CM Shri Bhupendra Patel inaugurates Shri Swaminarayan Gurukul in Dabhoi

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel stated clearly that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who considers education the most powerful tool for development, has taken strong steps through the New Education Policy to shape India’s future citizens with both modern knowledge and cultural values. He emphasized that in the Indian education system, values are as essential as knowledge.

Recalling ancient traditions, the Chief Minister said that in the gurukul system, princes used to receive both education and initiation from sages. Lord Rama studied under Rishi Vashistha and Vishwamitra, while Lord Krishna acquired knowledge from Rishi Sandipani. That same gurukul culture is now being revived through modern mediums, blending age-old traditions with contemporary advancements.

The Chief Minister inaugurated the newly constructed Swaminarayan Gurukul in Dabhoi, Vadodara district, and launched its academic sessions. He was joined by various saints, spiritual leaders, and dignitaries. He remarked that such institutions are not only imparting academic education but also instilling values and life-skills training, thereby linking the traditional gurukul ethos with modernity.

He added that the establishment of this modern school campus equipped with hostel facilities and advanced technology marks the beginning of a new journey in the education sector. This gurukul, founded by the Swaminarayan organization, will prepare a generation rooted in patriotism, values, and spirituality, he expressed confidently.

Highlighting the Prime Minister’s vision under the New Education Policy, he said that efforts are being made to continue the legacy of ancient universities like Nalanda and Takshashila, with the establishment of sector-specific universities. For the first time, a mother-tongue based education system linked to Indian tradition is being implemented.

Under the Prime Minister’s guidance, the state government is improving the quality of education through the Gunotsav campaign, and paying special attention to girls’ education via initiatives like Kanya Kelavani and School Enrollment Drives. The Chief Minister stressed this commitment.

He proudly mentioned that initiatives like Namo Lakshmi and Namo Saraswati have encouraged students toward science education. Within just one year, there has been a 27% increase in science stream enrollments. Through the Mission School of Excellence and Vidya Samiksha Kendra, both the standard and quality of education have improved.

PM Modi has pledged to transform India into a developed nation by 2047, and to achieve that vision, the Chief Minister called upon everyone to help build an “Amrit Generation” — educated, value-driven, and determined youth.

He also acknowledged the significant role played by institutions like Swaminarayan Gurukul in contributing to environmental campaigns launched by the Prime Minister, such as “One Tree for One Life” and Single-Use Plastic Elimination.

At the start of the event, Chief Minister Patel congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the brave soldiers of the Indian Army for the remarkable success of Operation Sindoor, which has given a new direction to India’s fight against terrorism. He said the Prime Minister’s leadership has set an example of national defense that will inspire future generations.

MLA Shailesh Mehta noted that seeing the nature and needs of Darbhavati town, such a values-based educational institution was a long-felt necessity. Under the leadership of Swami K.P., Swami Nautam, and Bapu Swami, the Gurukul’s inauguration marks not just the opening of a building, but the beginning of a new chapter in Darbhavati’s future.

He praised the Chief Minister’s affection and support for Darbhavati through special grants and development schemes, calling his contribution invaluable and expressing deep gratitude.

Bhavnagar MLA Jitubhai Vaghani remarked that while institutions run by businesspeople often focus on profit, those run by saints emphasize service and values, which society has witnessed over time.

He said the Swaminarayan Gurukul is more than an academic institution; it is a temple of values. Modern, tech-equipped, and rooted in culture, such institutions teach not just academics but also life skills and ethics. Students here are not just educated, but also shaped in Indian ethos, moral character, and national pride—this, he said, is the true success of a gurukul.

Swami Nautam presented an outline of the Gurukul’s activities and mission.

On the occasion, prominent spiritual leaders like Swami K.P., Swami Harijivan, Swami Nirlepswarupdas, Swami Vishnuswarupdas, and Mohandasji Maharaj were present, along with District Panchayat President Gayatriba Mahida, MP Jasubhai Rathwa, MLA D.K. Swami, Deputy District Panchayat Chief Ashwinbhai Patel, community leader Rasikbhai Prajapati, and a large number of citizens.