Modi launches campaign to boost rural development on Ambedkar anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched the 'Gram Uday Se Bharat Uday' campaign to promote rural development on the 125th birth anniversary of B.R. Ambedkar from his birth place here and said the late leader fought for equality and dignity in society.

"It is my privilege that I am here, on the birth anniversary of Dr. Ambedkar. I bow to this land. He (Ambedkar) fought against injustice in society. His fight was for equality and dignity," Modi said.

'Gram Uday Se Bharat Uday Abhiyan' (Village Self Governance Campaign) aims to generate nation-wide efforts to increase social harmony across villages, strengthen Panchayati Raj institutions, promote rural development, and foster farmers' progress. It will continue till April 24, the Panchayati Raj Day.

Modi said he was fortunate to be in Mhow, the birthplace of Ambedkar.

"Baba Saheb Ambedkar was the second name of determination. He never drifted away from his path of working for the Dalits and backwards despite facing insults. With his treasure of wisdom and degrees from some of the world's famous universities, he had several opportunities for his own growth but he left them due to his ambition to do something for the society," Modi said.

Modi laid stress for development of villages for the growth of the country and said the focus of this year's union budget was on villages and farmers. "All our development initiatives have to be centred around rural development."

Modi also laid stress on digital connectivity in villages. "This is difficult to do, but we need to make a start somewhere."

Modi said he wanted the incomes of farmers to double in the next few years. "Purchasing power of people in rural India has to increase and this will power India's economy. Give our farmers adequate water and see the wonders our farmers can do."

He complimented Madhya Pradesh Chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan "for chalking out a comprehensive road map to double the income of farmers by 2022 in the state."

Modi said Panchayati Raj institutions have to be made stronger and more vibrant.