Amit Shah to Launch Major Development Projects in Vadnagar, Gujarat
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah will be in Vadnagar, a historic city in Gujarat’s Mehsana district, to inaugurate a series of significant development projects aimed at transforming the city into a major cultural and tourism hub. With an estimated cost running into crores, these initiatives focus on preserving Vadnagar’s rich heritage while improving infrastructure and promoting tourism.
Vadnagar, with a history spanning over 2,500 years, has always been a melting pot of diverse cultures. It has witnessed the rule of multiple dynasties and stood as a vital trade centre along ancient routes. Notably, Vadnagar is the birthplace of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose vision has highlighted the city’s heritage potential. His efforts have brought Vadnagar into the spotlight, and the city is now poised for rapid growth as a tourist destination. Under the leadership of Amit Shah and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the state government is focusing on the preservation and development of Vadnagar’s cultural landmarks. Shah’s visit will mark the inauguration of the Archaeological Experience Museum, India’s first such facility, which showcases the city’s deep-rooted cultural history. Built at a cost of Rs 298 crore, this four-story structure spans 12,500 square metres and will house over 5,000 artefacts, ranging from sculptures to inscriptions, reflecting Vadnagar’s diverse heritage.
The museum is more than just a static display; it offers an interactive experience with audio-visual films and exhibits, immersing visitors in the city’s fascinating past. A permanent shed will also showcase artefacts from ongoing archaeological excavations in the city. This development represents a step forward in making Vadnagar a focal point for cultural tourism in Gujarat. Alongside the museum, Shah will inaugurate Prerna Sankul, a Rs 72 crore project dedicated to preserving the historic primary school where Narendra Modi received his early education. The school, established in 1888, has been renovated by the Archaeological Survey of India to combine modern educational practices with moral teachings. It serves as an inspiring landmark for students, with a curriculum developed by IIT Gandhinagar, offering value-based education.
Amit Shah’s visit will also include the inauguration of a Sports Complex in Vadnagar, built at a cost of Rs 33.5 crore. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to foster new athletic talent, providing world-class amenities for various sports, including an 8-lane, 400-metre synthetic athletic track, an astroturf football field, and dedicated spaces for kabaddi, kho-kho, and volleyball. The complex aims to identify and nurture emerging sports talent, with a special emphasis on para-sports programmes for Divyang athletes. A hostel for 200 students (100 boys and 100 girls) is also under construction, providing athletes with accommodation and the necessary resources to excel. This modern sports infrastructure is expected to benefit the local community by encouraging a strong sports culture and creating opportunities for youth to pursue their athletic dreams.
Amit Shah will also review ongoing efforts to preserve Vadnagar’s heritage. The development plan includes the conservation of four key complexes, including façade restoration, building repurposing, and road construction. These upgrades aim to enhance the pedestrian experience with improved signage, street furniture, and the creation of a heritage trail, allowing visitors to explore Vadnagar’s rich cultural tapestry. Prerna Sankul will act as a central landmark, with all heritage routes converging here. In addition to these landmark projects, Shah will also visit the Hatkeshwar Temple, a 17th-century temple dedicated to Hatkeshwar Mahadev. This visit highlights the importance of preserving Vadnagar’s spiritual and architectural heritage, further reinforcing its status as a cultural gem.
Vadnagar’s transformation is an example of how heritage can be preserved while also fostering growth. With the inauguration of these key projects, including the Archaeological Museum, Prerna Sankul, and the Sports Complex, Vadnagar is set to become a major hub for both cultural tourism and local talent development. Amit Shah’s visit marks a pivotal moment in the city’s evolution, as it seeks to celebrate its rich history while embracing the future. The city’s new infrastructure projects will not only attract tourists but also inspire a new generation of students and athletes, shaping Vadnagar into a prosperous and dynamic cultural destination.
