Vadodara: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the third phase of Sardar Dham, built at a cost of ₹150 crore, along with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and other dignitaries.
The facility will provide vocational training and competitive exam coaching to around 2,000 students, making it a major centre for youth skill development and education.
PM Modi Emphasises Economic Discipline and ‘Vocal for Local’
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the need to reduce pressure on foreign exchange reserves amid global economic uncertainty.
He urged citizens to:
- Reduce fuel consumption and promote public transport, EVs, and metro use
- Avoid unnecessary gold purchases to reduce import burden
- Strengthen the ‘Vocal for Local’ movement
- Promote domestic tourism to save foreign exchange
- Prefer online and flexible education models where needed
He also stressed adopting a responsible and economically conscious lifestyle during challenging global conditions.
Push for Sustainable Living and Domestic Economy
The Prime Minister called for reducing dependence on imported crude oil and edible oil and encouraged healthier lifestyle choices.
He also promoted:
- Natural farming and reduced chemical fertilisers
- Increased use of solar pumps over diesel pumps
- Greater focus on local products and Indian entrepreneurship
Domestic Tourism and Local Development Push
PM Modi urged citizens to explore India’s cultural and historical destinations instead of travelling abroad.
He also encouraged:
- Destination weddings within India
- Promotion of tourism hubs like Statue of Unity
- Invitations to foreign tourists to visit India
Sardar Dham as a Youth Development Hub
The Prime Minister praised Sardar Dham for its role in education and youth empowerment, calling it a “launching pad” for future leaders.
He highlighted its growing network across Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot, Bhuj, Mehsana, Delhi, and other cities.
A new girls’ hostel foundation and education assistance schemes were also announced to support students.
Gujarat’s Role in India’s Development Vision
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said that Gujarat is actively contributing to the vision of a self-reliant and developed India by 2047.
He highlighted major initiatives such as:
- ₹500 crore Sardar Dham education assistance scheme
- Focus on social development and nation-building
- Youth skill development and rural education support
Gujarat’s Industrial and Technological Growth
The Prime Minister also highlighted Gujarat’s rapid industrial expansion in sectors such as:
- Semiconductors (Sanand, Dholera, Surat)
- Aerospace and green energy
- Engineering, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals
- Transport and logistics through Gati Shakti University
Vadodara, in particular, is emerging as a major manufacturing hub with strong rail, metro, and industrial growth.
Nation-Building Through Education and Community Efforts
Leaders emphasised that institutions like Sardar Dham play a vital role in nation-building by combining education with cultural values.
The event brought together political leaders, industrialists, and community representatives, marking a strong collaboration between society and government in shaping India’s development journey.
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