Install Statue of Unity replicas in schools, colleges: Gujarat government circular

The Gujarat government has ordered to install replicas of the Statue of Unity (SOU) in educational institutions. The replicas were given to the schools and colleges after they were displayed during the government's Ekta Yatra. The department of home has issued a circular making it mandatory for schools and colleges to install the replicas.

The state government had taken out the Ekta Yatra before and after the inauguration of the SOU by the PM. The purpose of the Yatra was to propagate the government's achievement in constructing the world's tallest statue along with the message of unity.

The circular issued on Wednesday was signed by the additional chief secretary in the home department, AM Tiwari. The department has asked to install the replicas before December 15 – death anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

The circular reads as: "There is no need to erect pedestal for installing replicas in the educational institutions (if not already done) instead, they can be installed in the large hall or any other protected area with elegant protective fencing through a chain or rope."

The schools and colleges have also been asked to invite local MPs, MLAs and representatives of local bodies for the installation programme on December 15, during which they would formally garland the replicas. Collectors have been strictly instructed to make sure that replicas are installed in schools and colleges by December 15.