Governor of Gujarat, Shri Acharya Devvrat ji; the popular Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel; Mulubhai Bera, Narhari Amin, C.R. Patil, Kiritbhai Solanki, Mayor Smt. Pratibha Jain ji, and Bhai Kartikeya ji, other dignitaries, ladies and gentlemen!
The Sabarmati Ashram of Pujya Bapu has consistently radiated an unparalleled energy, serving as a vibrant hub. Like many others, whenever we have the privilege to visit, we keenly feel Bapu's enduring inspiration. The values of truth, non-violence, devotion to the nation, and the spirit of serving the underprivileged, cherished by Bapu, are still upheld by the Sabarmati Ashram. It is indeed auspicious that today I have laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment and expansion of the Sabarmati Ashram. Additionally, the Kochrab Ashram, where Bapu initially resided upon his return from South Africa, has also been renovated, and I am delighted to announce its inauguration today. It was in the Kochrab Ashram where Gandhiji first engaged in spinning the charkha and learned carpentry work. Following his two-year stay there, Gandhiji moved to the Sabarmati Ashram. With its reconstruction, the memories of Gandhiji's early days will be better preserved at the Kochrab Ashram. I pay my respects to the revered Bapu. I also congratulate all the countrymen for the development of these significant and inspiring places.
Friends,
Today, March 12, holds significant historical importance. On this day, Bapu altered the course of the freedom movement with the iconic Dandi March, etching it into the annals of history. Even in independent Bharat, this date bears witness to another historic occasion, marking the dawn of a new era. On March 12, 2022, the nation commenced the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' from the Sabarmati Ashram. The Dandi March played a pivotal role in shaping the sacred landscape of independent Bharat, providing a backdrop for its inception and progression. The commencement of Amrit Mahotsav heralded Bharat's entry into the 'Amrit Kaal'. It evoked a similar sense of public participation across the country as was witnessed before independence. Every Indian would take pride in the widespread celebration of the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' and its reflection of Gandhi's ideals. During this celebration of 'Azadi Ka Amrit Kaal', over 3 crore people pledged allegiance to the Panch Pran. More than 2 lakh Amrit Vatikas were established nationwide, with efforts made for their holistic development through the planting of over 2 crore trees and plants. Additionally, significant strides were taken in water conservation, with the construction of over 70,000 Amrit Sarovars. The 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign emerged as a powerful expression of patriotism nationwide. Through the 'Meri Maati, Mera Desh' initiative, crores of countrymen paid homage to the country's martyrs. Over 2 lakh commemorative stone plaques were installed during the Amrit Mahotsav. Consequently, the Sabarmati Ashram has become not only a symbol of the freedom struggle but also a testament to building a developed Bharat.
Friends,
A nation that neglects its heritage jeopardizes its future. The Sabarmati Ashram, a historical heritage associated with Bapu, holds significance not only for Bharat but for all humanity. However, post-independence, this heritage has not received the attention it deserves. Once spanning 120 acres, the ashram now occupies merely 5 acres due to various reasons. What was once home to 63 small dwellings now consists of only 36 houses, with access granted to tourists to visit only 3 of these houses. It is incumbent upon all 140 crore Indians to preserve the Sabarmati Ashram, an institution that has shaped history, has played a massive role in the nation's freedom struggle and continues to attract visitors from around the globe.
And friends,
The families residing here have significantly contributed to the expansion and development of the Sabarmati Ashram as it stands today. It is through their cooperation that 55 acres of the ashram's land have been reclaimed. I extend my sincere appreciation and gratitude to those families who have played a positive role in this endeavour. Our current objective is to preserve all the old buildings of the Ashram in their original condition. I make efforts to identify houses that require reconstruction from the ground up, ensuring that we uphold traditional construction styles. Even if the need does not arise immediately, I am committed to undertaking whatever is necessary. This reconstruction effort will undoubtedly captivate both domestic and international audiences in the future.
Friends,
The governments that existed after independence lacked the foresight and political will to preserve our country's heritage. There was a tendency to view Bharat through a foreign lens, coupled with the compulsion for appeasement, which resulted in the neglect and destruction of our rich heritage. Encroachments, uncleanliness, and disorder plagued our heritage sites. As the MP from Kashi, I can provide the example of Kashi Vishwanath Dham. The condition of the area 10 years ago is well-known to the people. However, with government's determination and public cooperation, 12 acres of land were secured for the reconstruction of Kashi Vishwanath Dham. Today, various facilities such as museums, food courts, guest houses, Mumukshu Bhawans, Mandir Chowk, Emporiums, Passenger Facilitation Centres etc. have been developed on this land, attracting over 12 crore devotees in just two years. Similarly, 200 acres of land were freed for the expansion of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya, which was previously densely built upon. Today, facilities such as Ram Path, Bhakti Path, and Janmabhoomi Path are being developed here. In Ayodhya, more than one crore devotees have had darshan of Lord Shri Ram in the last 50 days alone. I recently inaugurated numerous development projects in Dwarka ji as well.
By the way friends,
Indeed, Gujarat has set an exemplary precedent for heritage preservation in the country. The renovation of the Somnath temple under the leadership of Sardar Saheb stands as a historic milestone. Gujarat is home to several such heritage sites, with Ahmedabad being recognized as a World Heritage City. Rani ki Vav, Champaner, and Dholavira are also designated as World Heritage sites. The ancient port city of Lothal is a hot topic of discussion worldwide. Efforts have been made to develop Girnar, Pavagadh, Modhera, and Ambaji, among other significant heritage sites.
Friends,
We have initiated a development campaign for sites associated with the heritage of the freedom struggle and our national inspiration. You may have noticed the transformation of Rajpath in Delhi into a Kartavya Path. We erected the statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on Kartavya path. Additionally, we have enhanced sites related to the freedom struggle and Netaji in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, providing them with due recognition. Places linked to Baba Saheb Ambedkar have also been developed as Panch Teerth. The Statue of Unity of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Ekta Nagar has become a global attraction, with thousands paying homage to Sardar Patel. Dandi, too, has undergone significant changes, attracting thousands of visitors. The ongoing development and expansion of the Sabarmati Ashram mark another significant step in this direction.
Friends,
The forthcoming generations and visitors to this ashram will gain insight into how the saint of Sabarmati, through the power of the charkha, stirred the hearts and minds of the nation. He awakened the consciousness of the people and propelled multiple streams of the freedom movement forward. In a country grappling with despair from centuries of colonial rule and slavery, Bapu infused new hope and faith by igniting a mass movement. Even today, his vision offers a clear direction for our nation's promising future. Bapu envisioned 'Gram Swaraj' (village self-governance) and a self-reliant Bharat. Nowadays, the concept of "Vocal for Local" is frequently discussed. This term is employed to convey a contemporary perspective and application. Regardless of the specific wording used, fundamentally, it encapsulates Gandhiji's sentiment of swadeshi as well as 'self-reliant Bharat' and nothing more. Today, Acharya ji informed me about his mission towards organic farming. He mentioned that in Gujarat alone, there are 9 lakh farmer families, a significant number indeed. Out of these, 9 lakh families have transitioned to organic farming, fulfilling Gandhiji's vision of chemical-free agriculture. He also shared that this shift has resulted in a reduction of 3 lakh metric tonnes of urea usage in Gujarat. This indicates a concerted effort towards preserving Mother Earth. If this isn't aligned with the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, then what else is? Under Acharya's guidance, Gujarat Vidyapeeth has experienced rejuvenation. These great personalities have bestowed upon us a rich legacy. It is incumbent upon us to adapt it to modern times. My contribution to this endeavour is exemplified by the resurgence of Khadi. The influence and reach of Khadi have grown substantially. It is remarkable to witness Khadi expanding to such an extent—previously confined mostly to use by politicians, we have successfully broadened its appeal. This reflects our commitment to honouring Gandhi's legacy. Our government, inspired by Gandhiji's ideals, prioritizes the welfare of rural communities and spearheads the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. Today, villages are thriving, manifesting Bapu's vision of Gram Swaraj. Women are reclaiming their pivotal role in rural economies through self-help groups. I'm delighted to note that over 1 crore sisters engaged in self-help groups in villages have become Lakhpati Didis, and it is my aspiration to elevate 3 crore sisters to this status in our third term. Today, these women from village self-help groups have transitioned into drone pilots, embracing modern agricultural practices. These endeavours exemplify a robust Bharat and underscore an all-inclusive Bharat. Through our efforts, the impoverished have gained self-assurance to combat poverty. Over the past decade, 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty due to our government's policies. I firmly believe that wherever the soul of Pujya Bapu resides, it is showering us with blessings. Today, as Bharat achieves unprecedented milestones in the 'Azadi Ka Amit Kaal', advancing in land, space, and developmental aspirations, the sanctity of Mahatma Gandhi's abode is inspiring us all. Sabarmati Ashram, Kochrab Ashram, and Gujarat Vidyapeeth serve as beacons, connecting the modern era with our heritage. They strengthen our resolve and inspire the vision of a developed Bharat. I firmly believe that once the vision of Sabarmati Ashram materializes before me, it will attract thousands of visitors who will seek to understand its history and learn about Bapu. Therefore, I urge the Gujarat government and the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation to organize a guide competition, encouraging numerous individuals to step forward and serve as guides. This heritage city fosters healthy competition among children as to who can be the best guide. We must identify those individuals who can best serve as guides at Sabarmati Ashram. Once there is competition among children, it will proliferate in every school, ensuring that every child is acquainted with the establishment and significance of Sabarmati Ashram. Secondly, it is proposed that for 365 days a year, at least 1000 children from various schools in Ahmedabad should visit Sabarmati Ashram and spend a minimum of one hour there. Those children who serve as guides in their schools will narrate anecdotes about Gandhiji's activities at the ashram, fostering a deeper connection to history. This initiative requires no additional budget or effort; only a fresh perspective is needed. I am confident that Bapu's ideals and the inspiring places associated with him will continue to guide us in our nation-building journey and provide us with renewed strength.
To my fellow countrymen, today I humbly dedicate this new project. This endeavour holds a special place in my heart, as it has been a longstanding aspiration since my tenure as Chief Minister. I dedicated considerable time and effort to this cause, facing various challenges and even legal battles as people were posing different problems. The central government also used to put obstacles in it at that time. Despite obstacles, through divine blessings and the unwavering support of the public, we have now realized this dream, overcoming every problem. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of you. My sole request to the state government is to commence and expedite this project without delay, as its completion hinges on the planting of trees and vegetation. Creating a lush environment akin to a jungle will require time for growth, but its impact will be palpable to the public. I firmly believe that once again, in the third term... I have nothing further to add.
Thanks a lot.
