Bhupendra Patel Inaugurates State Government’s 11th Chintan Shibir at Somnath

Gandhinagar : Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, during the inauguration of the state government’s 11th Chintan Shibir at Somnath, emphasized that this Chintan Shibir acts as a catalyst for advancing Gujarat’s remarkable progress in global growth, providing a platform for inclusive and thoughtful reflection.

The Chief Minister emphasised that public welfare and service are the government’s core principles, with everyone, from the smallest employee to the minister, working relentlessly to achieve these goals. He noted that the three-day Chintan Shibir would serve as a space for collective brainstorming on enhancing and successfully implementing these initiatives. He stated that in a democracy, when representatives, officials, and karma yogis work together with a family spirit, they can achieve great results, as shown by our collective strength during natural disasters such as cyclones. In this context, the Chief Minister remarked that if everyone can unite during times of disaster, then working together with a team spirit for the welfare of the people is the true essence of the Chintan Shibir.

CM also emphasized the importance of contemplation in personal life, encouraging everyone to develop the habit of introspection and reflection at the end of each day on their work. He said that the changes in our speech, behaviour, practices, and work methods resulting from this reflection will benefit both: self and society. Chief Minister urged ministers and officials to come together during the three-day Chintan Shibir and collectively focus on ensuring that the people face no challenges, that no dilemmas arise, and that a system of good governance is firmly established. He encouraged the officers to take ownership of their departmental responsibilities and remain fully committed to serving the public interest. He stressed that the system we have put in place must be sustained through this shibir, ensuring that every person seeking assistance is satisfied. Even if the work cannot be completed, we must respond with humility and discretion, never outright denying help. The Chief Minister also praised the collaboration of all ministers, and officers in advancing the tradition of Chintan Shibir, initiated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to new heights.

In his address to the participants of Chintan Shibir 2024, the Chief Secretary of the state, Shri Raj Kumar, remarked that Chintan Shibir is taking place in Amrit Kaal. He stated that contemplation is a continuous process, and by aligning purpose with work, tasks become more rewarding and results-oriented. The Chief Secretary conveyed his expectations to the officers participating in the Chintan Shibir, saying that Karmayog is the essence of development. To realize Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, it is crucial to bring the insights of the Chintan Shibir to the grassroots level to achieve the goal of Viksit Gujarat under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel. He added that the 11th Chintan Shibir introduces a new aspect of Learning Experiences, and by enhancing local participation, the goal can be achieved with the approach of ‘not as a worker, but as a leader.’

Principal Secretary of the Administrative Reforms Department, Shri Harit Shukla, provided an outline of the three-day Chintan Shibir and warmly welcomed all participants. He emphasized that the Chintan Shibir, initiated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2003, promotes goal-oriented thinking. The past brainstorming sessions have been key in the successful implementation of various schemes in the state today. At the beginning of the 11th Chintan Shibir, Finance Minister Shri Kanubhai Desai, state government ministers, Chief Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister Dr. Hasmukh Adhia, Additional Chief Secretaries, department heads, District Collectors, District Development Officers, and senior officials remained present.

Source: Information Department, Gujarat