Narendra Modi in Gujarat Day 1 as it happened: PM hails Aadhaar, promotes digital literacy and innovation

Recap: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Vadnagar to rousing welcome

Modi thanks Yogi Adityanath for organising Pashu Mela

Gujarat's strides in animal husbandry have helped farmers. I told @CMOfficeUP @myogiadityanath to send a team to Gujarat and study the Pashu Arogya Melas. They did that and organised a similar one in Varanasi, which I had the opportunity to visit & see how it helped farmers: PM

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 8, 2017

Modi woos fishermen community

“Government of India is taking steps towards the empowerment of fishermen. We do not want our fishermen to live in poverty, we want to create more opportunities for them,” Modi said in his Bharuch address.

Political will helped us in building Narmada Sarovar Dam, says Modi

While claiming that the Sarovar dam was a result of government’s sheer political will, Modi reiterated that the river Narmada is an integral part of Gujarat’s economic and social life.

Modi’s talks about his govt urea scheme

We decided that 100% neem coating of urea has to be done so that it can only be used in farming & not in chemical factories: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/TUUt9Eykdm

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

Modi takes a dig at his opponents 

“I have taken birth in the land of Gandhi and Sardar. So it does not matter how many thieves come and go, but ultimately truth and sincerity will win,” Modi said in an apparent dig at the Opposition.

Modi speaks of chemicals companies looting urea

“Urea subsidy used to reach chemical companies and not the farmers. These companies, who used to get the urea at cheap rates, used to sell products in the market. But the farmers were deprived of urea. The central government used to be looted,” Modi said.

Modi’s outreach to UP, Bihar

“Whether it is Diwali or Chhat Puja, the train is a gift from the West of India to the people from UP and Bihar. Now they can connect with us.,” Modi said.

The train is a gift for UP, Bihar workers

“Workers come to Gujarat to work but then on holidays, he has to reach home. But there are so many difficulties, especially for those from UP, Bihar. So, we have launched the train. This part of Deen Dayal Upadhayay’s dream of Antyodaya,” Modi said.

Modi begins his address

Antyodaya Express flagged off

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the Antyodaya Express, which will run between Udhna in Gujarat to Jaynagar in Bihar. Interestingly, he flagged off the train via a video link.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates Bhadbhut Barrage project

Modi reaches Bharuch, to lay foundation of barrage on the Narmada

Gujarat: PM Modi in Bharuch; will lay foundation stone of barrage over Narmada River, flag off Antyodaya Express. pic.twitter.com/oXwHBcvG3p

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

This is where Modi addressed people of his hometown in Vadnagar

PM @narendramodi addresses a public meeting at Vadnagar, Gujarat pic.twitter.com/mtNVaJOtIf

— PIB India (@PIB_India) October 8, 2017

The Antyodaya Express 

Image courtesy: Twitter @RailMinIndia

What’s on Modi’s agenda in Bharuch

Modi will lay the foundation stone for Rs 3,000-crore Bhadbhut barrage project over river Narmada, as well as a Rs 650-crore Dahej-Ghogha Ro-Ro ferry service near Bharuch in South Gujarat. After that, Modi will fly off to New Delhi from Vadodara, CNN News18 reported.

Narendra Modi’s emotional homecoming 

“Coming back to one’s hometown and receiving such a warm welcome is special. I go back with your blessings and assure you that I will work even harder for the nation,” said Modi, who is on a two-day visit to Gujarat. Whatever I am today is due to values I have learnt on this soil, among you all in Vadnagar," he added addressing a public meeting in Vadnagar. Read more here .

IANS

Modi focussed on healthcare facilities in his speech

Modi launched the “Intensified Mission Indradhanush” to accelerate progress towards the goal of full immunization coverage. “I am happy that I have got to inaugurate projects relating to the health sector, particularly Intensified Mission Indradhanush,” said Modi. “Work is constantly being done to make healthcare affordable for the poor,” he added. 

IANS

Narendra Modi to launch Antyodaya Express in Bharuch

Udhna-Jaynagar Antyodaya Exp set to be flagged off by Hon'ble PM @narendramodi thru video link from Bharuch pic.twitter.com/nyyQVvpBkS

— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) October 8, 2017

Union Minister JP Nadda thanks PM for launching Mission Indradhanush

Grateful to Hon'ble PM @narendramodi ji for encouraging healthcare in India by launching Intensified Mission Indradhanush. pic.twitter.com/UGZmjcburh

— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) October 8, 2017

Glimpses of Modi’s tour to GMERS Medical College

PM @narendramodi at GMERS Medical College, Vadnagar, Gujarat pic.twitter.com/S57JN3WDLP

— PIB India (@PIB_India) October 8, 2017

Modi’s relative recounts PM’s childhood

Pankaj Modi, a relative of the prime minister spoke to News18 on the mood in the town and said, “Gaon ka beta aa raha hai. Mood is ecstaitc in Vadnagar.”

Recalling Modi’s childhood, Pankaj said, “He used to focus on his studies and when free, he used to sell tea at the railway station. During the Indo-Sino war, he reached the station and gave tea and food to soldiers.”

Narendra Modi inaugurates the new Vadnagar medical institute 

Image courtesy: Twitter @Pib_India

Narendra Modi launching Mission Indradhanush 

Image courtesy: Twitter @BJP4Gujarat

Son of soil returns home, say Modi supporters

There were chants of “Modi-Modi” and flowers were showered on him at several places along the route of the roadshow. The locals told mediapersons it was a matter of great pride that the “son of the soil” was the prime minister and was visiting the town after a long time.

Modi’s tribute to people of Vadnagar

“Immense love showered by people of Vadnagar gives me new energy to serve the nation with more zeal,” PTI quoted Modi as saying while promising to work even more harder for the people of Gujarat.

Watch: Modi revisits history to laud India-China ties

#WATCH: PM Modi talks about Chinese President says,'scholar Xuanzang visited my village in India & in China he visited Pres Xi's village' pic.twitter.com/jZOuCTlxxM

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

Modi concludes his speech by invoking Hatkeshwar, the local deity

PM Modi says India needs more doctors

Today I met youngsters from a medical college. We as a society require more doctors who can serve people: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/zYH2XApx6f

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 8, 2017

PM promises to make Sharmistha lake a tourist centre

“Sharmistha lake is the heart of Vadnagar. We will make it a tourist hotspot,” says Modi in his hometown.

We helped people with heart diseases, says Modi

We brought prices of stents down. Work is constantly being done to make healthcare affordable for the poor: PM in #Vadnagar pic.twitter.com/OLyRwnMcaO

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

Work one day of a month for free: Modi

In a bid to reduce infant and maternal mortality rates in Gujarat, Modi urged doctors to work for free on the ninth day of every month. “This will help poor women to not travel far off places for delivering babies,” Modi said.

UPA ignored health policy, says Modi

Slamming the UPA government for not bringing in a health policy, Modi said it was the Vajpayee government between 1998 and 2004, which brought a comprehensive health policy. He said that the UPA did not attach importance to the policy while it was after NDA came to power that the policy was renewed.

Modi’s appeal to people of India

“I request people to think Indradhanush as your own campaign. As much as you feel happy when you donate blood or do other charities, you should also help the poor children to get immunised. You will be blessed,” says Modi.

Modi invokes history to laud Vadnagar

Modi said that the archeological excavations from Vadnagar have become the focal point of world community. He said that Vadnagar is now the only place in the world which has been continuously been inhabitant by people. Modi said that Vadnagar was a major Buddhist learning centre in the ancient times.

I will work harder for Gujarat, says Modi

“I will work harder for the people of Gujarat. I will work on the ideals taught by the people of Vadnagar, I promise it,” Modi said.

Modi lauds Vadnagar

“Whatever I am today, it is all because of Vadnagar and its people,” says Narendra Modi.

Modi invokes Field Marshal Carriappa to begin speech

“Once Carriappa went to his village, where he said that the experience of being welcomed by natives is something which cannot be compared,” Modi said. “I feel the same,” said Modi.

Modi has begun his address

Recap: What Rahul Gandhi said during his Saurashtra tour

In Gujarat, to kickstart Congress’ campaign under the theme, “Yuva Rojgar, Kisan Adhikar”, Gandhi delineated the party’s national theme for 2019 as he said while addressing village meetings, that the country faced two burning issues, “one is the lack of jobs for lakhs of youth; and the other is the farmer plunging into deeper crisis".

Good reception to Rahul might have unnerved BJP

Saurashtra is like Uttar Pradesh of Gujarat for it sends the maximum number of MLAs, 52, to the 182-member state Assembly and is the BJP’s bastion for two decades. Congress getting an unusually positive response to Gandhi in this region is a matter of concern for the BJP, which depends completely on the persona of Modi.

Recap: Modi launches six infrastructure projects on Saturday

By Saturday afternoon itself, the prime minister had laid foundation stones of as many as six infrastructure projects: Signature sea link bridge from Dwarka to the popular island pilgrimage centre, Bet Dwarka, four-laning of Dwarka-Porbander highway as well as Gadu-Porbander road, four laning of Rajkot-Morbi state highway, six laning of major Ahmedabad-Rajkot highway and Rajkot International Airport.

PMO tweets about the enthusiastic atmosphere in Vadnagar

Vibrant atmosphere in Vadnagar in the run-up to the Prime Minister's visit. pic.twitter.com/z4y7aI5DFb

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 8, 2017

BJP Gujarat praises Modi’s tenure as CM for boosting medical education

શ્રી @narendramodi ના શાસનમાં રાજ્યમાં જ મેડિકલ કોલેજોની સુવિધા ઉભી થઇ જેથી, રાજ્યના યુવાનો માટે રાજ્યમાં જ મેડિકલ શિક્ષણ લઇ શકે pic.twitter.com/ztKSgqWbbo

— BJP Gujarat (@BJP4Gujarat) October 8, 2017

Narendra Modi to launch Mission Indra Dhanush, a immunisation drive in Vadnagar

​

Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi to launch Mission Intensified Indra Dhanush, an immunization program, in #Vadnagar. pic.twitter.com/JFh8qHqOlK

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

Narendra Modi at his Vadnagar school

When Modi reach​ed his school, he got down from his car impromptu leaving all security​ barricades aside and he went inside, followed by the crowds. Before entering the school, he sat down on the floor and bowed down at the entrance.  ​

BJP mobilises students to attend Modi’s address

Hundreds of school students were mobilised by the local unit of the Bharatiy​a Janata Party to attend Modi’s public address in his hometown Vadnagar, where he has come for the first time after becoming the prime minister in 2014. The students are attired in saffron or white dresses, with saffron caps. The T-shirts have the logo “Welcome NaMo.” printed on them.

Narendra Modi at Hatkeshwar temple

Image courtesy: Twitter @BJP4India

Modi gets a hero’s welcome in Vadnagar

​

Every nook and every corner of the town was choc-a-bloc with people to receive him. The massive crowds made an emotional Modi hold a roadshow that was not part of the itinerary. Modi hung out of his Range Rover SUV through the route and waved at the surging crowds.

Modi launches development projects in Vadnagar

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel and Union Minister JP Nadda are also present with Modi, News18 reports.

Modi inaugurates new hospital in Vadnagar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a Rs 500 crore modern six-storey Civil Hospital associated with the local medical college. He interacted with the medical students in the college in their own classroom. This hospital is set to cater to lakhs of patients in North Gujarat and south Rajasthan, which borders the region.

Narendra Modi interacts with the students of the medical college

Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi interacts with students at #Vadnagar's GMERS Medical College. pic.twitter.com/JNUF1hWm60

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

Modi inaugurates medical college

Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi dedicates #Vadnagar's GMERS Medical College to the nation; Gujarat CM, Dy CM & Union Min JP Nadda also present. pic.twitter.com/M9ySQBIcfZ

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

Modi turns emotional in Vadnagar  

While visiting his school, an emotional Narendra Modi smeared his forehead with​ ​the sand of Vadnagar and kneeled his head to the ground.

Why the GST decision is important for BJP’s electoral calculation

The BJP’s biggest and the most loyal vote bank in Gujarat has been the urban middle class and GST has hit them the most, coming as it did after the sledgehammer impact of demonetisation. Rupani has also announced that petrol and diesel prices will come down in the state, though he has not given a timeframe.

Why Modi’s visit to Gujarat is so crucial

The perception in the BJP, that is ruling Gujarat since 1995, and rightly so is that Modi alone could dwarf all caste contradictions and anti-incumbency in the state just by a few visits with his “vikas purush” (development man) positioning. That the prime minister is on a veritable foundation stone-laying spree during this visit is also to forcefully drum home the message of development.

Narendra Modi prays at Vadnagar’s Hatkeshwar temple

Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi offers prayers at #Vadnagar's Hatkeshwar Temple. pic.twitter.com/VMMCtSFK7S

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

Watch: Modi bows down while visiting his school in Vadnagar

#WATCH: #Visuals of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he reached his school in #Vadnagar, #Gujarat pic.twitter.com/hIl6DRgI25

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

Modi meets the crowd during roadshow

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his hometown #Vadnagar, #Gujarat; he will address a public meeting here today pic.twitter.com/H4x2gawoRb

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

Two public addresses expected

After addressing a public gathering in his hometown Vadnagar, Narendra Modi is also expected to address a public gathering in Bharuch, a key town in South Gujarat,

Modi to also inaugurate Buddhist centre in North Gujarat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone of the Rs 1,200-crore Devi Ni Mori International Buddhist complex near Shamlaji in Aravalli district, also in North Gujarat, _News18 r_eported.

Modi will be pass by his old school, railway station

According to News18, Prime Minister Narendra Modi would pass by his school and also the old railway station where his father’s tea stall was located. The hoardings also highlight several achievements of Modi’s three-year rule at the Centre.

Recap: Modi takes potshots at Congress

Under attack over the Gujarat model of development, Modi took a swipe at the Congress over economic progress under its governments, saying for them it meant installing a hand pump and asking for votes in return.

Vadnagar all set to welcome Modi

Images courtesy: @BJP4India

PM Modi tweeted last night

I look forward to visiting Vadnagar, my hometown tomorrow morning. This visit will bring back several memories from my childhood.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 7, 2017

Modi’s roadshow still underway

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's roadshow underway in his hometown #Vadnagar amid loud cheers by the crowd #Gujarat pic.twitter.com/bshRsAlrgw

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

Modi’s itinerary after Vadnagar

In the afternoon, he will reach Bharuch and lay the foundation stone for Bhadbhut Barrage to be built over Narmada River. Modi will also flag off the Antyodaya Express between Udhna (Surat, Gujarat) and Jaynagar (Bihar). He will address a public meeting in Bharuch before returning to Delhi.

Recap: Early Diwali for traders, says Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said yesterday’s changes in the GST regime giving relief to small and medium businesses have been hailed across the country as they kindled the festive mood of Diwali a fortnight before it is celebrated.

First visit to Vadnagar after becoming PM

While Modi has visited Gujarat quite often in the last three and a half years, this is prime minister’s first visit to Vadnagar after he took power in May 2014.

A few images from Vadnagar

PM Modi's roadshow in his hometown #Vadnagar #Gujarat pic.twitter.com/8QmEk3wAit

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

Watch: Modi’s roadshow in Vadnagar

Narendra Modi begins his roaddshow in Vadnagar

Vadnagar gears up for Modi’s visit 

Narendra Modi arrives in Vadnagar

#Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in his hometown #Vadnagar, waves to the crowd pic.twitter.com/BuMMMSLwsy

— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2017

Modi in Gujarat for third time in a month

The prime minister is in the poll-bound home state for a third time in less than a month. Last time around, he inaugurated the Sardar Sarovar Dam project. Before that he had welcomed Japan’s Shinzo Abe to his home state during his state visit.

Recap: Modi remembered his childhood while speaking at IIT-Gandhinagar

​

While opening his speech, Modi remembered his childhood days when he sold tea at the railway station in his hometown Vadnagar. “You all are IITians. But I am the one who is just a ’teaian’, a chaiwala” Modi said, evoking laughter from the audience.

PTI

Recap: Modi met his old friend at Dwarka temple

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today met his old friend and long-time RSS pracharak Haribhai Adhunik during his visit to the famous Dwarkadhish Temple. While leaving the temple after offering prayers this morning, Modi walked towards Adhunik upon spotting him standing with some people in the temple courtyard.

Apart from being an RSS worker, Dwarka-resident Adhunik is also a member of the administrative committee of the famous temple.

PTI

Modi to inaugurate a renewed Vadnagar station 

Modi is also scheduled to dedicate the redeveloped Sharmistha Lake to the people and inaugurate other public works, including the facelift of the Vadnagar railway station, where he is once said to have sold tea as a school boy, reports IANS.

Modi to visit Vadnagar today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be visiting his home town of Vadnagar and inaugurate a Rs 500 crore government hospital and a medical college. Modi spent his formative years in Vadnagar before leaving home to pursue a life in public service.

Updates for 8 October 2017 begin

Okha-Bet Dwarka bridge will boost tourism: Modi

Bridge between Okha & Bet Dwarka not only connects people but also connects us with our rich history & culture. It will also boost tourism.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 7, 2017

Narendra Modi’s schedule for tomorrow: PM to visit Vadnagar, Bharuch

On Sunday morning, he will visit his birthplace Vadnagar.

He will then launch the Intensified Mission Indradhanush, to accelerate progress towards the goal of full immunisation coverage.

The mission will provide greater focus on urban areas and other pockets of low immunization coverage, according to a statement.

The prime minister will also distribute e-tablets to health workers to mark the launch of ImTeCHO (Innovative mobile-phone Technology for Community Health Operations).

ImTeCHO is aimed at improving the performance of community health workers ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists) through better supervision, support and motivation for increasing coverage of proven maternal, newborn and child health interventions among resource-poor settings in India.

The same afternoon, the prime minister will reach Bharuch and lay the foundation stone for Bhadbhut Barrage, to be built over the Narmada River.

He will flag off the Antyodaya Express between Udhna (Surat, Gujarat), and Jaynagar (Bihar).

He will unveil plaques to mark the laying of foundation stone, and inauguration of various plants of Gujarat Narmada Fertilizer Corporation.

He will also address a public meeting before returning to Delhi.

Modi on digital literacy and PMGDISHA

Emphasised on the need to bridge the digital divide & further digital literacy. Also elaborated on the importance of PMGDISHA. pic.twitter.com/kZ2GZGo8Ba

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 7, 2017

Recap: No substitute for development, says Modi

“There is no substitute for development. Everybody, even a very poor person, wants development. If you ask any poor person if he wants a house, he would say yes. You cannot give houses to the poor without development,” Modi said.

He was apparently alluding to the campaign mounted by the Congress and other opposition parties, especially on social media, rubbishing the Gujarat model of developmnent under the BJP rule.

The state unit of the BJP has decided to take on the Congress’ aggressive ‘development has gone mad’ campaign with its slogan of ‘I am development’.

Narendra Modi on his visit to IIT Gandhinagar

Had a wonderful interaction with youngsters from IIT Gandhinagar. Talked about vitality of innovation in society. https://t.co/aY7PHKapI0 pic.twitter.com/aNOsHJDHjx

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 7, 2017

Rahul Gandhi mocks ‘Gujarat model of development’, says Himachal Pradesh way ahead

Mocking at the Gujarat model, Gandhi compared the development of Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat on different parameters to claim that the hill state fared better.

Referring to the plight of farmers, Gandhi said that maximum suicides are taking place in the BJP-ruled states.

– PTI

Rahul Gandhi takes a dig at PM Modi, says Himachal Pradesh is way ahead from Gujarat in Job creation pic.twitter.com/UTVeMaYHey

— News18 (@CNNnews18) October 7, 2017

Recap: Modi takes swipe at Congress over economic development

Under attack over the Gujarat model of development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday took a swipe at the Congress over economic progress under its governments, saying that for them, it meant installing a hand pump and asking for votes in return.

Modi, who is on a two-day visit to his poll-bound home state for launching and inaugurating a slew of projects, said there is no substitute for development.

“The definition of development has changed. Earlier, leaders used to install a hand pump and ask for vote in its name for three elections,” Modi said without naming the Congress.

The prime minister was addressing a gathering after laying the foundation stone for a greenfield airport at Hirasar near temple town of Chotila in Surendranagar district.

– PTI

Bharat Solanki, Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee president, slams Modi for appearing on company ads

Unlike now where PM appear on the front pages of news papers for advertisement of Companies like PayTM or Jio. 2/2

— Bharat Solanki (@BharatSolankee) October 7, 2017

Bharat Solanki lashes out at Narendra Modi over remarks on his father

President of Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee and son of former Gujarat chief minister Madhavsinh Solanki, Bharat Solanki slammed Narendra Modi for making distasteful remarks on his father while addressing a rally earlier in the day.

Taking a dig at the Congress, Modi had said, “When Madhavsinh Solankiji was (Gujarat) chief minister, I recall front page advertisements – ‘CM coming to Jamnagar to inaugurate a water tank’. This is how narrow their concept of development was.”

 “We have come a long way since then and we are looking at more all-round and extensive progress,” Modi said.

Today PM Modi made distasteful comment on My Father & Former CM Madhavsinh Solanki, Such behaviour doesn't behove post & dignity of PM 1/n

— Bharat Solanki (@BharatSolankee) October 7, 2017

Would have faced as much criticism as for bullet train if I had given land for IIT close to elections: Modi

“If I had announced my decision to give 400 acres of land to IIT near Sabarmati close to elections, they would have said the same things they are now saying for the bullet train.”

“Today, I am happy that this campus is at an equivalent height in comparison to the other IITs in the country. 70 percent of the faculty here have been trained at premier institutions abroad,” said Modi at IIT Gandhinagar.

Modi promises autonomy to universities if they feature in top 10 universities in world

“We don’t feature in the top 500 universities in the world. The government has thrown a challenge to educational institutions. We has decided that ten private and public universities will be selected. If they feature in top 10 universities in the world, they will be given all the freedom and autonomy to make their own rules and function on their own. The government is ready to invest Rs 100 crore for the endeavour,” he said.

Need-based innovation required, says Modi

“We should create a culture of innovation, which is need-based, instead of just based on knowledge. It will need to be sustainable and get commercial opportunity,” said Narendra Modi at IIT Gandhinagar.

Modi quotes Karl Marx, says work underway to ensure digital literacy

“A few years ago, people used to quote Marx’s ‘haves and have-nots’. the thought is now confined to some placards but we have to ensure that there is no digital divide in the country. Work is underway to spread digital literacy to every part of India, among all age groups and sections of society,” he said.

‘Innovation is the need of the hour’: Modi

“Innovation can be achieved through two ways: One, applying academic knowledge and creating new things and two, by notice your surroundings, its problems and then thinking if you can provide a solution or it. And then looking if this can be turned into a sustainable business model,” says Modi.

‘Academics must not be exam-driven’

Our academics should not be exam driven. The focus should be innovation: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 7, 2017

Must be committed to research and policy development: Modi

Narendra Modi stressed the nations must be “pioneers in all fields of research and policy development” at the IIT Gandhinagar rally.

‘Gujarat only place in the world to have a forensic university’

Rs 1,000 crore given to IITs: Modi

“Rs 1,000 crore fund has given to IITs to boost their global educational standing. I want IITs to be beacons of good education,” says Modi.

Modi on spreading the IIT brand over the world

“I am committed to promoting IIT brand across across the globe,” said Narendra Modi.

Modi hails Aadhaar

Praising the biometric database under Aadhaar, Modi said, “People all over the world are left it wonder over the Aadhaar database we have created.”

You’ll find 80% of people who don’t know how to use their mobiles: Modi

“If there is digital literacy, people will be able to use their expensive phones properly. It will be a value addition,” says Modi.

Modi declares his ‘JAM’ mantra

Jan Dhan, Aadhaar and Mobile phone (JAM) key to digital literacy, says Narendra Modi.

If user friendly technology is introduced then we can take the country on the path of digital literacy: PM Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/7EGvUrV19Y

— ANI (@ANI) October 7, 2017

Digital literacy example of good governance: Modi

We are working to spread digital literacy to every part of India, and to finish the digital divide: PM Modi in Gandhinagar pic.twitter.com/myp6tyn49E

— ANI (@ANI) October 7, 2017

Committed to ending digital divide in India, says Modi

You are IIT-ians, I was a Tea-ian when I was young (I sold tea). On this day, a few years ago, I took oath as CM for the first time. Till then, I had never even been an MLA. I had decided that whatever I will do, I will do to the best of my abilities: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 7, 2017

Govt’s priority to make every village digitally literate: Modi

​Addressing the rally, Narendra Modi said, “New India will be built through technological revolution. Digital literacy is necessary. The government has undertaken to to make every village, every generation digitally literate.”

Learnt spirit of service from people of Gujarat: Modi

“The people of Gujarat taught me spirit of public service,” said Modi at the rally.

Didn’t know anything when I started out: Modi

“When I started, didnt know anything. Promised to work hard. Nation has given me new responsibilities at every stage,” says Narendra Modi.

Watch: Narendra Modi speaking at Gandhinagar, Gujarat

Narendra Modi begins addressing rally at Gandhinagar

Ravi Shankar Prasad speaks at the rally

“We are trying to strengthen the country digitally. The prime minister said he wanted that common Indian should have the government in the hands, the government shouldn’t be in Delhi,” says Ravi Shankar Prasad.

Modi launches Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan

Narendra Modi launched PMGDSA at Gandhinagar and distributed tablets amongst workers.

IIT Gandhinagar will provide quality education: Prakash Javadekar

Union human resources development minister Prakash Javadekar assured IIT Gandhinagar will provide quality education to its students.

IIT #Gandhinagar to give quality education, says HRD Minister @PrakashJavdekar : https://t.co/sO76FWJDF7 pic.twitter.com/MSk8F5NWOf

— Tv9 Gujarati (@tv9gujarati) October 7, 2017

Modi dedicates IIT Gandhinagar to the nation

Narendra Modi dedicated the recently constructed building of IIT Gandhinagar to the country.

Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi dedicates newly constructed building of IIT Gandhinagar to the nation. LIVE at https://t.co/A4umeeYOVL pic.twitter.com/GMVBZnXXPQ

— BJP (@BJP4India) October 7, 2017

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray says Modi govt’s GST changes not a Diwali gift

Refusing to share the euphoria of its ally BJP over the GST relief, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday said the Centre was compelled to bring changes in the tax regime as “arrogant rulers had become helpless before the might of people.”

Thackeray said Diwali was round the corner when people performed ‘Laxmi pujan’. But people had little ‘Laxmi’ (money) left as the Centre “looted” them by imposing more and more taxes, he said.

– PTI

Recap: Modi lays foundation for Okha-Beyt Dwarka bridge

Earlier in the day, Modi laid the foundation stone of a four-lane cable-stayed bridge between Okha and Beyt Dwarka and said it was a link between the old and new Dwarka.

The 2.32 km bridge, including 900 metres of central double span cable-stayed portion, will be constructed at a cost of Rs 962.43 crore.

– PTI

Modi mocks Congress’ idea of development in the past

Taking a dig at the Congress, Modi said, “When Madhavsinh Solankiji was (Gujarat) chief minister, I recall front page advertisements – ‘CM coming to Jamnagar to inaugurate a water tank’. This is how narrow their concept of development was.”

“We have come a long way since then and we are looking at more all-round and extensive progress,” Modi said.

– PTI

Narendra Modi at the foundation stone laying ceremony of a bridge between Okha and Beyt Dwarka in Gujarat 

Image courtesy: PTI

Recap: Modi says Arun Jaitley convinced everyone at GST Council meet

The prime minister said that, based on the information the government had, finance minister Arun Jaitley convinced everyone at the GST Council meet on Saturday.

“I am happy that it has been welcomed in one voice across the country,” Modi said.

When there is trust in the government and honesty is seen behind decisions, then the country joins in despite difficulties, the prime minister said.

“I can experience this and I am thankful to the people of the country for the way they have welcomed our effort to make simple tax simpler,” Modi said.

– PTI

Govt working towards development of ports, fishermen: Modi

The prime minister said his government was working towards port-led development and empowerment of fishermen. Stating that the government wants port-led development, he said the blue economy would further help in India’s progress.

“The Government of India is taking steps towards the empowerment of fishermen. We do not want our fishermen to live in poverty, we want to create more opportunities for them,” he said.

“Kandla Port is seeing unprecedented growth. This is because we devoted resources to improve the port. New lease of life was added to Alang; steps were taken for the welfare of the labourers working there. These are the steps we are taking towards development”, Modi said.

– PTI

Modi’s reforms fail to create jobs

According to a  Wall Street Journal  editorial, Narendra Modi’s first mistake causing a tumble in GDP was his failure to push for labour reforms earlier. Despite measures like demonetisation and GST, Modi and the BJP failed to create jobs.

“Mr. Modi still has a window of opportunity before the next general election to convince businesses and voters that he is serious about jump-starting job creation. The economic slowdown is a warning to the BJP to take a political risk and tackle the labor laws that hold back acche din,” said the WSJ editorial.

Narendra Modi in Gujarat [PHOTOS]

Lawyer Prashant Bhushan criticises timing of GST changes and Modi’s Gujarat visit

So GST concessions yesterday entirely timed&aimed at Gujarat elections & Modi's rally there today. Others will have to await their elections pic.twitter.com/4afIdWdcGh

— Prashant Bhushan (@pbhushan1) October 7, 2017

Narendra Modi being received by Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani on his arrival at Jamnagar

Image Courtesy: PTI

Arun Shourie criticises ‘Gujarat model of development’

BJP leader and former minister Arun Shourie on Friday said he had made a “mistake” by supporting Narendra Modi to be the prime minister.

“I think this is one of our great failures, of our newspapers, of people like me who did not examine the claims about the Gujarat model,” he said, referring to Modi’s claims of Gujarat development when he was chief minister of the state.

“Now we are realising that it (the Gujarat model) never existed in the first place. That it was an event management.

“For example, everybody is surprised about these Gujarat Vibrant Summits. Rs 10 lakh crore have been promised, Rs 15 lakh crore investment promised. In all the nine summits, it took three years for the organisations to find out that out of all those pledges which were announced and proclaimed as great successes what proportion resulted in actual investment. Can anybody guess? Six percent! But it was a great business success.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Dwarkadhish Temple in Gujarat

Image courtesy: PTI

GST changes made to protect business class from red-tape: Modi

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hailed the sweeping changes in the GST to give relief to small and medium businesses, saying his government does not want the country’s business class to get caught in red-tape.

“(We had said)…Wherever there are problems in these three months, as in the areas of management, shortage of technology, problems related to rules, complaints regarding rates, trouble in practical experience of business class, we will address it,” he said.

“We do not want the country’s business class to get caught in red tapism, files, bureaucracy, I will never want this,” Modi said.

Narendra Modi reassures development is his govt’s priority

Modi stressed that his government would continue giving priority to development by enhancing connectivity and took a dig at his critics, especially in the wake of a viral social media campaign “Development has gone crazy”, targeting his government.

Modi said development would continue to be the driving force of his initiatives.

“This generation may have suffered poverty but we would take development to such heights that future generations do not get to see poverty. The world’s attention is being drawn to India. People are coming to invest here. All this will bring opportunities for the people of India.”

Modi accuses previous UPA govt of holding up developments projects in Gujarat

Accusing the previous UPA government at the Centre of stalling development projects in Gujarat, Modi recalled the difficulties the state faced when the Congress ruled the country and he was the state chief minister.

“Despite my best efforts, I could not make them (UPA government) to wake up from their slumber,” said the Prime Minister.

– IANS

Diwali has come 15 days ahead due changes in GST rates: Modi in Dwarka earlier today

“Today, everywhere it is being said that Diwali has come 15 days ahead due to the decisions taken in the GST Council (on Friday). I am happy,” he said at the beginning of his two-day Gujarat visit.

Modi said the decision to relax the GST provisions for small traders, businessmen and exporters was in keeping with the Centre’s promise to review the working of the new tax regime from time-to-time.

“We had said we will study all aspects relating to GST for three months, including the shortcomings. And thus, the decisions were taken with consensus at the GST Council,” he said.

– IANS

Surendranagar will gain lot of benefit from Narmada waters: Modi

“If there is one district that stands to gain maximum from waters of the Narmada it is Surendranagar,” said Narendra Modi at the rally.

Aviation is not just for the rich, says Modi

Aviation cannot be about rich people. We have made aviation affordable and within reach of the lesser privileged: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 7, 2017

Thanks to the Narmada project, drip irrigation can be adopted in Surendranagar: Modi

“If Surendranagar adopts drip irrigation, one cannot imagine the scale of developement and thanks to Narmada, that will happen,” said the prime minister. “Gujarat is a water scarce state but by 2022, make a pledge to revolutionise agriculture by bringing micro-irrigation in agriculture,” Modi asked the people.

There was no aviation policy post independence. We made those policies & took responsibility to connect smallest of places by air: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/DJ31cTh6g5

— ANI (@ANI) October 7, 2017

We needed only 4 percent of farmland for the Rajkot airport: Modi

“We needed to take only 4 percent of land from farmlands for this airport. 96 percent of barren land was taken for this airport,” said Modi, talking about the greenfield airport in Rajkot, which was inaugurated by the prime minister earlier.

“The day is not far when this (Rajkot) airport will have international services,” he said. “This Narmada project will become a sukh-sagar in the future,” he added.

Modi also said that his government helped in the development of dairy industry in Surendranagar.

This govt supplied Narmada’s water in villages: Modi

“Because of Narmada’s water, new employment opportunities will come up in Surendranagar. It will also become an important place for education,” said Modi in Rajkot.

Once, setting up hand-pumps used to be govt's achievement. Today there's a govt which has supplied Narmada's water to villages: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/7lB3Pr3WrB

— ANI (@ANI) October 7, 2017

#WATCH PM Narendra Modi addresses a public meeting in Gujarat's Rajkot https://t.co/3mo97GEPcV pic.twitter.com/1M5SmN1Q4H

— ANI (@ANI) October 7, 2017

Mere handpump earlier was projected as a sign of development: Modi

“Development used to take place earlier too. But then, a politician used to keep talking about a handpump installed in a village for three years,” said Modi. “A mere handpump earlier was projected as a sign of development,” he added.

Why Modi travelling through Saurashtra is important

The prime minister, during his two-day visit, will travel through Saurashtra, which sends the highest number of legislators to the 182-seat Gujarat Assembly.

Earlier, Rahul Gandhi had also gone to Saurashtra region and had targetted the Modi government.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a Gujarat's Chotila pic.twitter.com/dUSStqfw3F

— ANI (@ANI) October 7, 2017

Here are some of the projects/programmes Modi will inaugurate today

Apart from the Okha-Bet Dwarka bridge and the greenfield airport at Rajkot, Modi will lay the foundation stones for six-laning of Ahmedabad Rajkot national highway and four-laning of Rajkot-Morbi state highway.

He will also dedicate a milk processing and packaging plant and a drinking water distribution pipeline for Joravarnagar and Ratanpur area of Surendranagar.

Modi will dedicate a newly constructed building of IIT Gandhinagar and will launch the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA).

Will be in Gujarat today & tomorrow, where I will join important programmes across the state. https://t.co/QkJTt3pKzG

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 7, 2017

I still recall how tough it was for people of Bet Dwarka. Lack of infrastructure meant transportation was tough, people faced difficulties if an emergency came up. We wanted to change this with a push on infrastructure: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/bE57rpOHd6

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 7, 2017

Earlier, UPA govt was indifferent towards Gujarat: Modi

“There were lots of possibilities of development in the tourism sector here, but earlier the UPA government had an indifferent attitude towards Gujarat because of the BJP government in the state… I clearly remember,” Modi said at a public gathering. — PTI

Modi to lay foundation stone for greenfield airport in Rajkot

The prime minister will now go to Hirasar in Rajkot where he will lay the foundation stone for a greenfield airport.

Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his friend Hari Bhai while leaving from Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka pic.twitter.com/we5ChhyIvr

— ANI (@ANI) October 7, 2017

Marine policing is a sector we are looking at very closely. We are modernising marine security apparatus: PM Modi in Dwarka pic.twitter.com/6hZPLfyshR

— ANI (@ANI) October 7, 2017