Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the celebrations of 20 years of Gujarat urban growth story in Gandhinagar. During the occasion, he launched the urban development year 2025, marking 20 years of the urban development year 2005. Addressing the gathering, he said that over the past 2 days during his visit to Vadodara, Dahod, Bhuj, Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, he has been experiencing the fervor of patriotism with the roar of success of Operation Sindoor and flying tricolors.
He added that it was a sight to behold and this feeling was not just in Gujarat, but across every nook and corner of India and in the heart of every Indian. “India had made up its mind to weed out terrorism and did it with utmost conviction”, stated Modi.
Recalling the first terrorist attack on India in 1947, right after the partition of India into three parts, Modi said one part was usurped by Pakistan harboring the terrorists. He recalled Sardar Patel’s vision, emphasizing that the Indian army should not have halted until Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) was reclaimed. However, he stated that Patel’s advice was not followed. Modi stressed that this legacy of terrorism has continued for the last 75 years and the terror attacks in Pahalgam was another horrific form of it. He asserted that despite playing diplomatic games, Pakistan repeatedly faced India’s military strength in war. He noted that on three occasions, India’s armed forces decisively defeated Pakistan, making it clear that Pakistan could not triumph in direct military conflict. Acknowledging Pakistan’s realization of its limitations, Modi stated that the neighboring country resorted to proxy warfare. He explained that trained militants were infiltrated into India through systematic military training, aiming to target innocent and unarmed civilians, including those undertaking peaceful pilgrimages.
Development projects worth £5.34bn opened in Bhuj
Earlier, Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth over £5.34bn in Bhuj. Addressing the gathering, he greeted the people of Kutch and also paid respects to revolutionaries and martyrs, particularly the great freedom fighter Shri Shyamji Krishna Varma. The Prime Minister conveyed his regards to the sons and daughters of Kutch, acknowledging their resilience and contributions.
Modi also paid homage to Ashapura Mata, acknowledging her divine presence on the sacred land of Kutch. He expressed gratitude for her continuous blessings upon the region and extended his respects to the people.
Reflecting on his deep connection with Kutch, Modi recalled his frequent visits across the district and emphasized how the land had shaped his life’s direction. He remarked that while living conditions have improved significantly, the past presented considerable challenges. He also recalled how fortunate he was when the waters of River Narmada reached the Kutch region. Even before assuming the role of chief minister, he often visited Kutch, engaging in various programmes at the district office. Modi also highlighted the unwavering determination of the farmers in Kutch, noting that their spirit has always been remarkable. He stated that his years of experience in the region greatly contributed to his efforts toward its development.
