On October 7, 2001, Narendra Modi took oath as the Chief Minister of Gujarat for the first time. Today, PM Narendra Modi has completed 23 years as head of a government. From Jal Mandir to Swachh Bharat and Vocal for Local, in these 23 years, Modi has taken development to the masses with their participation.
By transforming development into a Jan Andolan (people’s movement), PM Modi has brought about collective action and grassroots participation with the approach of Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation). PM Modi has consistently trusted in the potential of India’s people, believing that genuine progress can only be achieved when citizens are actively engaged.
Jal Mandir
As the Gujarat CM, Modi introduced Jal Mandir Yojana, under which, approximately 1,200 step wells were identified for restoration, highlighting their importance in community water supply systems and groundwater recharge. As Prime Minister, Modi launched Mission Amrit Sarovar, aiming to construct and rejuvenate 75 Amrit Sarovars (ponds) in each district. This mission has successfully led to the construction of over 68,000 Amrit Sarovars, driven by community involvement.
Swachh Bharat Mission
As CM, Modi brought the Nirmal Gujarat initiative, aimed at universal sanitation. By emphasising community engagement, Nirmal Gujarat sought to eliminate open defecation and enhance hygiene in both rural and urban areas. As PM, Modi launched the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) in October 2014, aiming for a clean and open defecation-free India by October 2, 2019, the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. This mission transformed sanitation coverage from 37 per cent in 2014 to 100 per cent today.
Khel Mahakumbh to Khelo India
As Chief Minister, Narendra Modi championed sports through the launch of the Khel Mahakumbh. This initiative aimed to promote sports across all age groups and encourage participation from diverse communities. On the national level, PM Modi launched the Khelo India initiative in 2016. Establishing 302 accredited academies and over 1,000 Khelo India Centres has provided world-class training facilities for aspiring athletes.
‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’
As Chief Minister, Modi launched the Loha Campaign to gather iron for the construction of the Statue of Unity, a grand tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel — the “Iron Man of India” — who played a crucial role in unifying the nation post-independence. This campaign witnessed participation from over 3 lakh villages, collectively contributing an impressive 134.25 metric tons of iron tools and soil samples. The statue now stands tall as a powerful symbol of unity and national pride, reflecting Patel’s enduring legacy.
India now celebrates National Unity Day every October 31, honouring Sardar Patel’s monumental contributions to the country’s unity.
Plant a Tree
As Gujarat CM, PM Modi made Van Mahotsav a widely followed initiative, encouraging citizens to plant trees. He called for families to plant five trees for every girl child’s birth — celebrating her arrival while promoting gender equality and environmental stewardship. The initiative gained a broader canvas with Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, a heartfelt gesture that not only strengthens the maternal bond but also contributes to environmental sustainability.
Upholding the Spirit of the Constitution
As CM, Modi spearheaded the Samvidhan Gaurav Yatra, spearheaded by Narendra Modi, to foster awareness and appreciation of the Indian Constitution among citizens, underscoring the importance of constitutional values. Transitioning into today, one of the significant moves was the official declaration of November 26 as Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas) by the Government of India on November 19, 2015, commemorating the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1949.
The Revival of Khadi
As Gujarat CM, Modi launched an aggressive marketing campaign featuring “Narendra Modi kurtas” as a key attraction, alongside trendy khadi-denim jeans aimed at engaging the youth.
In September 2023, Khadi was showcased as part of India’s commitment to sustainability at the G20 Summit. The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) reported a remarkable turnover of over Rs 1.5 lakh crore (approximately $18 billion) for the first time in the financial year 2023-2024.
Har Ghar Tiranga
In 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign, encouraging every household in India to display the national flag. That year, about 23 crore homes showcased the tricolour, making it a significant symbol of patriotism. The movement has now become a yearly tradition during Independence Day celebrations.
Vocal for Local
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has actively promoted the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative to encourage citizens to buy local products, especially during festivals. This movement aims to boost the “Made in India” brand, highlighting the importance of supporting indigenous industries. During Diwali 2023, this effort resulted in a record Rs 3.75 lakh crore (approximately $45 billion) in sales of Made in India products.
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