Gujarat to Honour Narendra Modi with Annual Vikas Saptah Celebrations from October 7

The Gujarat government has announced the annual celebration of 'Vikas Saptah' or Development Week, starting from 7th October. This date marks the anniversary of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's oath-taking as Gujarat's 14th chief minister in 2001. The decision was made during a cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, as stated by Minister Rushikesh Patel.

During this week, various events will be held to showcase the state's development journey. Cultural performances by local artists and 'Vikas Walks' at 23 significant locations, including the Statue of Unity and Surat Diamond Bourse, are planned. These sites are recognised for their developmental achievements over the past 23 years.

Development Initiatives and Public Engagement

Citizens will be encouraged to share their experiences of Modi's governance through social and digital media using #VikasSaptah. Additionally, essay competitions on development themes will be organised in schools and colleges to engage students and youth. A pledge called ‘Bharat Vikas Pratigya’ will also be taken to promote public involvement in development.

Public spaces will feature wall paintings depicting Gujarat's 23-year development journey across various sectors. Several projects worth over Rs 3,500 crore are set to be launched during this period. These initiatives aim to highlight the state's progress under Modi's leadership.

Policy-Driven Governance

Modi's tenure as chief minister was marked by policy-driven governance that addressed public issues and promoted comprehensive development in industrial, agricultural, and service sectors. This approach has positioned Gujarat as a model of development globally. The foundation of this progress was built on "Urja Shakti, Jal Shakti, Gyan Shakti, Jan Shakti, and Raksha Shakti."

The cabinet also decided to extend the old pension scheme and other benefits to over 60,000 employees appointed on a fixed pay basis before April 1, 2005. This decision followed extensive discussions with stakeholders and is expected to cost the government over Rs 200 crore.

A committee formed by the Chief Minister held detailed meetings with stakeholders to resolve employee issues amicably. Despite initial terms excluding retirement benefits for these employees, the government has agreed in principle to provide them with an old pension scheme and other benefits.

The weeklong celebrations aim to highlight Gujarat's multifaceted development journey and the success of good governance under Modi's leadership. The state has become known as "the epitome of development" due to its advancements over the past two decades.