Creating new talukas will speed up development: Modi

Modi was speaking after inaugurating development works worth Rs 80 crore in Dang, a tribal district in South Gujarat, ahead of the official Republic Day function here tomorrow.

The two new talukas are Vagai and Subir.

"The 64th Republic Day, which is being celebrated in the district, is a part of the state government's efforts to further integrate the people of Gujarat in the development journey of the state," Modi said.

Saputara, a hill station located in the district has become the apple of everyone's eye (sabki aankhon ka tara, Saputara), he said, adding that the region had seen a rapid development in terms of tourism.

Addressing youths at the Vivekananda Yuva Parishad in Vagai, Modi said Gujarat's Kaushalya Vardhan Kendras, which promote skill development among the youths, have become a role model for the country and government efforts have added strength to the manufacturing sector in the state.

Later, while inaugurating a new Regional Transport Office (RTO) at Vagai in the district, Modi expressed confidence that if given right opportunities, Gujarat youths would shine in every field.

He said that the state government was focusing on strengthening skill development among the youths.

Modi praised the tribals in Dang, saying that unlike in some other tribal parts of the country, a girl child is not killed here and youngsters from tribal communities are excelling in sports.

"There was a time when there was no income in agriculture, but state efforts have changed the scenario," Modi said, adding that tribal farmers are cultivating strawberries now.