Narendra Modi felicitates Anganwadi workers

Around 6,000 women from across the state were present for the distribution of Mata Yashoda award on Saturday, organised jointly by three government departments dealing with women welfare.

The new convention centre of Gujarat University was jam-packed with women. The award was conferred on anganwadi workers. Financial aid was distributed to beneficiaries of Kanya Kelvani Nidhi while sportswomen were felicitated at the event.

The atmosphere at the venue testified how chief minister Narendra Modi was using his 'brand equity' to impress and influence the audience.

Earlier, in the morning, women from across the state, who had turned up for the event, were eagerly waiting to hear from the chief minister. Despite waiting for nearly four hours, they were charged up when the CM entered the hall at 3pm. Soon after completing all formalities, Modi began his speech which was telecast live at all district-level centres where all ministers were supposed to confer similar awards at taluka level.

The audience was moved when Modi showered praises on anganwadi workers. He said, "Earlier a policeman's presence assured people of presence of government. Later, this feeling came when people saw the 108 emergency services. But, now in any village, if someone sees anganwadi workers draped in uniform sarees, they are assured that government is working for the betterment of the society."

Modi said, "While deciding the uniform for the anganwadi workers, I was determined that they should be given better clothes than air hostesses." He added, “If I'm dedicated to the development of Gujarat's people, I will always get your blessings. The shield of 'Matrushakti' (motherly power) is protecting me against all the odds.”