Gandhinagar, May 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a letter to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Gujarat’s 66th Foundation Day, emphasized that the state has demonstrated a shift from anti-incumbency sentiment to pro-incumbency support. He noted that governments focused on development have consistently received public backing in Gujarat.
In his message, the Prime Minister extended his wishes to the people of Gujarat and highlighted the significance of this year’s celebration, coinciding with recent local body elections.
He stated, “The electoral results in Gujarat clearly indicate that the work your government has done for the state’s development has been approved by the people.”
Referring to political trends, Modi remarked, “It is often said that anti-incumbency against governments is rising, but Gujarat has shown the nation that this trend has now transformed into pro-incumbency.”
He pointed out that since 1995, his party has enjoyed continuous public support, attributing this to their consistent efforts to meet the expectations of the populace. This support has fostered political stability, crucial for development.
The Prime Minister also paid tribute to those who contributed to the formation of Gujarat and the Mahagujarat movement. He stated, “Their efforts continue to inspire us, and this day serves as an opportunity to renew our commitments in their memory.”
Modi described Gujarat as a land of diversity, where tradition and modernity coexist alongside a strong entrepreneurial spirit. He noted that Gujarat boasts the highest manufacturing capacity in the country.
He expressed pride that Gujarat’s name resonates across every corner of India. Citing the Somnath Temple as an example of Gujarat’s resilience, he mentioned that despite repeated destruction, the temple has been rebuilt, standing today as a symbol of faith and culture.
The Prime Minister announced plans to visit Gujarat for the 75th anniversary of the temple’s consecration. He acknowledged that Gujarat has faced challenges, particularly during the late 1990s and early 2000s when political instability and social tensions hindered development.
He remarked, “At that time, people questioned how the state would rise again, but the people of Gujarat faced these challenges with courage and proved the skeptics wrong.”
Today, Gujarat plays a vital role in India’s economic growth and has gained recognition for innovation across various sectors, including agriculture.
Discussing development and infrastructure, Modi highlighted that renewable and solar energy have become global talking points, and Gujarat adopted a visionary approach in these areas early on.
He referenced significant decisions made post-2014 regarding water and irrigation projects, noting the completion of long-stalled initiatives and the Sardar Sarovar Dam reaching its full height in 2019. Recent efforts to channel Narmada water to Kutch and Saurashtra have yielded excellent results.
The Prime Minister mentioned that the central government has supported several key projects in Gujarat, including the Vande Bharat train, bullet train project, Ahmedabad Metro, Rajkot Airport, and the Taranga Hill-Ambaji-Abu Road railway line, enhancing both trade and connectivity.
In the manufacturing sector, he stated that Gujarat significantly contributes to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, citing the C-295 aircraft manufacturing facility in Vadodara and the rail coach production project in Dahod as examples.
He noted that Gujarat has the longest coastline in India and is enhancing infrastructure to strengthen port-based development. Plans are underway to develop Bhavnagar as a container terminal, and fishermen are being empowered through credit cards and technical support.
Modi mentioned his recent visits to inaugurate semiconductor plants in the region. He highlighted Surat as a major polishing hub for diamonds and jewelry, while Jamnagar’s Global Center for Traditional Medicine will provide Gujarat with a new identity in wellness and traditional medicine.
Discussing good governance and public relations, he stated that digitization has enhanced government capabilities and empowered millions, especially small traders. He expressed that the establishment of a cooperative ministry will further strengthen the cooperative sector.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to promoting Gujarat’s dairy products globally and preserving the state’s historical heritage, mentioning projects like the museum in Vadnagar and the National Maritime Heritage Complex.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed gratitude for the Prime Minister’s message, stating, “I sincerely thank you for your inspiring message on Gujarat’s Foundation Day.” He acknowledged Modi’s deep connection with Gujarat and the vision of a ‘Developed India’ as a continuous source of direction and energy for the state.
Patel concluded, “Under your guidance, Gujarat has achieved remarkable accomplishments in infrastructure, industry, agriculture, education, and welfare, establishing itself as a model state in the country.”
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