Ahmedabad, Aug 25 (HS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched a sharp attack on the Congress, accusing it of enjoying decades in power in the name of Mahatma Gandhi while disregarding his core ideals of swadeshi and cleanliness. Modi alleged that the Congress never pursued genuine self-reliance, instead fostering import dependency that led to systemic corruption.
Addressing a massive gathering at Khodaldham grounds after inaugurating and laying the foundation of urban development, energy, roads and railway projects worth ₹5,400 crore, the Prime Minister said that Congress ruled for nearly 60–65 years but kept India dependent on foreign imports. “This dependency became a source of corruption, and the people of India had to suffer the consequences,” he remarked.
PM Modi contrasted this with the present, asserting that today’s India has made aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) the cornerstone of building a developed nation. Calling Gujarat the “land of two Mohans”—Lord Krishna, the bearer of the Sudarshan Chakra, and Mahatma Gandhi, the bearer of the spinning wheel—he said the country is gaining strength by walking on both their paths. “Bapu showed the way of swadeshi,” PM Modi stressed, “but those who did politics in his name for decades betrayed his soul—neither embracing swadeshi nor valuing cleanliness.”
Making a festive appeal, the Prime Minister urged citizens to adopt ‘Made in India’ products in their daily lives and celebrate forthcoming festivals as “festivals of self-reliance.” He said, “Self-reliance is not merely a slogan, but the collective resolve of 1.4 billion Indians.”
Referring to the government’s firm approach against terrorism, PM Modi said earlier terror attacks went unanswered, but now India ensures terrorists and their handlers are not spared. He cited the “Pahalgam attack” and claimed that in “just 22 minutes” Indian forces struck back inside Pakistan under “Operation Sindoor,” symbolising India’s resolve and military might.
Underscoring his government’s commitment to the welfare of small traders, farmers, entrepreneurs and cattle rearers,PM Modi emphasized that their interests will always remain paramount. He showcased Gujarat’s rise as a major industrial hub, citing exports of electric locomotives and metro coaches, manufacturing of cars, motorcycles, aircraft parts, and the beginning of transport aircraft production in Vadodara. “Gujarat is also becoming a major hub for electric vehicle manufacturing,” he added.
Highlighting social welfare achievements,PM Modi said millions of poor families have received new permanent houses, ensuring dignity in life. Renovation of Sabarmati Ashram, he noted, is the truest tribute to Bapu. He underlined Gujarat’s rapid railway expansion since 2014, including 3,000 km of new tracks and complete electrification of the network, alongside enhanced port-to-industry rail connectivity.
PM Modi spoke extensively about uplifting labourers and slum dwellers, declaring, “Modi worships those who were never cared for.” He reaffirmed his mission to empower backward and emerging middle-class families.
Announcing GST reforms ahead of the festival season, the Prime Minister promised a “double festive bonus” for both traders and households, noting that 250 million people have risen from poverty in the last 11 years. The emerging neo-middle class, he said, is now a new engine of national growth.
In his concluding appeal,PM Modi urged citizens and traders to shun imported goods and promote indigenous products during Navratri, Dussehra, Dhanteras and Diwali. “From decorations to gifts, let us choose only Indian-made items. Small but decisive steps will pave the way for a prosperous India,” he said, calling for upcoming festivals to become not only cultural celebrations but also celebrations of aatmanirbharta.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
