Dehradun, October 5: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 'Umiya Dham Ashram' at Uttarakhand's Haridwar today. Addressing the gathering through a video conference, he said, "The idea of a 'yatra' existed as an integral part of our culture. Through a yatra, we get acquainted with various parts of the country we may never have seen."
PM Modi said that the work being done by devotees of Ma Umiya has touched the lives of several people. They have spread awareness on gender equality. He specially thanked the women of Mehsana district, who have furthered the message of "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao."
The Prime Minister appealed to all devotees of Ma Umiya, to become Swachhagrahis, and add strength to the Swachh Bharat Mission. He also urged them to be a part of plantation drive for afforestation.
Expressing concern over drug addiction among the youth, the Prime Minister appealed to the devotees for creating an environment which keeps the young generation away from drugs.