The majestic Mahatma Mandir taking form at the state capital here is set to become a source of inspiration for word peace and global welfare, Gujarat's Chief Minister Shri Narmadabhai Modi said here today.

Addressing the sarpanchs who had assembled here from about 2,000 villages far and near, he said that Mahatma Gandhi belonged to the world, and for all time to come. The project taken up during the state's golden jubilee year is to make the Mahatma's messages and his quest for truth immemorial.

He said the 'abhishek' of the Mandir with the water and soil in 'kalash' brought from all the villages and towns of Gujarat symbolized the willpower and capacity of the people to build a new Gujarat. Today was the sixth day of the 'abhishek'.

Shri Modi exuded confidence that every village and town of the state are in for a facelift, and they would make long strides and break new records in various fields of development.

Speaking on the occasion, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Shri Fakirbhai Vaghela said Gujaratis living in other states and abroad would also come forward with 'kalash' full of soil and water of respective places, to give it a truly global touch. He gave details of various state government schemes under implementation such as Mahakumbh, Garib Kalyan Mela, Swarnm Gujarat and Krishi Mahotsav, to cover all sections of the society.

Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Shri Narottam Patel said the Mahatma Mandir is not just a state government project, but also represent people's participation. He regretted that some vested interests continue to criticize the state's development despite the state making big leaps.

Prominent among those present at today's 'abhishek' included Ministers of State Shri Saurabhbhai Patel, Shri Parbatbhai Patel, Shri Kiritsinh Rana, Golden Jubilee Celebration Committee Chairman Shri I.K. Jadeja, besides senior officers.