Gandhinagar, Oct 20 (NationPress) Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has conveyed his heartfelt Diwali and Vikram Samvat 2082 New Year wishes to all the people of Gujarat—brothers, sisters, and fellow Gujaratis around the world, including those living abroad.

In his address, he expressed warm sentiments to families everywhere, encouraging everyone to welcome the New Year with renewed zeal, joy, and a unified spirit of prosperity.

The Chief Minister highlighted the significance of Diwali, stating that the strings of illuminated lamps serve as an enduring inspiration to transition from darkness to light.

Inspired by this ethos, Gujarat is on a path of advancement, propelled by the inclusive vision of ‘Sauna Saath, Sauna Vikas’—progress for all, with collective support.

He urged citizens to back local merchants and craftspeople during this festive season, promoting purchases from domestic producers under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative.

Through the campaign ‘Har Ghar Swadeshi, Ghar Ghar Swadeshi’, he called upon every household to adopt the philosophy of a self-reliant India.

The Chief Minister also noted that the Prime Minister’s “Next Gen GST Reforms” would enhance festive joy by streamlining business operations and accelerating development. He stated that Gujarat is experiencing unparalleled growth and prosperity.

In his New Year address, CM Patel reaffirmed the aspiration of India becoming a developed nation by 2047. Gujarat’s own roadmap—Developed Gujarat@2047—aligns perfectly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s national goals. Through the ‘Agenda for 2035’, the state has set ambitious targets for comprehensive development.

He expressed confidence that in this new year of Vikram Samvat, Gujaratis will rise with determination to fulfill the dream of a developed Gujarat, thereby contributing to the vision of a developed India. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel celebrated the festive spirit of Diwali by shopping with his grandson in Gandhinagar, embracing the occasion with warmth and simplicity.

In a public-friendly gesture, the Chief Minister visited the local market, interacting with vendors and shoppers alike.

He enthusiastically bought traditional items, including earthen lamps (diyas), in support of the ‘Swadeshi’ movement and the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative—advocating for indigenous craftsmanship and small-scale traders.

During his visit, Shri Patel engaged in friendly conversations with stallholders and extended heartfelt Diwali greetings. His approachable nature and genuine interactions made a lasting impact on the local community. Many were impressed by the Chief Minister’s humility, noting that Bhupendrabhai embodies the sentiment that a CM is, at heart, a “common man.”

His presence in the marketplace served as a reminder that leadership rooted in humility can bridge the gap between governance and everyday life.

Highlighting Gujarat’s emergence as the nation’s growth engine, he proudly announced that Ahmedabad will host the Commonwealth Games in 2030 - a moment of immense pride. The state’s rich culture and dynamic development, he stated, will continue to inspire the entire nation in the years to come.