Published By : Admin |
August 23, 2012 | 19:10 IST
Share
True Essence of Our Democracy
Dear Friends,
Some extremely emotional experiences have inspired me to share a few words today.
This year, Gujarat Government is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the institution of Panchayati Raj. It would have been wonderful if the Government of India had also decided to commemorate this historic occasion. As a part of the celebrations, various programmes will be held across Gujarat with an aim to comprehensively strengthen the idea of Gram Swaraj. But, there is one programme that has touched my heart- that is felicitating all the elected representatives who have served in the various Panchayat bodies since the creation of Gujarat in 1960.
In every Taluka Panchayat that includes 5-6 villages, we are organizing programmes where at the hands of my senior Cabinet colleagues we honour these elected representatives who toiled at the grass root level.
To honour these powerhouses of experience and wisdom after many years has been a matter of great joy for me and even the atmosphere among the representatives being felicitated remains full of emotion! In the last 50 years, the number of elected functionaries has crossed one lakh and it is our privilege that we have got a chance to remember their invaluable contribution in the annals of history.
Friends, since it was the Congress that dominated the political landscape for a very long time, it is natural that a substantial number of individuals who are being felicitated have been fundamentally associated with the Congress and had been getting elected on its symbol. But, to transcend the realm of politics and honour people who have left a mark of public service is extremely special.
This is the true beauty of democracy and that is why we always say… ‘Sauno Saath, Sauno Vikas’ (All together, growth for all).
Yours,
Narendra Modi
Also See :
Video:An elder who has been felicitated shares his kind words on the initiative of the Gujarat Government.
Come, immerse yourself in a unique mix of culture, history and breathtaking natural beauty!
On the westernmost edge of India lies Kutch, a mesmerising land with a vibrant heritage. Kutch is home to the iconic White Rann, a vast salt desert that gleams under the moonlight, offering an otherworldly experience. It is equally celebrated for its thriving arts and crafts.
And, most importantly, it is home to the most hospitable people, proud of their roots and eager to engage with the world.
Each year, the warm-hearted people of Kutch open their doors for the iconic Rann Utsav—a four-month-long vibrant celebration of the region’s uniqueness, breathtaking beauty and enduring spirit.
Through this post, I am extending my personal invitation to all of you, dynamic, hard-working professionals, and your families to visit Kutch and enjoy the Rann Utsav. This year’s Rann Utsav, which commenced on 1st December 2024, will go on till 28th February 2025, wherein the tent city at Rann Utsav will be open till March 2025.
I assure you all that Rann Utsav will be a lifetime experience.
The Tent City ensures a comfortable stay in the stunning backdrop of the White Rann. For those who want to relax, this is just the place to be.
And, for those who want to discover new facets of history and culture, there is much to do as well. In addition to the Rann Utsav activities, you can:
Connect with our ancient past with a visit to Dholavira, a UNESCO World Heritage site (linked to the Indus Valley Civilisation).
Connect with nature by visiting the Vijay Vilas Palace, Kala Dungar. The ‘Road to Heaven’, surrounded by white salt pans, is the most scenic road in India. It is about 30 kilometres long and connects Khavda to Dholavira.
Connect with our glorious culture by visiting Lakhpat Fort.
Connect with our spiritual roots by praying at the Mata No Madh Ashapura Temple.
Connect with our freedom struggle by paying tributes at the Shyamji Krishna Varma Memorial, Kranti Teerth.
And, most importantly, you can delve into the special world of Kutchi handicrafts, each product unique and indicative of the talents of the people of Kutch.
Some time ago, I had the opportunity to inaugurate Smriti Van, a memorial in remembrance of those whom we lost during the 26th of January 2001 earthquake. It is officially the world's most beautiful museum, winning the Prix Versailles 2024 World Title – Interiors at UNESCO! It is also India's only museum that has achieved this remarkable feat. It remains a reminder of how the human spirit can adapt, thrive, and rise even in the most challenging environments.
Then and now, a picture in contrast:
About twenty years ago, if you were to be invited to Kutch, you would think someone was joking with you. After all, despite being among the largest districts of India, Kutch was largely ignored and left to its fate. Kutch borders Registan (desert) on one side and Pakistan on the other.
Kutch witnessed a super cyclone in 1999 and a massive earthquake in 2001. The recurring problem of drought remained. Everybody had written Kutch’s obituary.
But they underestimated the determination of the people of Kutch.
The people of Kutch showed what they were made of, and at the start of the 21st century, they began a turnaround that is unparalleled in history.
Together, we worked on the all-round development of Kutch. We focussed on creating infrastructure that was disaster resilient, and at the same time, we focussed on building livelihoods that ensured the youth of Kutch did not have to leave their homes in search of work.
By the end of the first decade of the 21st century, the land known for perpetual droughts became known for agriculture. Fruits from Kutch, including mangoes, made their way to foreign markets. The farmers of Kutch mastered drip irrigation and other techniques that conserved every drop of water yet ensured maximum productivity.
The Gujarat Government’s thrust on industrial growth ensured investment in the district. We also leveraged Kutch’s coast to reignite the region’s importance as a maritime trade hub.
In 2005, Rann Utsav was born to tap into the previously unseen tourism potential of Kutch. It has grown into a vibrant tourism centre now. Rann Utsav has also received several domestic and international awards.
Dhordo, a village where every year Rann Utsav is celebrated, was named the 2023 Best Tourism Village by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The village was recognized for its cultural preservation, sustainable tourism, and rural development.
Therefore, I do hope to see you in Kutch very soon! Do share your experiences on social media as well, to inspire others to visit Kutch.
I also take this opportunity to wish you a happy 2025 and hope that the coming year brings with it success, prosperity and good health for you and your families!
