Destruction, renovation of Somnath a message: PM Modi

Modi was addressing after inaugurating the new Circuit House in Somnath in Gujarat via video conferencing.

"It is our own government that built Babasaheb Memorial in Delhi, the APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial in Rameshwaram.

"Similarly, the places associated with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Shyamji Krishna Varma have been given due stature. Adivasi museums are being built across the country to bring forth the glorious history of our tribal society," the Prime Minister said.

The new Circuit House has been built at a cost of Rs 30 crore and is located near the Somnath temple.

"The circumstances under which the Somnath temple was destroyed, and the circumstances under which it was renovated by Sardar Patelji's efforts, both carry big messages to us," he said, dwelling on the challenging journey of Indian civilization.

He said that about 10 million devotees visit the Somnath temple every year.

When these devotees return from here, they carry with them many new experiences, many new ideas and new thoughts.

He said that tourism plays a major role in the economy of many countries and added that India had infinite possibilities like this in every state and in every field.

"Today, development of tourist centres is not just a part of the government schemes but a campaign of public participation. The country's heritage sites and development of our cultural heritage are great examples of this," he said.

The Prime Minister narrated a virtual Bharat Darshan of spiritual destinations and listed out Somnath, Dwarka, Rann of Kutch and Statue of Unity in Gujarat, places like Ayodhya, Mathura, Kashi, Prayag, Kushinagar and Vindhyachal.

"These places represent our national unity and the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. Today, the country also sees them as a strong source of prosperity. Through their development we can catalyse development of a big area," he said.

The Prime Minister advised against taking a narrow interpretation of his call for ‘vocal for local’ and said that the call includes local tourism.

The need for a new Circuit House at Somnath was felt as the existing government facility was located far away from the temple. The new house is equipped with top-class facilities including suites, VIP and deluxe rooms, conference room and an auditorium hall.