Jalandhar, Feb 1 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked on Sunday that the path of service illuminated by Guru Ravidas-ji has infused the people with renewed inspiration and vitality.

Speaking to a crowd at Dera Sachkhand in Ballan, Punjab, to celebrate the 649th birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas, PM Modi noted the exemplary contributions of Dera Sachkhand Ballan in the realms of education and healthcare.

“This continuous effort is guided by the esteemed Sant Niranjan Das-ji Maharaj, under whose leadership the philosophies of Shri Guru Ravidas-ji have transcended borders, reaching several nations worldwide,” he added.

While praising the organization’s commitment to social service, PM Modi highlighted that Sant Niranjan Das was honored with the Padma Shri on Republic Day, stating, “I am also pleased to share that the Adampur airport has been renamed in honor of Guru Ravidas-ji. It will now officially be recognized as Guru Ravidas Ji Maharaj Ji Airport, along with the inauguration of a new terminal at Halwara airport.”

“I extend my heartfelt wishes to everyone for these remarkable initiatives. Guru Ravidas-ji advocated for equality and equal opportunities in society,” he expressed.

Earlier, PM Modi, alongside Dera Sachkhand’s leader Sant Niranjan Dass, offered prayers. “I pay homage to the sacred land of Punjab. Today marks the auspicious occasion of the 649th birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas-ji. It is a privilege to be present with all of you on this holy day, and I send my greetings to fellow citizens on Sant Ravidas Jayanti and Magh Purnima.

“During my tenure as a Member of Parliament for Kashi (Varanasi), I felt the profound impact of Sant Ravidas-ji’s teachings on the ghats of Kashi. His wisdom continues to be a source of inspiration for us all,” he stated.

PM Modi shared, “Recently, with the blessings of Sant Niranjan Dass Ji Maharaj and other saints, a prayer ceremony was conducted at Dera Sach Khand Ballan on my birthday.”

He emphasized that this occasion is not merely an ordinary event but holds significant personal value. “The service path laid out by Sant Ravidas has energized and inspired me. I express my sincere gratitude for your warmth,” he remarked.

He announced the construction of a temple and museum dedicated to Guru Ravidas in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar, where he had the honor of laying the foundation stone.

“I am optimistic that through our combined efforts, we will fortify our community's foundation,” he added.

Discussing the Union Budget aimed at strengthening rural areas and increasing farmers' income, PM Modi mentioned Punjab’s reputation for having skilled youth. “The trade agreement will provide substantial advantages to our brothers and sisters in Punjab.”

“In regions like Jalandhar, Ludhiana, and Amritsar, countless individuals are part of the textile industry. This new agreement will open up new and larger markets for Punjab's textile sector,” he stated.

“With the blessings of Sant Ravidas-ji, I am confident we will achieve our vision of a Developed India,” he concluded.

“Earlier today, the national budget was revealed in Parliament. This budget is designed to empower the underprivileged, farmers, the youth, and women,” PM Modi added.

In addition to renaming the Adampur Airport, PM Modi also virtually inaugurated the terminal building at Halwara Airport in Ludhiana.

This initiative enhances the aviation infrastructure in Punjab, establishing a new gateway for the region that supports its industrial and agricultural backdrop. The Halwara airport, located in Ludhiana district, is also home to a strategically significant Indian Air Force station.