Gandhinagar: In a landmark move to strengthen infrastructure and welfare in Gujarat’s border areas, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth ₹358.37 crore in the Suigam–Nadabet region of Banaskantha district. This initiative marks a significant step toward holistic and inclusive development of one of Gujarat’s most strategically located districts.
Transforming Border Districts with Strategic Investments
With a vision to uplift border regions, the Chief Minister launched development works worth ₹55.68 crore and committed the government’s unwavering focus on inclusive progress. The projects aim to improve connectivity, healthcare, water management, education, and employment in remote areas of Banaskantha.
Mr. Bhupendra Patel praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s national vision, stating that under his leadership, India has emerged among the world’s leading nations and Gujarat has witnessed comprehensive development.
Campaigns for Future Generations and Sustainable Living
Addressing the public gathering, the Chief Minister highlighted the success of nationwide initiatives like “Catch the Rain” and “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, emphasizing their role in combating global warming and promoting sustainability for future generations.
He reiterated the state’s commitment to water conservation, sharing that Banaskantha alone is constructing 50,000 recharge wells under the “Catch the Rain” campaign, with 30,000 already built — largely supported by Banaskantha Dairy.
Healthcare and Education at the Forefront
Reaffirming the principle that “Health is the greatest wealth,” CM Patel detailed the government’s achievements in healthcare, including free medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh under Ayushman Bharat, the establishment of medical colleges in all districts, and the training of over 7,000 doctors annually.
He also celebrated the region’s dramatic rise in educational performance, crediting initiatives like Shala Praveshotsav, Kanya Kelavani, and Gunotsav. Once seen as lagging behind, Banaskantha now ranks number one in Gujarat for Class 10 and 12 exam results.
Water, Industry, and Employment Empower Border Communities
Speaker Mr. Shankar Chaudhary applauded the transformation of Banaskantha from a barren desert into a vibrant tourism hub. Government efforts have expanded water supply into the Rann and ensured water reaches remote villages like Deesa, Lakhni, and Kankrej through new pipelines and canals.
He also announced the approval of the new Vav-Tharad district, the development of GIDC (Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation) zones in every taluka, and the increase in employment opportunities across the cooperative and industrial sectors.
Read Also: CM Bhupendra Patel to Visit BSF Jawans at Nadabet, Dedicates Rs358 Crore Projects in Banaskantha
Recognition, Faith, and Community Participation
The Chief Minister was honored with a replica and Shree Yantra made from the sacred soil of 51 Shakti Peeths, presented by the Jay Bhole Group of Ahmedabad. Local MLA Mr. Swarupji Thakor extended his heartfelt gratitude for the announcement of the new district and for prioritizing Banaskantha in the government’s developmental roadmap.
Leaders and Officials Join Forces for Border Growth
The grand event saw the presence of prominent state leaders and administrative officials, including:
- Mr. Swarupji Thakor, Mr. Pravin Mali, Mr. Aniket Thakor, Mr. Keshaji Chauhan, and Mr. Mavjibhai Desai (MLAs)
- Mr. Mihir Patel (District Collector), Mr. M.J. Dave (DDO), Mr. Akshayraj Makwana (SP)
- Industry Minister Mr. Balvantsinh Rajput, district leader Mr. Kirtisinh Vaghela, and other department heads, BSF personnel, and citizens.
Minister Balvantsinh Rajput highlighted the ₹7,200 crore allocated to Banaskantha over the last three years and emphasized Gujarat’s growing reputation as a development model for India.