Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the foundation stone laying ceremony of Sardardham Phase-II, Kanya Chhatralaya in Ahmedabad, Gujarat via a video message today. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister remarked that the name of Sardardham is as sacred as its work, highlighting the inauguration of a hostel dedicated to the service and education of daughters. He further stated that the girls who will reside in this hostel will carry aspirations and dreams, and will be provided with numerous opportunities to fulfill them. Shri Modi emphasized that once these daughters become self-reliant and capable, they will naturally play a vital role in nation-building, and their families will also become empowered. Extending his best wishes, the Prime Minister conveyed his heartfelt greetings to all the daughters who will have the opportunity to stay in this hostel, and also to their family members for a bright future.

Expressing gratitude for being given the opportunity to lay the foundation stone of Girls Hostel Phase 2, Shri Modi highlighted that through the dedicated efforts of society, a grand facility with excellent arrangements is now available for 3,000 daughters. He noted that hostel construction for 2,000 students is also underway in Vadodara and nearing completion. The Prime Minister remarked that similar centres for education, learning, and training are being developed in Surat, Rajkot, and Mehsana. He extended congratulations to all contributors involved in these initiatives, stating that the nation progresses through the strength of society and paid tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Recalling his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, the Prime Minister stated that he always believed Gujarat’s development was essential for India’s progress. He noted that today, the lessons learned from Gujarat are contributing to national development. He reflected on the situation 25–30 years ago, when Gujarat faced concerning indicators and had to channel its strength into overcoming social challenges. Shri Modi shared that upon becoming Chief Minister, he was struck by the fact that daughters lagged significantly in education and many families did not send their daughters to school, and those who enrolled often dropped out early. He credited public support 25 years ago for transforming this situation. The Prime Minister reminded the audience of the “Kanya Shiksha Rath Yatra,” recalling the scorching temperatures of 40–42°C in mid-June, when they visited villages and homes, personally escorting daughters to school. He emphasized the scale of the school enrollment due to the yatra and expressed pride in the substantial benefits these efforts yielded. As a result, the Prime Minister stated, school infrastructure was developed, modern facilities were introduced, systems were strengthened, and teachers were recruited. Society actively participated and fulfilled its responsibilities. He noted that many of the children enrolled during that time have now become doctors and engineers, dropout rates have declined, and a hunger for learning has spread across Gujarat.

Addressing another major concern, Shri Modi condemned the sin of female foeticide, calling it a grave stigma. He recalled the societal anxiety around the issue and the support he received to launch a movement against it. He mentioned the journey from Surat to Umiya Mata, which helped strengthen the sentiment of gender equality. The Prime Minister emphasized that Gujarat, a land that worships feminine power—be it Umiya Mata, Khodiyar Mata, Kali Mata, Amba Mata, or Bahuchar Mata—must not bear the stain of female foeticide. He stated that once this sentiment awakened and received widespread support, Gujarat began to successfully narrow the gap in the male-female child ratio.

“When efforts are undertaken with noble intentions and purity for the welfare of society, divine support follows—and society itself becomes a divine force”, stated Shri Modi, affirming that such efforts yield results, and today a new awakening has emerged within society. He highlighted that people are now proactively coming forward to educate daughters, enhance their dignity, and create facilities for them, including the construction of grand hostels. The Prime Minister remarked that the seeds sown in Gujarat have now grown into a nationwide movement—“Beti-Betiyon, Beti Padhao”—which has become a public campaign. He emphasized that historic work is being carried out across the country for women’s safety and empowerment. 

Referring to Operation Sindoor, the Prime Minister noted that the voices and capabilities of daughters are being heard and recognized. He cited the example of “Lakhpati Didis” in villages, stating that out of the 3 crore target, 2 crore have already been achieved. He further added that initiatives like “Drone Didi” have transformed societal perspectives towards women in villages. Shri Modi also mentioned schemes such as “Bank Sakhi” and “Bima Sakhi,” highlighting that these programs are actively driving rural economic growth through the efforts of India’s maternal power.

Emphasising that the foremost objective of education is to nurture individuals who contribute positively to society and to enhance their capabilities, the Prime Minister stated that in today’s fast-paced environment, this goal has become even more relevant. He called for a competitive spirit in skills and talent, noting that the true strength of society lies in its skill base. Shri Modi highlighted the global demand for India’s skilled manpower and criticized the outdated education system implemented by previous governments for decades. He stated that his government has brought significant reforms, moving away from obsolete methods and transforming the educational landscape.

Underscoring that the new National Education Policy places its strongest emphasis on skill development, the Prime Minister said that under the Skill India Mission, the government is working to prepare millions of youth as skilled manpower across various fields. He noted that the world is facing a major challenge of aging populations and requires young talent—an area where India has the capacity to lead. Shri Modi remarked that when youth are skilled, it opens up vast employment opportunities, builds self-confidence, and fosters self-reliance. He reiterated the government’s strong focus on creating maximum employment opportunities for youth.

Recalling that 11 years ago, India had only a handful of startups, whereas today the number is approaching 200,000, Shri Modi noted that startups are now emerging even in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. He highlighted the launch of the Mudra Yojana, which enabled youth to receive bank loans without guarantees. As a result, ₹33 lakh crore has been disbursed to youth for self-employment. He stated that this initiative has empowered lakhs of youth to become self-reliant and also provide employment to others. Referring to his Independence Day address, the Prime Minister mentioned the announcement and immediate implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana—a ₹1 lakh crore scheme. Under this initiative, if someone is hired in the private sector, the government provides ₹15,000 towards their initial salary.

“Infrastructure development across the country is progressing at a record pace”, affirmed the Prime Minister, stating that under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, large-scale installation of solar systems is being actively carried out. He remarked that India is witnessing continuous growth in the drone and defence industries. The Prime Minister emphasized that the government’s foremost focus is on mission-driven manufacturing. He noted that all these initiatives are also generating new employment opportunities in Gujarat.

“The world today holds India’s labour and talent in high regard and recognizes its value. As a result, numerous opportunities are emerging across various countries”, stated Shri Modi. He highlighted that Indian youth are leaving a remarkable impression globally in sectors such as healthcare, education, and space—astonishing the world with their capabilities and achievements.

Reiterating his strong emphasis on self-reliance and indigenous production, as highlighted in his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, the Prime Minister urged that India must become self-sufficient and called upon society to embrace swadeshi products with conviction.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister acknowledged the contributions of the people, stating that while he may have earned merit by assigning tasks in the past, it is they who have fulfilled those tasks and delivered results. He affirmed that in his entire public life so far, there has never been an instance where his expectations were not met, and this trust continues to fuel his desire to assign new responsibilities.

Shri Modi remarked that in today’s unstable global environment, the best path forward for India is to become self-reliant. He clarified that self-reliance means prioritizing indigenous goods and increasing enthusiasm for the Make in India initiative. “Swadeshi movement is not a century-old relic but a campaign that strengthens the future, and its leadership must come from society—especially the youth”, emphasised the Prime Minister. He called upon families to resolve that no foreign item should enter their homes. He cited examples where people cancelled weddings abroad and chose to celebrate in India after hearing his appeal for Made in India. He noted that such reflections naturally awaken patriotic sentiments.

“Success in Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat belongs to all and is a collective strength. It is the foundation of future generations”, exclaimed Shri Modi. He urged that once people begin choosing Indian products, quality will automatically improve due to market competition, better packaging, and affordability. He stressed that allowing Indian currency to flow out of the country is not appropriate.

Expressing confidence, the Prime Minister said that the small task he has entrusted will be fulfilled by society through awareness and will give new strength to the nation. He appealed to traders as well, noting that society today is not just agrarian but also entrepreneurial. He suggested that traders display boards stating “Only Swadeshi Products Sold Here,” encouraging customers to buy Indian goods and committing themselves to selling only swadeshi items. Shri Modi affirmed that this, too, is an act of patriotism—not just Operation Sindoor, but embracing swadeshi is also a form of national service. Conveying this sentiment to the people, the Prime Minister requested their promise and contribution. Concluding his address, the Prime Minister expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to be among the people, extended his best wishes to all, and offered heartfelt blessings to the daughters.

Union Minister Shri Amit Shah, Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel were present among other dignitaries at the event.

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MJPS/SR