Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) with significant fanfare at the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat, where he inaugurated and laid foundation stones for development projects totaling a massive ₹1,219 crore.
Commemorating Sardar Patel's Legacy
The Prime Minister paid heartfelt tributes to India's first Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, at the iconic 182-meter tall statue dedicated to the "Iron Man of India." The ceremony coincided with Sardar Patel's birth anniversary, which is celebrated nationwide as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.
Major Infrastructure Boost for Gujarat
The newly inaugurated projects represent a substantial investment in Gujarat's infrastructure development. Among the key initiatives are:
- Multiple irrigation projects benefiting agricultural communities
- Enhanced tourism infrastructure around the Statue of Unity complex
- Road and connectivity improvements in the Kevadia region
- Public utility projects aimed at boosting local economy
Strengthening National Unity
In his address, PM Modi emphasized how the Statue of Unity has evolved beyond being merely a memorial into a powerful symbol of national integration and development. He highlighted how the monument has put Kevadia and the surrounding tribal areas on the global tourism map while generating substantial employment opportunities for local communities.
"The projects inaugurated today will not only accelerate regional development but also serve as a fitting tribute to Sardar Patel's vision of a strong, united India," the Prime Minister stated during his speech.
Transforming Tribal Regions
The development initiatives are particularly significant for the tribal communities in the region, promising improved access to amenities, better connectivity, and enhanced livelihood opportunities. The Statue of Unity complex has already emerged as a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from across the country and beyond.
The event underscores the government's continued focus on both commemorating national icons and driving tangible development outcomes through strategic infrastructure investments.
