The Governing Council of the Mahatma Gandhi Sabarmati Ashram Memorial Trust was informed that the restoration of 28 buildings at the Ashram is set to be finalized by March 2026. The meeting, presided over by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and attended by Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, reviewed the progress of modernization and redevelopment efforts aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision.
Chairman of the Executive Council I.P. Gautam provided a comprehensive update on the project’s status, highlighting that work has commenced on 28 structures within the Ashram complex, with 22 already completed. He emphasized that the entire restoration endeavor is on track for completion by March 2026. Additionally, the Council was briefed on the environmental initiatives incorporated into the redevelopment, including the planting of nearly 98,000 trees and plants on the premises, with plans for an additional 16,000 plantations by the project’s deadline.
Efforts were made to link Mahatma Gandhi’s ‘Shramdaan’ concept with the Ashram’s ongoing activities, exploring ways to involve visitors, especially youth, in structured service programs during their visits. The foundation stone for the project was laid on March 12, 2024, coinciding with the anniversary of the Dandi March, underscoring its symbolic national significance. Chief Minister Patel has been actively monitoring the project’s progress, aiming for the timely completion of core elements to enable widespread visitor engagement and heritage interpretation.
Discussions within the Council also focused on facilitating visitor engagement and heritage interpretation, with a particular emphasis on involving young people. The Governing Council endorsed the agenda of its previous meeting, with attendees including Rajya Sabha MP Narhari Amin, Kartikeya Sarabhai, Jayesh Patel, Chief Secretary M.K. Das, and other officials.
