yogi Adityanath administration has significantly reduced crime rates.

As 2025 approaches, the Yogi administration's resolve to maintain law and order continues to redefine Uttar Pradesh’s narrative, emphasizing safety, security, and economic stability.

As 2024 draws to a close, Uttar Pradesh stands as a testament to Yogi Adityanath's governance, characterized by progress, cultural preservation, and unwavering law enforcement. The year's achievements pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous 2025.