PUNE: PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday said it was everyone's responsibility to keep India's ancient identity and traditions alive, as it would help strengthen national unity.
"When modern technology and infrastructure are becoming synonymous with a country's development, we are making sure that development and heritage move forward together," he said while inaugurating the renovated "shila" (rock) temple at the Sant Tukaram Maharaj Mandir in Dehu, around 40km from Pune.
Maharashtra deputy CM Ajit Pawar, leader of the opposition Devendra Fadnavis and BJP state chief Chandrakant Patil were present for the event that was attended by a large number of "warkaris" and the temple trustees.
Modi said the Dehu's rock temple would not just be a devotional centre, but would also pave the way for India's cultural future. He said, "Saints such as Tukaram played a very important role in the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a national hero. During the freedom fight, when Veer Savarkar was in jail, he used to sing 'abhangs' of Sant Tukaram by using his handcuffs like the 'chipali' (a musical instrument)."
The PM said the nation had been celebrating "Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav" to mark the 75th year of independence. "We are proud that we are one of the most ancient and living civilizations. The credit goes to the 'Sant parampara' of the country. India is eternal because it is the land of saints." he said.
The PM said the Sant Dnyaneshwar and Sant Tukaram Palkhi marg - the procession routes from Dehu and Alandi in Pune to Pandharpur in Solapur - which are being developed as 4-lane national highways would ensure overall development in the region.
Modi said he had laid the foundation of the two routes a few months ago. The Sant Dnyaneshwar Palkhi Marg will be developed in five stages, while the Sant Tukaram Palkhi Marg will be developed in three stages. "The routes will cover 350km and are estimated to cost Rs11,000 crore," he said.
Modi said the country was moving ahead with the spirit of "sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas, sabka prayas". "Benefits of government schemes are being extended without discriminations. Steps are being taken for women empowerment," he said.
