Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a gathering in Vadodara, highlighting education reforms, women’s empowerment initiatives, and community-led development efforts linked to Sardardham programmes. He praised institutions like Sardardham for their role in shaping youth careers through residential facilities, training, and academic support. These centers are seen as crucial “launching pads for future careers,” especially for students preparing for competitive exams.
PM Modi mentioned the significant impact of the National Education Policy-2020, which has brought about major changes in the education system, focusing not just on academic learning but also on skill development, innovation, and research. The policy aims to prepare youth for practical and professional opportunities, expanding apprenticeship opportunities to bridge the gap between education and employment.
Discussing women’s empowerment, PM Modi highlighted the increasing participation of women across sectors, signaling significant social transformation. He mentioned various government initiatives such as financial inclusion schemes, sanitation programs, housing support, and healthcare schemes like Ayushman Bharat and Matru Vandana. Additionally, he noted the growing presence of women in defense services, including roles as fighter pilots and training at the National Defence Academy.
PM Modi also touched upon the manufacturing prowess of Vadodara, emphasizing its role as a strong manufacturing hub in various sectors such as metro coaches, modern railway coaches, heavy machinery, chemicals, pharma, power equipment, and MSMEs. He inaugurated Sardar Dham Bhavan-3 during the event, marking the expansion of the educational and residential complex in Vadodara.
In a significant moment, PM Modi was honored with the ‘Sardar Gaurav Ratna’ award by representatives of Patidar community organizations during the same event. The award recognized his association with initiatives inspired by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s legacy and was presented in the presence of community leaders and trustees linked to the Sardardham project.
