Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari today said that ‘Seva Bhava’ is the guiding spirit of public service and development, with Government initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of citizens and ensuring that the benefits of development reach the last mile.

Addressing the ‘Seva Sankalp Abhiyan – Aashirwad Ka Diya’ virtually, Shri Gadkari said that the occasion of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s birthday provides an opportunity to renew the collective resolve towards serving the people and contributing to the nation’s development.

The Minister said that infrastructure development is ultimately about serving citizens and creating better opportunities for them. Roads and highways are not merely physical assets; they connect people with schools, hospitals, markets, workplaces and other essential services. Improved connectivity saves time, facilitates movement of agricultural produce, supports tourism and generates new avenues of employment and economic activity.

Highlighting initiatives such as PM GatiShakti, Shri Gadkari said that integrated infrastructure planning and modern highway development are transforming connectivity across the country. Projects in difficult and hilly areas, including Zojila Tunnel and other all-weather connectivity initiatives, are helping connect remote communities with essential services and opportunities.

He said that the spirit of Seva extends across sectors, with initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat reflecting the Government’s focus on improving access to essential services and enhancing citizens’ well-being.

Shri Gadkari emphasised that development must be time-bound, result-oriented, transparent and quality-driven. He stressed the adoption of world-class technology, reduction of import dependence, efficient use of resources and strict accountability for substandard work and malpractices.

The Minister also highlighted the Government’s efforts towards safe, affordable and sustainable mobility, including electric vehicles, alternative fuels, biofuels and hydrogen-based technologies, along with strengthening public transport.

He said that the real measure of development is the positive difference it makes in the everyday lives of citizens—the time saved, services made accessible, opportunities created and communities connected.

Shri Gadkari said that the ‘Aashirwad Ka Diya’ initiative symbolises the spirit of Seva Sankalp—a collective commitment to serve the people with dedication, integrity and a citizen-first approach.

He conveyed his greetings and good wishes to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on his birthday and reaffirmed the commitment to continue the journey of citizen-centric development, quality infrastructure and responsive public service. He expressed confidence that, under the visionary and guiding leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India will continue to advance towards becoming a Vishwaguru and realise the vision of a strong, prosperous and Viksit Bharat.

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