Somnath : ‘PRASHAD’ scheme will have three projects in Somnath. Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple developmental projects of worth Rs. 85 crores in Somnath today for well-being and convenience of the people visiting Somnath. The projects inaugurated include the Somnath Promenade, Somnath Exhibition Centre and reconstructed temple precinct of Old Somnath. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of Shree Parvati Temple during the event. PM bowed to lord somnath mahadev and said that it is a moment of pride for him to inaugurate such projects in Somnath. The Somnath Temple is an inspiration of faith not only for India but for the entire world. PM paid tribute to Sardar Patel who showed indomitable will power for the revival of India’s ancient glory. Sardar Patel linked Somnath Mandir with independent spirit of independent India. PM also remembered Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar who renovated several temples from Vishwanath to Somnath. Country is moving forward taking inspiration from the blend of modernity and tradition in her life. He also recalled the first President Dr. Rajendra Prasad and expressed his determination for the glory of Somnath. Reflecting on the history of the revered temple, the Prime Minister recalled the repeated destruction of the temple and how the temple rose after every attack. ‘It is a symbol of the belief that truth can’t be defeated by falsehood and faith can’t be crushed by terror.’ “The destructive powers, the thinking that tries to establish an empire on the basis of terror, may dominate temporarily, but, its existence is never permanent, it cannot suppress humanity for a long time. This was true when some attackers were demolishing Somnath, it is equally true even today, when the world is apprehensive of such ideologies.” PM highlighted the role of the faith and belief system in the underscoring the unity of India. He said ‘From Somnath and Nageshwar in the west to Vaidyanathin the east, from Baba Kedarnath in the north to Rameshwar, at the extreme southern end of India, these 12 Jyotirlingas serve to connect the whole of India. Similarly, the arrangement of our four dhams, the concept of our Shaktipeeths, the establishment of different pilgrimages in different corners of our country, this outline of our faith is actually an expression of the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.’
Under PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) Scheme works are carried out for three projects. Attention is being paid to connect the places of pilgrimages. PM said that the country is not only connecting common citizens through tourism but is moving forward too. The Country has moved from 65th place in year 2013 on Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index to 34th place in year 2019. Union Home Minister and Trustee of Somnath Mandir Trust Amit Shah said that, ever since Prime Minister Narendra Bhai Modi has joined Somnath Trust, he has made continuous efforts for the overall development of Somnath and PRASHAD scheme is the result of the same. He said that Major cleaning work is being done in Somnath campus. Under PRASHAD scheme, facilities including Somnath Promenade will attract tourist at the temple.1.5 km long sea view path would not only provide convenience to the pilgrims but also provide employment to the locals. He outlined the coordination between the Government of India and the Government of Gujarat as well as the Somnath Trust as well as a number of works being done in collaboration for the development. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani joining from the Ram Mandir Auditorium at Somnath, said thatunder the guidance of the Prime Minister and Chairman of the Trust, Mr. Narendra Modi, many works are being done by Somnath Trust to facilitate the pilgrims.While the country is reviving the ancient glory by building modern infrastructure.GoG is Committed for the development of Somnath.
Mentioning that a series of infrastructural works have been undertaken for the development of pilgrimage places in Gujarat including Somnath, CM informed that the Somnath Trust has done a lot of services during the Tauktae cyclone and the Corona pandemic. He also welcomed the arrangement made by Somnath Trust using technology for digital darshan. The Chief Minister apprised about the increase in accommodation for pilgrims in Somnath and also outlined the work being done by the state government for tourism development. On the occasion of construction of Shri Parvati Mata’s temple at Somnath temple premises, CM also performed ritual Poojawith members of the donor family and members of the Somnath Trust family.
