Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for a series of development projects valued at ₹1,220 crore near the iconic Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. This significant event took place during his two-day visit to the state, which is dedicated to celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
During his visit on Thursday, the Prime Minister laid the groundwork for ten new projects. These include the ambitious Museum of Royal Kingdoms of India, slated to cost ₹367.25 crore, a visitor center at ₹140.45 crore, the Veer Balak Udyan for ₹90.46 crore, an extension for the travelator at ₹27.43 crore, and a new sports complex valued at ₹23.60 crore.
The Museum of Royal Kingdoms of India is envisioned as a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s pivotal role in integrating over 560 princely states into a unified India. It aims to showcase the history, governance, and cultural richness of these former states through original artifacts, royal symbols, maps, and the crucial accession treaties signed by their rulers. The museum will feature digital galleries, audio-visual displays, and architectural recreations, celebrating India’s diverse princely heritage.
In addition to laying foundation stones, Prime Minister Modi also launched several recently completed projects. These include the GSEC and SSNNL Quarters, built at a cost of ₹56.33 crore, the Birsa Munda Bhavan costing ₹303 crore, Phase-1 of the Hospitality District valued at ₹54.65 crore, and a fleet of 25 e-buses costing ₹30 crore.
The Prime Minister’s itinerary also includes offering floral tributes at the Statue of Unity and presiding over the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas parade on Friday. The parade, themed “Unity in Diversity,” will showcase contingents from various central armed police forces and state police forces. Additionally, he will engage with Officer Trainees from the 100th Common Foundation Course during the culmination of the Aarambh 7.0 program.
Earlier, Prime Minister Modi had the opportunity to meet with the family of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Kevadia, expressing his delight in interacting with them and reflecting on Sardar Patel’s immense contributions to the nation.