Ahmedabad, Oct 30 (NationPress) On the eve of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and dedicated a series of development projects totaling Rs 1,220 crore at the Statue of Unity complex located in Ekta Nagar, Narmada district, Gujarat.

These initiatives, which encompass sectors such as tourism, sports, infrastructure, and sustainability, signify a significant advancement towards transforming Ekta Nagar into a benchmark of integrated and sustainable development.

In honor of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Prime Minister also launched a Rs 150 commemorative coin and a distinctive postal stamp, issued by the Reserve Bank of India and India Post, respectively.

The event commenced with a captivating audio-visual presentation showcasing pivotal moments from the life of India’s Iron Man, illustrating his courageous youth and legal prowess, alongside his historic endeavors in uniting princely states such as Junagadh, Hyderabad, and Kashmir. The performance by artists from the National School of Drama garnered enthusiastic applause.

Among the key projects inaugurated were: Museum of Royal Kingdoms of India (Rs 367.25 crore), Visitor Centre (Rs 140.45 crore), Veer Balak Udyan (Rs 90.46 crore), Travelator Extension (Rs 27.43 crore), Sports Complex (Rs 23.60 crore), Jetty Development (Rs 12.50 crore), and Rain Forest (Rs 12.85 crore).

Additionally, 25 new e-buses valued at Rs 30 crore were introduced to bolster Ekta Nagar’s green transport framework.

The Prime Minister also laid the groundwork for several major infrastructure projects, including -- Birsa Munda Bhavan (Rs 303 crore), Hospitality District Phase I (Rs 54.65 crore), Satpura Protection Wall and Riverfront (Rs 20.72 crore), Bonsai Garden (Rs 18.68 crore), E-Bus Charging Depot (Rs 5.52 crore), and Smart Bus Stops Phase II (Rs 4.68 crore).

In his address, Prime Minister Modi stated: “The vision of unity upheld by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel continues to motivate our nation. These initiatives at Ekta Nagar embody India’s dedication to progress, sustainability, and inclusive growth.”

The event concluded with an energetic cultural program celebrating Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat, emphasizing India’s unity in diversity.

Senior officials, armed forces members, and thousands of attendees gathered at the world’s tallest statue, the Statue of Unity, a global emblem of national pride and unity.

A grand celebration of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is scheduled for October 31 at Ekta Nagar, commemorating Sardar Patel’s 150th birthday, as announced by Minister and State Spokesperson Jitu Vaghani.