Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah addressed the 'Dhanyawad Sabha' in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, as chief guest, with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in attendance. The primary announcement was the commencement of the Ambabai Temple corridor construction project, which is being developed at a cost of ₹1,500 crore over more than 28,000 square metres of land. The project involves renovation of the ancient 7th-century Shri Ambabai Temple in Karveer Nagar and construction of a comprehensive temple corridor. During redevelopment, special attention is being given to preserving nearly 41 small and large temples in the vicinity in consultation with the Archaeological Department. The temple complex will be equipped with modern facilities including AI-based security cameras, LED lighting decorations, an outdoor gallery, heritage walkways, light and sound shows, a multipurpose hall, Annachhatra, police station, and a heritage courtyard along with complete pilgrim amenities. The project aims to transform this holy pilgrimage site into a fully developed spiritual destination within six months, which is expected to rekindle devotion among devotees and promote Kolhapur and Maharashtra's cultural heritage.
Shah used the platform to make a significant policy statement on national security, declaring that 'this country is not a dharamshala' and that infiltrators will be identified and deported one by one across the country, with specific mention of completely stopping infiltration from Bengal's borders. The event also served as a celebration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 12-year tenure, which Shah characterized as the longest-serving elected Prime Minister of India. Shah stated these 12 years will be remembered as an era of development, cultural renaissance, a secure India, and enhanced global stature. He highlighted various cultural projects including the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, reconstruction of Kedarnath Dham and Badrinath Dham, gold adornment of Somnath Temple, and Kamakhya corridor. Shah also mentioned achievements across sectors including rural development, urban development, creation of the Cooperation Ministry, PLI Scheme making India a global manufacturing hub, and advancements in semiconductors, quantum engineering, software, data centers, and new-age technologies, specifically noting the successful Chandrayaan-3 Moon landing.