The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of Dr. Ambedkar International Centre here today in the presence of Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment and Chairman, Dr. Ambedkar Foundation, Shri Krishan Pal and Shri Shri Vijay Sampla, Ministers of State for Social Justice and Empowerment.
Paying homage to Bharat Ratna Babasaheb Ambedkar, the Prime Minister said that Babasaheb Ambedkar stood for all of humanity, and was, in particular, a ray of hope for the marginalized and downtrodden sections of society. He further added that Babasaheb had created great Constitutional institutions such as the Election Commission and Finance Commission, in which the entire nation had immense faith and confidence even today.
Noting that this project had been conceived in 1992 – more than 20 years ago – the Prime Minister said he was distressed at the delay in the initialization of this project, and emphasized that his Government had resolved to complete the work within 20 months. He urged the concerned departments to ensure a world-class quality of construction.
Speaking on the occasion the Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot said that the life of Dr. Ambedkar is an inspiration to the millions. The contribution of Dr. Ambedkar in social, political and economic sectors is enormous as he is one of the key founders of the Modern India. Shri Ghelot emphasized that this Center would spread awareness about the life and teachings of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the Government has decided to develop all important places related to Dr. Ambedkar’s life – like his birth place at Indore, his residence in London, 26 Alipur Road Delhi where Dadasaheb spent his last days etc- into memorials.
This year marks the 125th Birth Anniversary year of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (14.04.2015 to 14.04.2016). The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has planned a calendar of activities to pay respect to Dr. Ambedkar, the architect of our Constitution.
The four storeyed Centre would be built on an area of 3.25 acres and would have a Public Library, Research & Extension Centre, Media-cum-Interpretation Centre, Convention Centre, two auditoriums and Exhibition on the Life of Dr. Ambedkar.
The life and teachings of Dr. Ambedkar form the pivotal point around which the conceptual base for the ‘Centre’ is developed. The building form and design uses transparency, inclusiveness and symbolism to express the essences of democracy and equality though architecture. Special emphasis has been laid down for incorporation of the persona of Dr. Ambedkar in the structure. The stone clad façade on this modern edifice reflects the strength, firm determination and exemplary resoluteness; the inspiring traits of Dr. Ambedkar’s personality. It is also embedded with the subtle elements of Buddhist Architecture reminding us of the eternal values of compassion, universal brotherhood and equality among all, the corner stone of the philosophy of Dr. Ambedkar.
Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of fraternity finds its eloquent expression in the environment friendliness features of the building by integrating energy efficient principles in the building design.
Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment gave the vote of thanks. Present on the occasion were Union Ministers, Members of Parliament and officials of the Ministry.
