(Utkarsh Patel)

In the context of escalating tensions resembling a conflict between the United States and Iran, India’s decision not to assume an active mediatory role is both appropriate and pragmatic. This decision aligns with the core principles of India’s foreign policy and diplomacy, which prioritize national economic interests above all. In the current global environment, as India moves toward becoming a developed nation, it is wise to prioritize national interests rather than getting involved in the disputes of other countries.

The foundation of India’s foreign policy lies in ‘strategic autonomy’ and ‘multi-alignment.’ Under this approach, India maintains balanced relations with all major powers without coming under the influence of any single nation. India’s ties with the United States have reached unprecedented levels, especially in trade, technology, and security sectors. According to 2025–26 data, bilateral trade exceeds $190 billion, with significant contributions from IT services, pharmaceuticals, and energy. On the other hand, India also maintains important energy-related ties with Iran. The Chabahar Port project provides India access to Central Asia and Afghanistan, facilitating trade and connectivity. Had India actively mediated in the U.S.-Iran conflict, it could have strained relations with both sides. By remaining neutral, India has safeguarded its economic and trade stability.

When a nation is progressing rapidly, getting entangled in foreign conflicts can be detrimental. Under the current government, India’s economy is moving swiftly toward becoming the world’s third-largest. GDP growth is above 7%, foreign direct investment (FDI) is increasing, and the manufacturing sector is strengthening through initiatives like ‘Make in India.’ In such a scenario, active involvement in geopolitical conflicts could disrupt economic goals. Taking sides could impact oil imports, leading to inflation and industrial losses. Therefore, prioritizing national interest is the right approach. This strategy also helped India remain neutral during the Russia-Ukraine crisis, benefiting from discounted oil imports.

Working towards global peace and humanity is an integral part of India’s national policy. In the long run, this approach will prove beneficial. By upholding the principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ India advocated for developing nations at the G20. This policy has earned India global respect and opened new avenues for trade and investment. Actively contributing to global peace while not becoming a party to conflicts is the ideal balanced approach that will strengthen India economically.

Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s global acceptance plays a key role in this equation. His personal rapport with world leaders has helped India secure a leading position in strategic forums such as QUAD, I2U2, and IMEC. Engagements with the U.S. have enhanced technology transfer and investments, while ties with Middle Eastern nations have created new opportunities in energy and logistics. This diplomacy ensures that India is not dependent on any one bloc but stands as an independent and strong global partner.

It can be clearly stated that India’s neutrality on the U.S.-Iran issue is not a weakness but a reflection of its mature foreign policy. This approach keeps the nation firmly on its path of economic progress, contributes to global peace, and safeguards humanitarian values. As India advances toward its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, such pragmatic and interest-driven foreign policy will be key to achieving success. This approach will also ensure India’s global respect and economic prosperity.

(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)

(Utkarsh Patel)

Today’s youth thirst for inspiration in their lives. They need someone who says “It is only through service that life becomes meaningful.” Dilipbhai Deshmukh is exactly such an inspiring person. His life is an open book for the youth from which there is much to learn and even more to follow.

Dilipbhai’s journey began as an ordinary volunteer. As a pracharak of the RSS he dedicated his entire life. Leaving behind home family and personal comforts he constantly engaged in the service of society. This journey was not an easy path. It involved renunciation struggle and unwavering commitment. But he never looked back. His footsteps inspired many young people and they too advanced on the path of service. Today they provide successful leadership in various fields.

In the devastating earthquake of Kutch in 2001 Dilipbhai’s contribution can never be forgotten. When the earthquake-affected area was filled only with sorrow and darkness he reached the field directly. Helping people transporting the injured to hospitals distributing relief materials and igniting a ray of hope among the people he did all this relentlessly. His work secured a permanent place in the hearts of the people of Kutch. This incident clearly showed that in times of crisis service is the true path.

Dilipbhai also remained a close associate of Prime Minister Narendra bhai Modi. This relationship is not merely personal but one of shared ideology and action. There was a common spirit of service and nation-building between the two. 

Dilipbhai’s greatest speciality is guiding the youth onto the path of service. He holds the hands of many youths and provides them guidance in the direction of service. Not merely by giving speeches but by setting an example through his own life. When youths come to him he explains to them that “Service is not some task; it is an integral part of life.”

There was also a difficult time in his life. On 10 July 2020 he underwent a liver transplant at the Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Centre (IKDRC) in Ahmedabad. His health improved with the liver received from organ donation and he gained a new life. After this surgery he became a full-time active servant of organ donation awareness. Through the “Angdan Charitable Trust” he spreads awareness across Gujarat and explains to the youth that even after death the organs of the body can give life to others. His experience has taught the youth that even struggle can be transformed into service.

Even today in the year 2026 Dilipbhai’s life remains continuously dedicated to service. There is no pause no expectations only service and service. Today when the youth get lost in mobiles wealth and personal ambitions his life becomes a beacon. He says that “It is only through service that a person truly lives.”

Personalities like Dilipbhai Deshmukh remind us that the true meaning of life lies in service. For the youth he is a fountain of inspiration. Anyone who looks closely at his life will realise that even today in this country there are service-oriented people from whom we can learn a lot. Dilipbhai’s life conveys just one message: serve keep serving and make life meaningful.

(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)

At one time, Congress was not just a political platform but the center of India’s ideology. Great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel were associated with the party. After the formation of Gujarat in 1960, Congress remained in power almost continuously until 1995. Leaders such as Morarji Desai and K. M. Munshi played key roles in the state government. During this period, Congress contributed significantly to social reforms, agriculture, and industrial development. Ahmedabad also hosted AICC sessions that helped shape national politics.

In 1995, Bharatiya Janata Party came to power, marking the beginning of Congress’s decline. Since 1998, BJP has maintained continuous control. Internal conflicts within Congress, unfulfilled promises on social justice, and its inability to align with narratives like Hindutva and development weakened the party. During Narendra Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister (2001–2014), the “Gujarat Model” strengthened BJP’s position across India. Many Congress leaders and workers switched to BJP.

In the 2017 assembly elections, Congress slightly improved its seat count, but in 2022 it was reduced to just 17 seats, while BJP won 156. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Congress secured only one seat in Banaskantha. The main reasons for this decline include internal divisions, demoralized workers, and loss of public support.

In 2025, an AICC session was held in Ahmedabad after 64 years, seen as an attempt to revive the party. Gujarat Congress president Amit Chavda launched the “Jan Aakrosh Yatra” criticizing BJP’s policies, but the ground reality remains tough. During his Gujarat visit in 2025, Rahul Gandhi said that party workers are divided into two groups—one dedicated to public service and another allegedly aligned with BJP. He stated, “Half of the workers are working for BJP.”

Lack of strong leadership, absence of active central guidance, and weak organizational structure have left workers disheartened. Public support has also shifted away from Congress. Though a few experienced senior leaders remain, they largely rely on their past legacy.

Congress’s biggest challenge is to rebuild leadership and regain public trust. If it can strengthen its organization, energize its workers, and reconnect with the people, it may stage a comeback. Experience remains its key asset, but it needs fresh energy and clear leadership to make it effective.

While Congress is unlikely to perform well in the upcoming local body elections, it may still have a chance to recover if it works hard before the 2027 assembly elections.

(Utkarsh Patel)

BJP workers are known for their unique dedication. They are not just members but act as the backbone of the party. From villages to big cities, millions of workers set aside their personal work, businesses, and even family responsibilities to serve the party. During elections, they work day and night at the booth level, going door-to-door to meet voters, listen to their concerns, and try to solve their problems.

 Their dedication goes beyond elections. During crises like COVID-19, earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters, these workers actively participate in relief work. Distributing aid, helping people, and maintaining public trust are part of their daily efforts. Because of such work, the party’s symbol “lotus” has become more than just a symbol—it represents ideology and trust beyond any individual candidate.

In terms of organization, BJP is one of the largest and most well-structured political parties in the world. Its structure operates at three levels: booth, mandal, and district/state. Each booth has a dedicated team that tracks voter lists, their needs, and feedback. The party has also strengthened its network using modern technology. Platforms like the NaMo App allow direct communication with workers. This strong organization ensures that even if candidates change, the party’s vote base remains stable. 

This dedication and organizational strength have led BJP to repeated electoral victories. The results were clearly visible in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections, as well as in various state assembly elections. Due to teamwork and a spirit of service, the party’s reach has expanded to almost every household. In states like Gujarat, the organization is so strong that thousands of workers voluntarily participate in even small events.

From a neutral perspective, this success is driven by the training, dedication, and continuous guidance given to workers. The party shapes their understanding of its ideology and encourages them to remain active and honest in their work. This strength is not limited to one party—it also reflects the unity of Indian democracy. The enthusiasm and discipline of BJP workers serve as an inspiration for other political parties.

In conclusion, the dedication and organizational strength of BJP workers make them stand out. Their working style not only brings electoral success but also inspires social service. It is because of the efforts of millions of such dedicated and often unknown workers that the “lotus” symbol has found a place in the hearts of millions. This model of organization and commitment stands as an example for political parties, leaders, and workers across India.

(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)

(Utkarsh Patel)

When a person begins to live not just for himself but for the entire society, he grows beyond being an individual and becomes an institution. One such inspiring figure is Vallabhbhai Savani, lovingly known as “Bapuji” by the Saurashtra Patidar community.

After achieving success in the diamond and real estate businesses, he used his wealth not just for his family but for the better future of society. This marked the beginning of his remarkable journey of social service.

Vallabhbhai Savani once said that he could not pursue higher education, but instead of treating it as a weakness, he turned it into motivation to help others. At a time when getting admission to good schools in Surat was difficult, he started P.P. Savani School in Varachha in 1987 with just 287 students.

Today, that small beginning has grown into a large educational network. The P.P. Savani Group runs 9 schools and a university established in 2017 with around 14 departments. So far, nearly 1 million students have studied in these institutions, and currently, around 10,000 to 15,000 students are enrolled. These are not just numbers—they represent thousands of families whose futures have been transformed.

Bapuji’s vision goes beyond education. To prepare students for employment, he started a training center in 2003 for competitive exams like GPSC and UPSC. Many students from this center have gone on to become officers such as SPs, collectors, and other government officials.

Understanding that healthcare is as important as education, he also established a hospital, which has served an estimated over 2 million patients. This highlights the scale and impact of his services.

As a fatherly figure, after contributing to education, healthcare, and employment, he also addressed the social need of marriage support. He began organizing mass marriages, especially for orphaned girls. Inspired by him, his son Mahesh Savani has helped arrange marriages for over 5,000 girls.

Some people see Vallabhbhai as a strong and bold personality who gets things done even outside the system if needed. However, it is clear that all his efforts—whether within or outside the system—have ultimately benefited society, not just himself.

He believes that dreams should be planted, not buried. He has not only turned his own dreams into a strong tree but has also helped create a beautiful garden of dreams for millions, which will continue to spread happiness for years to come.

(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)

(Utkarsh Patel)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced in the Lok Sabha that Naxalism has been almost completely eradicated from various parts of the country. Notably, this objective has been achieved even before the pre-determined deadline of March 31, 2026. This is not an ordinary accomplishment—it is a historic victory for the nation.

Amit Shah had repeatedly emphasized that “Naxalism must be eliminated,” and he has now fulfilled that commitment. During nearly 60 years of Congress rule, tribal communities faced neglect—their land, water, and development needs were overlooked. Naxal groups took advantage of this situation to expand their influence. However, after 2014, the BJP government adopted a combined model of strong security measures and accelerated development.

The results are remarkable: the number of Naxal-affected districts has come down significantly from 125 to just 6. Today, these regions are witnessing an atmosphere of peace and stability.

This achievement is not merely symbolic—it represents a transformation in the lives of tribal communities. Areas that once echoed with the sounds of guns and explosions are now seeing rapid development in the form of roads, schools, hospitals, and infrastructure. Tribal citizens are gaining access to their rights and are increasingly becoming part of the country’s mainstream growth.

Under the leadership of Amit Shah, the Ministry of Home Affairs has effectively coordinated security forces with development initiatives. The results of this integrated strategy are now clearly visible. This is not just about one region—it is about strengthening the internal security of the entire nation.

The government led by Narendra Modi had promised that no internal threat would be allowed to hinder India’s progress, and today, that promise is steadily being fulfilled.

(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)

(Utkarsh Patel)

Manharbhai Sanspara, born on October 7, 1969, in Badalpar village of Palitana taluka in Bhavnagar district, completed his education up to higher secondary (HSC). Despite having a modest educational background, he achieved great success in business and social service through strong determination, hard work, and a constant desire to learn.

At the age of 18, in 1986, he moved from his village to Surat and entered the diamond industry. His ability to learn quickly helped him understand the business within just one year. Soon, he began trading diamonds internationally, including deals with Belgium. As the business expanded, he, along with his brothers, founded the “Sahil Star Group” in Surat and Mumbai. Later, they established the “JR Group,” which now operates in more than 15 countries, including Belgium, Hong Kong, Dubai, Taiwan, Thailand, the USA, the UK, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, and Italy. His strong focus on quality has played a key role in achieving global success.

Manharbhai’s innovative mindset led him to explore new fields. In 2005, he entered the real estate sector by starting “JR Developers,” where he developed several commercial, residential, and textile park projects in Surat. Continuing his journey of diversification, he entered the highly competitive food industry in 2010 by founding “Euro India Fresh Foods Limited.” Today, products under the “Euro” brand are exported to many countries in Europe, America, Australia, and the Middle East. He has also developed India’s first high-tech, theme-based food park near Vapi, where visitors can experience the food industry firsthand. The park is designed around Indian culture and nationalism. He is known for maintaining high quality, such as not reusing oil after frying food products.

Recognizing his achievements, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appointed him to the Board of Governors of Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (SVNIT), a national-level institution.

Apart from business, Manharbhai is deeply involved in social service. He serves as a trustee in several social, educational, and healthcare organizations. As the president of the “Late Jivanbhai Raghavjibhai Sanspara Charitable Trust,” he actively supports many welfare activities. He also plays important roles in organizations like Sardardham (South Gujarat Zone), Samast Patidar Samaj Trust, Saurashtra Patel Seva Samaj, Patidar Arogya Trust (Kiran Hospital), Surat Diamond Hospital, and Ramaba Cancer Hospital.

His service goes beyond positions and titles. Whether someone needs medical help, educational support, or encouragement in sports, people reach out to him directly, and he helps selflessly. Notably, he never promotes or publicizes his charitable work, choosing instead to serve quietly and sincerely.

He also remains closely connected to his native village. Every year, he organizes educational support activities for students and provides school bags, textbooks, and essential materials through various trusts, helping empower future generations.

Manharbhai Sanspara is a true example of someone who has successfully balanced business, family, and social responsibility. His simplicity, dedication, innovation, and commitment to quality make him an inspiration. His life shows that real success lies not only in business achievements but also in selfless service to society and living a value-based life.

(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)

(Utkarsh Patel)

Dependence on foreign goods weakens a country’s economy. When a nation relies too much on imports, it affects its independence and self-respect. Ongoing global conflicts and the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic clearly show that adopting locally made products is essential. This is not just a practical need, but also a responsibility toward the nation and a way to ensure a better standard of living for citizens.

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the risks of relying on foreign supplies. There were shortages of essential items like medicines, vaccines, and masks, leading to the loss of many lives. Later, the country had to quickly shift toward local production, and timely government action helped overcome the crisis. Even today, global tensions such as the Russia-Ukraine war and conflicts in the Middle East are disrupting supply chains. Prices of crude oil, food, and industrial raw materials are rising. In such situations, dependence on imports makes a country more vulnerable.

This is why Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) has become more relevant than ever. While the government has introduced policies, their success depends on the active participation of every citizen.

Using local products strengthens the economy. When people buy goods made in their own country, money stays within the nation. This supports small businesses, cottage industries, and startups, and creates more job opportunities, especially for young people. Today, Indian youth are leading in fields like science, AI technology, and innovation. With stronger support for local products, they can achieve success within the country instead of seeking opportunities abroad.

Local adoption also benefits farmers, artisans, and the middle class by increasing income and improving livelihoods. It leads to better health, education, and financial stability for citizens.

True patriotism should be reflected not just in speeches but in everyday actions. Every citizen should think about how their purchasing choices can strengthen the country. Promoting the idea of “Vocal for Local” in rural areas can help boost local markets. The government should also support domestic industries through tax benefits, subsidies, and training, while ensuring corruption is eliminated.

It is important to remember that Mahatma Gandhi promoted the idea of self-reliance and swadeshi during the freedom movement. The same path can guide the nation toward a stronger and self-reliant future today.

To ensure a stable and prosperous future for coming generations, adopting local products is the need of the hour. It will reduce unemployment fears among youth and build confidence in shaping the country’s future.

True patriotism lies in dedication to the nation. By choosing local products and becoming self-reliant, we can ensure a dignified life for every citizen and leave behind a strong legacy for future generations.

(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)

(Utkarsh Patel)

In Gujarat’s textile industry, Rachna Group of Surat is a leading name. The journey that began in 1980 through the efforts of Jayprakash Agarwal (JP) has today transformed into a remarkable success story. His textile-related companies now generate turnovers worth crores, export to more than thirty countries, and provide employment to thousands of families. This achievement is the result of his hard work, foresight, and commitment to quality.

Jayprakash Agarwal’s life is not defined by business success alone. His heart beats equally for social service. He believes that success is meaningful only when it is shared with society, and he actively lives this philosophy through his contributions.

He is a major donor in areas such as education, healthcare, old-age homes, cow protection, religious trusts, women’s safety, and tribal welfare. Beyond financial support, he also dedicates his time as a trustee. Whenever there is a call for public service by the government, he is among the first to contribute. In Surat, he has also extended full support—physically, mentally, and financially—to police and security-related initiatives. In matters concerning the textile industry, he stays away from conflicts and consistently works toward constructive solutions.

He holds deep admiration for Narendra Modi and actively participates in every service initiative inspired by his calls.

Jayprakash Agarwal’s life sends a powerful message to the youth: true success lies not in earning profits, but in giving back to society. Having achieved prosperity in Surat, he has done everything possible to repay the city. He truly deserves to be called a “Nagar Sheth” of Surat—someone whose hands are always open in service to others.

(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)

(Utkarsh Patel)

A remarkable figure from Surat and well known among the city’s business community Jayesh Desai is the founder and chairman of the Rajhans Desai-Jain Group. A visionary entrepreneur he began with a small edible-oil unit in Surat and has built the vast Rajhans empire which today spans multiple sectors and generates a turnover of hundreds of crores. His journey truly embodies the group’s slogan “Wings of Happiness”.

Jayesh Desai was born in the small village of Parvadi in Bhavnagar district into a family of modest means. After completing primary education he moved to the dream city of Mumbai and took up a job. However he soon returned to his village to help his father in the family business. It was during this period that he experienced the harsh realities of life yet he possessed an extraordinary passion for hard work. Eventually he moved to Surat where with limited capital he launched a new venture. From that modest beginning his wings of success have continued to spread without pause.

In 1996 Jayesh Desai established the Rajhans Group with a small edible-oil unit that produced filtered groundnut and cottonseed oil. Thanks to his far-sighted vision and sharp business acumen the group expanded rapidly. Today the Rajhans Group is actively engaged in real estate (Rajhans Realty) cinemas (Rajhans Cinemas with more than 160 screens) hospitality confectionery (Schmitten Chocolates) textiles and several other sectors. The group has completed construction of over 30 million square feet of space and its customers remain highly satisfied.

His achievements have been widely recognised. He has featured in Forbes India’s “Indian Business Legends” (2021) and “India’s 100 Richest” (2022). He has also received numerous prestigious awards including ET Inspiring Leader Gujarat Ratna and Entrepreneur of the Year.

Jayesh Desai’s family life is exceptionally harmonious. He shares a close and affectionate bond with his brother Vijay Desai who is actively involved in the group. The entire family is often seen together at public events. Recently they attended the wedding of Sachin Tendulkar’s son as a united family. Jayesh Desai regards his employees as part of the “Rajhans Family” and treats them accordingly.

He is a patient enthusiastic optimistic and calculated risk-taker. His special talent lies in identifying business opportunities at the right time and implementing them with precision. He firmly believes that it is not the leader alone but teamwork that delivers results. He places customer satisfaction at the centre of everything and gives paramount importance to the principle of “customer happiness through delightful products and services.”

It is particularly noteworthy that Jayesh Desai holds deep respect and devotion for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He and his family have had the honour of meeting the Prime Minister – an experience they describe as “a moment of pride for the entire Rajhans Family.” He fully supports Prime Minister Modi’s vision of development.

By balancing wealth prosperity and achievement with humanity Jayesh Desai’s life message serves as an inspiring example for the youth of Gujarat: with self-confidence hard work calculated courage and a humane approach any goal can be achieved.

(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)

(Utkarsh Patel)

In the city of Surat often called the ‘city of gold’ for its prosperity and dynamism one name stands out prominently in the fields of architecture and interior design: Bankim Dave. He represents the third generation of a respected family legacy in the profession.

His father Tarun Dave was himself a well regarded architect whose practice spanned South Gujarat and Maharashtra. The family tradition was founded by his grandfather Ramanlal Dave who in 1949 established Surat’s first architectural firm, Ramanlal Dave & Sons. Ramanlal Dave is credited with designing the city’s first RCC (reinforced cement concrete) building, marking an important milestone in the region’s modern construction history.

Today Bankim Dave carries this heritage forward with exceptional skill and commitment. After completing his studies he joined his father’s firm in 1985 bringing a new dimension through specialised interior design expertise. With more than 35 years of experience Bankim Dave is also a government approved valuer.

His impressive portfolio includes highend bungalows, commercial complexes, hospitals, openair theatres and industrial buildings all delivered with consistent success. In the realm of luxury residential interiors especially Bankim Dave is recognised for his thoughtful and client-centred approach: he invests time in understanding each client’s lifestyle, family dynamics and personal sentiments, translating them into distinctive, bespoke living spaces. His firm Bankim Dave Architects is widely regarded as one of Surat’s leading architectural practices.

A natural perfectionist Bankim Dave is known for meticulous planning, regular site visits and a steadfast commitment to delivering projects on time and within budget. He maintains a strong interest in innovation and contemporary design trends. An articulate and considered speaker Bankim Dave has been actively involved with the Rotary Club since 1989 consistently maintaining 100% attendance and contribution.

His influence reaches far beyond Surat. As National President of the Institute of Indian Interior Designers (IIID) from 2010 to 2012 Bankim Dave strengthened the organisation’s governance, aligned the educational syllabus with international standards and organised numerous workshops and seminars. He worked diligently to help Indian interior design gain wider global recognition. Bankim Dave has also remained deeply engaged with bodies such as the Asia Pacific Space Designers Alliance (APSDA) and the Council of World Leaders in Interior Design (CWLID). More recently he served as a jury member for WADE Asia 2024 and his work has been honoured with awards including the Hermes and Iris Prizes.

Locally Bankim Dave has taught at Surat’s Sarvajanik College of Engineering and Technology (SCET) where he was greatly appreciated by students.

Bankim Dave does far more than design buildings and interiors; he helps turn people’s dreams and aspirations into reality. Across three generations the Dave family has made a lasting contribution to Surat’s architectural identity something the city can rightly take pride in.

(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)

(Utkarsh Patel)

Gujarat has a society that is mostly connected to the land. In whose life and blood there is a combination of farming culture and devotion. Today, the youth have turned towards urbanization after getting education. The quality and interest in farming are decreasing. Families living in cities are losing interest in village farming. Today, a situation has arisen that development is taking place in every sector in Gujarat, land prices have increased and due to this, the mentality of the youth who have got good education does not need farming and if they get good returns from the land, they will sell it. If the land is sold, the competition to build expensive cars and luxurious houses has increased! And in short, it can be said that it is a decision to spend (lose) lakhs.

But these youth need to understand that our heritage is agriculture and land is our identity and capital as farmers, which should be preserved. If you don't kill it, it will be fine, but at least we can maintain it and get the food grains for the house, what is the harm? We need to think a little positively and if we bring awareness, then life will remain in our village houses and farms.

In today's modern era, in the greed for development and luxury, we are forgetting our original identity. Land is not just wealth, it is a symbol of our existence. Our ancestors have irrigated this land with their sweat and developed the culture of agriculture in it. Today, when the young generation is attracted to urban life and expensive lifestyle, they forget that selling this land is not only a financial loss but a cultural and spiritual loss.

The immediate money received from selling land is used up in a few years. The shine of expensive cars and luxurious houses is fleeting. On the contrary, land becomes more valuable with time and it provides permanent security for our family. In economic downturns or other difficulties, land can be the true refuge. Many families in villages of Gujarat have regretted selling their land because it became impossible to get their land back.

We should appeal to the youth to modernize agriculture instead of giving it up. Agriculture can be made a profitable business with the use of drip irrigation, organic farming, solar technology and good marketing. If educated youth return to the farm, they can bring innovation. Doing so will not only bring economic benefits, but will also preserve family unity, village culture and the environment.

Our identity is from the land. It will remind our children of our heritage. It is essential that we adopt a positive mindset and keep our farms alive. As long as there are farms, the existence and dignity of the farmers of Gujarat will be maintained. This is true development.

(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)