Gujarat Chief Minister Assures 'Rann Utsav' Will Propel Gujarat Towards a Developed India

Kachchh (Gujarat), Dec 16 (NationPress) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed his belief that the 'Rann Utsav' of Kutch, which integrates development and heritage, will act as a beacon for building a developed Gujarat as part of a developed India.

During the 'Rann Utsav', a unique postal cover was unveiled by the Indian Postal Department that highlights the rich culture of Kutch, as stated by the Chief Minister.

CM Patel also attended a cultural event hosted by the Gujarat Tourism Corporation Limited at White Rann, Dhordo, in the Kachchh district, where he was the chief guest on Sunday.

He observed a variety of performances that highlighted the vibrant art and culture of Kutch.

At the event, the Chief Minister, along with other dignitaries, launched a special postal cover dedicated to 'Rann Utsav' issued by the Indian Department of Posts, as reported by the CM's office.

In homage to Sardar Patel, the architect of a united India, on his death anniversary, the CM remarked that just as Sardar Saheb unified the nation by integrating princely states, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has fostered 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat' by emphasizing the language, culture, and tourism of every state.

He emphasized that Rann Utsav, celebrating desert culture and tourism, presents a chance to realize this vision.

Reflecting on Kutch's development under Modi's leadership, it was noted that he initiated 'Rann Utsav' with minimal planning, underscoring the festival's significance.

CM Patel highlighted that the Rann, once regarded as barren land, has transformed into a global tourism gateway through Rann Utsav, showcasing the foresight of the Prime Minister.

Notably, Dhordo, the festival's location, has been awarded the 'Best Tourism Village' accolade by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation.

The Kutch Rann Utsav has not only significantly enhanced Gujarat's tourism sector but has also contributed to the economic and social growth of numerous communities, as highlighted in the statement.

The Chief Minister also stressed the state's commitment to upgrading tourism infrastructure, making Kutch more accessible.

This year, direct Volvo bus services have been introduced from Ahmedabad airport to Dhordo, providing tourists a straightforward route to Rann Utsav. This initiative facilitates easy access for both domestic and international visitors to the White Rann from the airport. Since the festival's inception, tourist numbers have consistently increased, with over 7 lakh visitors recorded last year.

State Tourism Minister Mulubhai Bera mentioned in his speech that Gujarat has always been a center for art and literature.

Thanks to the PM's vision and the efforts of the Gujarat government, the White Rann of Kutch has achieved worldwide recognition as a premier tourist destination. Rann Utsav has developed into more than just a festival; it has become a job source for the people of Kutch. Today, it is a model of development for Gujarat, especially for Kutch.

The Tourism Minister further noted that the surge of lakhs of tourists to Kutch has spotlighted local arts, allowing Kutch artisans to tap into a global market.

Over 460 tents, valued at Rs 54 crore, will be erected for the upcoming season, enabling middle-class visitors to experience unique accommodations during the festival. Under the PM's vision, Kutch's rich culture has reached both national and international audiences.

The event was attended by several esteemed guests, including Kutch Morbi MP Vinod Chavda, MLA Keshubhai Patel, panchayat president Janaksinh Jadeja, and various officials from the Tourism department, Police, BSF, and others, as detailed in the statement.