Haryana’s Cabinet Minister Anil Vij said that true progress of a nation lies in its holistic development and the government has set a target to make the country a developed nation by 2047.
He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi never misses an opportunity to honour the faith and beliefs of the people. Whether it is Ram Mandir, Kashi Vishwanath Temple or other religious places, all are being given due respect, he added.
Vij was addressing people on the occasion of the ‘Somnath Swabhiman Parv’ organised at the historic Kailash Hathi Khana Temple in Ambala Cantonment. During the programme, a live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini’s programme was also organised.
Energy Minister Anil Vij said that true progress of a nation lies in holistic development — strengthening the economy, infrastructure, public facilities, armed forces and preserving places connected with our faith and culture. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is paying attention to all these aspects simultaneously.
Vij shared that he, too, has visited Somnath Temple and offered prayers there. The atmosphere and spiritual peace at the temple provide immense satisfaction and calmness to the mind, he said.
Vij said that the history of Somnath Temple is well known — it was destroyed several times and rebuilt repeatedly. “Invaders like Mahmud Ghazni, Aurangzeb, and other foreign rulers who came to India repeatedly targeted Somnath Temple because it represented India’s faith, prosperity and self-respect. They wanted to attack the nation’s pride and identity, which is why the temple was destroyed time and again.” he said.
He added that when India gained independence in 1947, the Somnath Temple was lying in ruins due to repeated invasions. “Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel then resolved to rebuild the temple in its original grandeur, and with public support, the temple was reconstructed,” he said.
Earlier, Vij offered prayers at Hathi Khana Temple and also visited a special exhibition on “Somnath Swabhiman Parv”, showcasing the history and cultural heritage of the Somnath Temple, along with various aspects related to the nation’s faith and pride.
He also announced a grant of Rs 21,000 each from his discretionary fund to every school that presented cultural performances during the event.
Officials informed that “Somnath Swabhiman Parv” is being celebrated as a year-long national commemorative event from January 11, 2026, to January 11, 2027. A Kalash Yatra was also organised as part of the Somnath Swabhiman Parv celebrations.
Deputy Commissioner Ajay Singh Tomer, SDM Ambala Cantonment Kanika Goyal and a number of BJP leaders attended the event.