Prime minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth over Rs 24,000 crore in Dahod, Gujarat on Monday. Addressing the gathering, he remarked that May 26 holds special significance as it marks the day he first took the oath as Prime Minister in 2014. He acknowledged the unwavering support and blessings of the people of Gujarat, who entrusted him with the responsibility of leading the nation.

“Today, the nation has emerged from an era of despair and darkness into a new age of confidence and optimism. 140 crore Indians are united in building a Viksit Bharat,” he said.

He remarked that India is advancing rapidly in the global manufacturing sector, noting that both domestic production and exports are increasing consistently. India is now exporting a wide range of products, including smartphones, automobiles, toys, defense equipment, and medicines. He further stated that India is not only manufacturing rail and metro technology but also exporting it globally.

Citing Dahod as a prime example of this progress, where major projects worth thousands of crores were inaugurated and launched, Modi highlighted the Dahod Electric Locomotive Factory as a significant achievement. He recalled laying its foundation stone three years ago and expressed pride that the first electric locomotive has now been successfully manufactured. Additionally, he announced that Gujarat has achieved 100% electrification of its railway network, calling it a remarkable milestone and congratulated the people of Gujarat for this achievement.

Reflecting on his long-standing connection with Dahod and recalling the many memories associated with the region, the PM remarked that he has been visiting Dahod for decades, and during his early years, he often explored the area on a bicycle. He highlighted that these experiences allowed him to understand both the challenges and potential of Dahod. Even after he became chief minister, he continued to visit the region and took decisive steps to address its issues. He emphasized that every development initiative in Dahod brings him immense satisfaction, and today is yet another meaningful day for him.

He highlighted that Dahod is a land of sacrifice and dedication, recalling that Maharishi Dadhichi gave up his life on the banks of the Dudhimati River to protect creation. He also noted that this region supported freedom fighter Tatya Tope in times of crisis and that Mangarh Dham stands as a symbol of the sacrifices made by Govind Guru and hundreds of tribal warriors.

Emphasizing that India’s cultural values demand action against injustice, questioning whether the nation could remain silent after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, Modi stated, “Operation Sindoor was not just a military action but a reflection of India’s values and emotions.” He remarked that terrorists had no idea of the consequences of their actions, recalling the brutality of killing a father in front of his children. He stated that such images still ignite anger across the nation, as 140 crore Indians were challenged by terrorism.

Modi declared that he fulfilled his responsibility as the nation’s leader, giving full freedom to India’s armed forces, who then executed an operation unseen in decades. He highlighted that nine major terror hubs across the border were identified and destroyed in 22 minutes, and stated that Pakistan’s military attempted retaliation but was decisively defeated by Indian forces. Modi reiterated his deep respect for the valor of India’s armed forces, saluting their courage and dedication from the sacred land of Dahod.

The PM remarked that the country born after partition has focused on hostility towards India and causing harm. “India, on the other hand, is committed to eradicating poverty, strengthening its economy, and achieving development.” The PM highlighted that a developed India can only be built when both its armed forces and economy are strong. He stated that the government is continuously working in this direction, ensuring national security and economic growth go hand in hand.

Gujarat chief minister Bhupendrabhai Patel and railways minister Ashwini Vaishnaw were present among other dignitaries at the event.