DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, India is steadily progressing towards becoming a developed nation. Emphasizing the importance of drawing inspiration from the life and values of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar, he said that like Ahilyabai, we must commit ourselves to justice, development, and the preservation of our rich cultural heritage.

Marking the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar, he called upon citizens to take a collective pledge to serve society, promote education, and ensure equal rights for daughters.

The Chief Minister was addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest at the state-level function held to commemorate the 300th birth anniversary of Mateshwari Ahilyabai Holkar at the Grain Market in Pipli, Kurukshetra, today.

On this occasion, the Pal Gadariya community honored the Chief Minister by tying a traditional turban on him and presenting a shawl and a memento. Earlier, the Chief Minister paid floral tributes to the portrait of Mateshwari Ahilyabai Holkar.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister announced that a museum in the name of Mateshwari Ahilyabai Holkar will be constructed on two acres of land, with the aim of educating and inspiring the younger generation about her life and legacy. Additionally, with the consent of the Pal Gadariya community, a grand entrance gate will be built in her name in a village or city.

The Chief Minister also announced a grant of Rs 31 lakh from his discretionary fund to the Pal Gadariya Samaj Dharamshala in Kurukshetra. Furthermore, he announced contributions of Rs 11 lakh each on behalf of Cabinet Minister Sh Krishan Lal Panwar, Sh Mahipal Dhanda, Sh Ranbir Gangwa, Sh Shyam Singh Rana, Member of Parliament Sh Naveen Jindal, and Rajya Sabha MP Sh Ramchandra Jangra.

Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini, while addressing the gathering, said that saints, mahatmas, gurus, and great leaders are not only our invaluable heritage but also a source of constant inspiration. It is our collective responsibility to preserve and promote their legacy.

To this end, the state government is actively disseminating their teachings and messages through the 'Sant-Mahapurush Vichar Samman Evam Prasar Yojana'. This event has also been organized as part of that initiative.

He said that Mateshwari Ahilyabai Holkar was born on May 31, 1725, in Chaundi village of Maharashtra. At a time when women were largely denied access to governance, education, and personal freedom, Ahilyabai defied societal norms and emerged as a shining embodiment of Nari Shakti (women's power). She proved that when a woman remains steadfast in her duty, she has the power to transform an entire era.

Ahilyabai Holkar was not just a ruler, she was a living example of "Nari Shakti" who gave tax relief to farmers, promoted trade, and ensured equal opportunities for all sections of society. Following the path she showed, Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi is now working with determination to realize the vision of a developed India by the year 2047.

He said that today, as India proudly showcases its cultural identity to the world, it is important to remember the unique role Lokmata Ahilyabai played in preserving that heritage. Ahilyabai undertook the remarkable task of rebuilding nearly every major pilgrimage site in the country whether it was the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Somnath, Mathura, Ayodhya, Badrinath, or Rameswaram.

She not only constructed temples but also revitalized religion, culture, and faith across the nation. In recognition of her immense contributions, her statue was installed at Kashi Vishwanath in 2019 by the gracious hands of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi. The Chief Minister said that Ahilyabai's life demonstrates that a woman embodies not only tenderness but also determination and leadership. She was a perfect blend of love and valour.

He added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, the country is rapidly progressing on the path of development, with our daughters making significant contributions in every field. Condemning the Pahalgam attack, the Chief Minister stated that terrorists had cruelly targeted the family members of our sisters and daughters in front of their eyes.

Following this incident, Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi resolved that the time had come to wipe out the remaining ground of terrorism. Acting on this resolve, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, successfully destroying terrorist hideouts, with brave daughters Vyomika Singh and Sofia Qureshi playing vital roles.

He said that following the path shown by Ahilyabai, the state government is committed to ensuring the equal development of all sections and regions with the spirit of Haryana Ek-Haryanvi Ek. With the aim that no poor person goes hungry, the government provides free ration every month to 49 lakh BPL families across the state.

Additionally, under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, approximately 15 lakh LPG connections have been provided free of cost to women from economically weaker families. More than 17 lakh BPL and AAY families in Haryana receive gas cylinders at a subsidized rate of Rs 500.

(editor@dailyworld.in)