Kolhapur, June 20: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s twelve years in office have transformed India’s development trajectory and elevated the country’s stature on the global stage, asserting that this period would be remembered as a landmark chapter in the history of independent India.
Addressing a gathering after launching the ambitious Shri Ambabai Temple Corridor Project in Maharashtra’s Kolhapur district, Shah said the achievements recorded under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership have laid the foundation for a strong, self-reliant and culturally vibrant India while significantly enhancing the nation’s international standing.
He said several goals that were once considered difficult to achieve have become reality during the past twelve years. Referring to major religious and heritage projects undertaken across the country, Shah highlighted the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, redevelopment of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, restoration works at Kedarnath and Badrinath shrines, and development initiatives at Somnath and Kamakhya temples.
The Home Minister said the Government has successfully balanced rapid development with the preservation of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage, leading to a nationwide cultural renaissance. He described the Shri Ambabai Temple Corridor Project as another major initiative aimed at conserving and promoting the country’s rich religious and historical legacy.
Shah said the corridor project, estimated to cost around Rs 500 crore, would modernize the historic temple complex through the creation of advanced infrastructure, improved facilities for pilgrims, heritage galleries, AI-enabled security systems, modern illumination and other public amenities while maintaining the temple’s traditional and architectural character.
He further announced that several temples surrounding the revered Mahalaxmi Temple would also be restored and conserved in consultation with heritage experts and archaeological authorities to preserve their historical significance.
Praising Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, Shah said India has made remarkable progress in sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, digital technology, semiconductor production, innovation and space research. He noted that reforms and initiatives launched over the last twelve years have accelerated economic growth and strengthened India’s position among the world’s leading nations.
Highlighting India’s achievements in space exploration, Shah referred to the successful Chandrayaan mission and said the accomplishment had filled every Indian with pride while demonstrating the country’s scientific and technological capabilities before the international community.
The Home Minister also reiterated the Government’s commitment to safeguarding national security and addressing issues related to illegal infiltration, stating that strict measures would continue to be taken to protect the country’s interests.
During his visit, Shah offered prayers at the historic Mahalaxmi Temple, inaugurated several development projects and reviewed works being implemented under the Western Maharashtra Temple Development Plan. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were also present on the occasion. Officials said the broader temple development master plan approved by the Maharashtra Government aims to boost Kolhapur’s religious, cultural and tourism sectors through heritage conservation, infrastructure development and enhanced facilities for devotees, thereby contributing to regional economic growth and cultural preservation. (KNC)
