Kolhapur, Jun 20: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 12 years in office would be remembered as a defining chapter in the history of independent India, crediting him with transforming the nation and enhancing its global stature.
Speaking after launching the ₹500-crore Ambabai Temple Corridor project in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Shah said the chapter on Modi’s leadership would be “written in golden letters” for creating a resurgent India and strengthening the country’s international standing.
He said several milestones once considered impossible had been achieved under Modi’s leadership, including the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, redevelopment of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, restoration of Kedarnath and Badrinath, and conservation work at Somnath and Kamakhya temples.
Highlighting the government’s vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” (Development with Heritage), Shah said India is witnessing a cultural renaissance that combines infrastructure development with the preservation of its civilisational and religious heritage.
He said the Ambabai Temple Corridor project would modernise the historic temple complex with AI-based security systems, heritage galleries, LED lighting, a light-and-sound show, and improved facilities for devotees, while preserving its historical significance.
Shah also praised Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, semiconductors, quantum technology, software, and space exploration, citing the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission as a symbol of India’s growing scientific achievements.
Referring to the BJP’s electoral gains in West Bengal, Shah thanked the people of the state for their support and reiterated the government’s commitment to identifying and taking action against illegal infiltrators. He also criticised opposition parties over their stand on the issue.
The Home Minister was in Kolhapur to lay the foundation stone for the Pradakshina Marg and inaugurate various conservation and development projects under the Mahalaxmi Temple Development Master Plan, aimed at enhancing religious tourism and preserving the region’s cultural heritage.
