PM Modi Unveils Rs 400 Crore Projects, Marks End of Armed Naxalism
PM Modi unveils projects worth Rs 400 crore and marks the end of armed Naxalism during Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations at Ekta Nagar.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to lead the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, marking the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The event is not only a tribute to the 'Iron Man of India' but also a historic milestone as the government highlights the end of armed Naxalism in 2026.
Development Boost for Ekta Nagar
As part of the festivities, the Prime Minister will inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several development projects valued at over Rs 400 crore. His second day in Gujarat begins with a solemn offering of floral tributes at the Statue of Unity, the world's tallest statue standing at 182 metres.
Following the ceremonies, PM Modi will visit the Vaman Vriksha Vatika and the Rain Forest in Ekta Nagar before heading to the main event of the evening.
A Victory Over Violence: Celebrating the End of Naxalism
The centerpiece of this year's Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is the celebration of India's achievement in eliminating armed Naxalism. This victory will be showcased through a massive parade and a series of poignant performances:
- The Grand Parade: Around 10,000 personnel from the police and paramilitary forces, along with 4,700 artists, will participate. State Police forces and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) that led the fight against Naxalism will march past the Prime Minister.
- Digital Storytelling: As contingents pass, LED screens will broadcast short films detailing the significant achievements and sacrifices of the security forces.
- Emotional Narratives: The National School of Drama (NSD) will lead a performance featuring 2,000 artists from 126 districts previously affected by Naxalism. These performances will depict the hardships and threats faced by citizens during the height of the insurgency.
In a touching gesture, 5,000 residents from these 126 affected districts have been invited to the event to share their personal experiences and witness the transformation of their regions.
Cultural Splendor and National Unity
The celebrations are deeply rooted in the theme of 'Vande Mataram', commemorating the 150th year of the national song. The event aims to showcase the spirit of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat' through several unique presentations:
Diverse Tableaux and Performances
For the first time at Ekta Nagar, a 'people's tableau' will be featured among 15 total tableaux. Additionally, a massive cultural presentation involving 5,000 artists will highlight the diversity of India. This performance will specifically feature people from various states who have settled in Gujarat over generations, blending 50 different cultural elements into one cohesive show.
Social Initiatives and Public Participation
Beyond the parades and music, the celebrations include a nationwide bike rally aimed at raising awareness and fighting drug abuse. Citizens, students, and families from every corner of the country have been invited to visit Ekta Nagar and explore the surroundings of the monument dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's role in national integration.
The evening will conclude with a formal address by Prime Minister Modi, following the display of musical bands and cultural troupes.