On November 27, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Amreli, Gujarat, to lay the foundation stone and inaugurate various development projects worth over ₹4,900 crore. These projects span across the rail, road, water development, and tourism sectors, benefiting multiple districts, including Amreli, Jamnagar, Morbi, Devbhoomi Dwarka, Junagadh, Porbandar, Kachchh, and Botad.
Key Highlights of the Visit
- Development Projects: The projects include infrastructure improvements in water supply, road expansion, and rail upgrades. These initiatives aim to benefit both urban and rural populations across the region.
- Inaugurations and Foundations:
- The Prime Minister inaugurated Bharat Mata Sarovar in Amreli, developed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
- Key water-related projects were also launched, such as the Navda-Chavand Bulk Pipeline project and the second phase of the Pasvi Group Saurashtra Regional Water Supply Scheme.
- Road projects worth ₹2,800 crore, including the four-laning of NH 151, NH 151A, and NH 51, were also announced.
- The Bhuj-Naliya Rail Gauge Conversion Project was completed at a cost of ₹1,100 crore.
Addressing the People: Key Messages from the Prime Minister
- Cultural Significance: The Prime Minister celebrated the festive spirit of Dhanteras and Diwali while highlighting the ongoing progress in Gujarat’s development. He acknowledged Amreli’s rich history and its contribution to India’s cultural, political, and literary heritage.
- Water Conservation Efforts: Emphasizing water availability, Modi praised Gujarat’s efforts to address the longstanding water challenges, especially in Saurashtra. He spoke about initiatives such as the Sauni Scheme and Jalsanchay, which have significantly improved groundwater levels and water access in rural areas.
- Agricultural and Economic Growth: Modi highlighted the transformative impact of these water projects on local farming, noting that Amreli now enjoys three-season farming, benefiting crops like cotton, groundnut, and the famous Kesar mango. He also emphasized the rapid growth in the dairy industry, supported by government initiatives and cooperative societies.
- Solar Energy Initiatives: The PM mentioned the PM Surya Garh Yojana, which has led to the installation of over 200,000 solar panels across Gujarat. In Amreli, Dudhala village is emerging as a model solar village, saving significant amounts on electricity bills.
- Tourism and Heritage Preservation: The PM discussed the importance of Gujarat’s tourism sector, with significant sites like the Sardar Patel Statue drawing millions of visitors. He also highlighted the construction of the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal to showcase India’s maritime history.
- Infrastructure Development: The Prime Minister stressed the role of robust infrastructure in achieving a “Viksit Bharat.” He emphasized the development of connectivity through the Ro-Ro ferry service and the economic corridor from Jamnagar to Amritsar-Bhatinda, aimed at enhancing trade and tourism.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. What is the total worth of the development projects inaugurated by PM Modi in Amreli, Gujarat?
A) ₹5,000 crore
B) ₹4,900 crore
C) ₹3,500 crore
D) ₹4,000 crore
Answer: B) ₹4,900 crore
2. Which of the following projects was inaugurated by PM Modi in Amreli?
A) Solar Panel Manufacturing Plant
B) Bharat Mata Sarovar
C) Rajiv Gandhi Memorial
D) National Space Research Center
Answer: B) Bharat Mata Sarovar
3. What is the primary focus of the water-related projects launched in Gujarat?
A) Agricultural irrigation
B) Industrial water supply
C) Providing drinking water to villages
D) Flood control
Answer: C) Providing drinking water to villages
4. Which village in Amreli is being transformed into a solar village under PM Surya Garh Yojana?
A) Morbi
B) Kachchh
C) Dudhala
D) Porbandar
Answer: C) Dudhala
5. Which historical project will be constructed in Lothal as part of preserving Gujarat’s maritime heritage?
A) Sardar Patel Statue
B) National Maritime Heritage Complex
C) Sardar Sarovar Dam
D) Kesar Mango Research Center
Answer: B) National Maritime Heritage Complex
6. What significant improvement has been made to the Bharat Mata Sarovar in Amreli?
A) It has been connected to the Narmada River
B) Its water storage capacity increased from 4.5 crore liters to 24.5 crore liters
C) Solar panels have been installed
D) It has become a popular tourist attraction
Answer: B) Its water storage capacity increased from 4.5 crore liters to 24.5 crore liters
7. How many Amrit Sarovars have been constructed across India as part of the water conservation initiative?
A) 10,000
B) 60,000
C) 25,000
D) 100,000
Answer: B) 60,000