Jamnagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a rousing address to a massive late-night gathering in Jamnagar, celebrating Gujarat’s historic electoral mandate and charting the state’s monumental leap in industrial development. During his speech, the Prime Minister also touched upon the political landscape of West Bengal and the upcoming 75th anniversary of the historic consecration of the Somnath Temple.

From Salt Production to Advanced Manufacturing

Expressing gratitude for the public’s unwavering support across three to four generations, PM Modi attributed the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) enduring success in the state to the dedication and hard work of its grassroots workers. He drew a sharp contrast between Gujarat’s past and its present technological ambitions.

“There was a time when we did not or could not do anything other than salt production,” the Prime Minister remarked. “Today, that same Gujarat is making semiconductor chips, manufacturing metro coaches, building modern railway engines, and is preparing to manufacture airplanes”.

He further praised the state’s foresight in environmental policy, recalling that Gujarat was the first state in India—and the fourth government globally—to establish a dedicated Climate Department, which laid the groundwork for its current leadership in renewable and solar energy.

Emotional Connection with West Bengal

In a significant political pivot, the Prime Minister spoke passionately about the situation in West Bengal. He stated that the political change and struggles in Bengal have resonated deeply across the country, noting that “if Bengal experiences pain, the ache is felt by the people of Gujarat”.

Highlighting the political violence in the eastern state, PM Modi acknowledged the sacrifices of over 300 BJP workers. He expressed strong confidence in his party’s governance model, promising the crowd that the BJP is committed to “filling the 50-year pothole” of Bengal’s decline and setting the state back on a rapid path to development. He sharply criticized opposition parties for relying on negativity and lacking a concrete vision for the aspirations of the modern youth.

Honoring India’s Heritage: Somnath and the 1857 Uprising

Ahead of his scheduled visit to Somnath the following day, the Prime Minister reflected on India’s resilience and its cultural restoration. He reminded the audience of the 1000-year history of destruction the Somnath Temple faced, and the heroism embedded in its survival.

The Prime Minister highlighted that the nation is marking the 75th anniversary of the Somnath Temple’s Pran Pratishtha (consecration). He paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision and praised Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, who attended the consecration ceremony to honor the nation’s roots despite facing severe opposition and criticism.

Furthermore, PM Modi noted the historical significance of the day of his address, May 10th, honoring it as the anniversary of the 1857 First War of Independence.

Recent Local Polls Victory

In the backdrop of the massive local polls victory—where the BJP recently secured a record 692 unopposed seats across local self-government institutions—Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the jubilant crowd in Jamnagar by asking if their “election fatigue” had faded, noting that such a “grand victory” leaves no room for tiredness. He praised the people and the party workers for performing a “miracle” that shattered previous electoral records, stating that the recent mandate even broke the historic records set during the Vidhan Sabha elections. Acknowledging their fresh triumph in the election battle, he playfully remarked that he knew exactly the kind of validation and energy the workers wanted to hear.

The Prime Minister attributed this enduring political dominance to the sheer dedication and hard work of grassroots BJP workers who have consistently fulfilled their responsibilities over the years. He highlighted that the unwavering public support the BJP receives in Gujarat is a profound subject of study, pointing out that three to four generations of voters have continuously showered their blessings on the party. This deep-rooted bond, he emphasized, is the natural result of the party’s commitment to public service and the state’s relentless developmental journey.

A Grand ‘Chhoti Kashi’ Welcome

Before his address, the Prime Minister received a grand cultural welcome in Jamnagar, often referred to as “Chhoti Kashi.” Local leaders, including district in-charge minister Arjunbhai Modhwadia, MLA Rivaba Jadeja, and MP Poonamben Madam, honored PM Modi with traditional Halari turbans, Bandhani scarves, and religious mementos.

Concluding his speech, PM Modi thanked the massive crowd for turning out in large numbers late at night, expressing his deep faith that Gujarat’s future generations will continue to propel the state to new heights. DeshGujarat