Gandhinagar: In a significant step toward the upliftment of Nomadic and Denotified Tribes, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the ‘Shanti Niwas’ Hostel and performed the ground-breaking ceremony for the ‘Vallabh Vidya Vihar’ School at Pansar in Kalol taluka. The initiative, led by the Vicharta Samuday Samarthan Manch (VSSM) and the Dr. K. R. Shroff Foundation, aims to strengthen education and residential facilities for marginalized communities.
The event was also attended by Gujarat BJP State President Mr. Jagdish Vishwakarma and several dignitaries, donors, social leaders, and members of the Nomadic and Denotified communities.
CM Bhupendra Patel Highlights PM Modi’s Vision for Inclusive Development
Speaking at the event in Gandhinagar, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently worked to restore dignity and identity to Nomadic and Denotified Tribes.
He said that the Prime Minister’s approach has been to transform adversity into opportunity by building long-term systems that ensure access to housing, education, and basic rights. According to the Chief Minister, providing a permanent address to such communities has been a key reform that enables access to government welfare schemes and social inclusion.
“Holistic Development of Nomadic Tribes Is a Sacred Mission”
The Chief Minister described the holistic development of Nomadic and Denotified Tribes as a “noble and sacred mission,” adding that participating in this cause is a matter of pride for society.
He urged collective empathy toward families who still struggle with uncertainty in shelter, food security, and education for their children. He emphasized that true development is only possible when the most deprived sections are brought into the mainstream.
Education and Infrastructure as Catalysts of Change
The newly inaugurated Shanti Niwas Hostel and upcoming Vallabh Vidya Vihar School are expected to significantly improve access to education for children from Nomadic communities.
The Chief Minister highlighted that education plays a transformative role in shaping a new generation and empowering them to uplift their communities. He added that such initiatives reflect a broader vision of “Viksit Gujarat through Viksit Bharat.”
Gujarat’s Progress in Technology Alongside Social Welfare
CM Bhupendra Patel also noted Gujarat’s growing contribution to India’s semiconductor sector, mentioning the recent launch of the state’s third semiconductor company. However, he stressed that despite rapid technological progress, the government remains equally committed to social welfare and cleanliness initiatives.
He added that balanced development—combining industrial growth with social upliftment—defines India’s global rise under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
BJP State President Praises VSSM’s Efforts
Gujarat BJP State President Mr. Jagdish Vishwakarma commended the work of Vicharta Samuday Samarthan Manch (VSSM) in providing education and support to Nomadic and Denotified Tribes.
He highlighted that inspired by the principle of “Antyodaya,” efforts are being made to ensure permanent housing and livelihood opportunities for marginalized families. He also suggested promoting traditional crafts and products of these communities to strengthen their economic independence.
Drawing a parallel with Gujarat’s success in promoting khadi under PM Modi’s leadership, he expressed confidence that tribal products could gain wider recognition and even Geographical Indication (GI) tags in the future.
VSSM Founder Shares Achievements and Future Vision
VSSM Founder Trustee Mr. Mittal Patel emphasized that sustained efforts and donor support have enabled large-scale welfare work, including:
- Construction of over 2,000 houses
- Financial assistance enabling 13,000 families to become self-reliant
- Deepening of 470 ponds
- Large-scale plantation drives
She recalled that the initiative, which began nearly two decades ago under tents, has now evolved into a modern educational campus. She also urged philanthropists to contribute toward the upliftment of communities such as the Vadi, Madari, Saraniya, and Kangasiya groups.
Key Attendees and Community Participation
The event witnessed participation from several dignitaries including:
- Kalol MLA Mr. Laxmanji Thakor
- Gandhinagar Collector Mr. Ravindra Khatale
- Donor Mr. Ronak Nayak
- Mr. Chandrakant Gogri (land donor of Aarti Parivar Sankul)
- Dr. K. R. Shroff Foundation President Mr. Uday Desai and Mr. Pratul Shroff
- VSSM President Mr. Liladhar Gada
A large number of families and children from Nomadic communities also attended the programme.
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