Ahmedabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the redeveloped Kochrab Ashram and launched the Master Plan of Gandhi Ashram Memorial at Sabarmati Ashram today. This event, commemorating the historic date of March 12, marked a significant chapter in India’s freedom struggle and cultural heritage.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi’s statue and explored Hriday Kunj, reiterating the enduring importance of Bapu’s principles. A walkthrough of the exhibition and a symbolic tree-planting ceremony were part of the Prime Minister’s engagement, highlighting the government’s commitment to preserving historical landmarks.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi underscored Sabarmati Ashram’s role as a vibrant hub embodying Gandhiji’s values of truth, nonviolence, rashtra seva (national service), and service to the deprived. He emphasized the continuous inspiration drawn from these principles and recognized the Ashram’s contribution to upholding Gandhian ideals.
The redevelopment of Kochrab Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi stayed before moving to Sabarmati, was inaugurated during the event. Prime Minister Modi commended citizens for their participation in these significant and inspirational projects, emphasizing their importance in connecting with India’s rich history.
March 12 also marked the initiation of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav from Sabarmati Ashram. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the success of the Amrit Mahotsav, with over 3 crore people taking the oath of Panch Pran. Various initiatives like Amrit Vatikas, Amrit Sarovars, Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, and Meri Mati Mera Desh campaign were instrumental in fostering a sense of national pride and unity.
Addressing the neglected state of Sabarmati Ashram, Prime Minister Modi stressed the collective responsibility of all 140 crore Indians to preserve this historic site. He credited the cooperation of Ashram dwellers in reclaiming the 55-acre land and expressed the intention to maintain all buildings in their original form.
Drawing parallels with successful heritage preservation projects like Kashi Vishwanath Dham and Shri Ram Janambhoomi in Ayodhya, the Prime Minister praised Gujarat’s leadership in heritage preservation. Examples included the rejuvenation of Somnath and Ahmedabad’s recognition as a World Heritage City.
Referring to the broader campaign for restoring heritage linked to India’s freedom struggle, Prime Minister Modi cited the redevelopment of Rajpath, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s statue, and developments in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The restoration of Sabarmati Ashram was highlighted as a crucial step in this direction.
Prime Minister Modi envisioned Sabarmati Ashram as a pilgrimage site, inspiring future generations with the power of the charkha. He reiterated the government’s commitment to Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), Swadeshi (indigenous), and the welfare of rural poor. He stressed the importance of living through ancestral ideals in modern forms and praised the growing role of women and self-help groups.
Encouraging educational visits, the Prime Minister urged the Government of Gujarat and Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation to organize a competition for guides, enhancing the experience for heritage city visitors. He expressed confidence that providing a new perspective would strengthen the nation’s development journey. The event concluded with a renewed sense of commitment to preserving India’s rich cultural heritage.