NRI contributions drive transformation in Gujarat villages under 'Vatan Prem Yojana'

The rural landscape of Gujarat is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by the success of the state government’s ‘Vatan Prem Yojana’. Launched in 2021, the scheme draws into the generosity and emotional ties of non-resident Indians (NRIs) of Gujarati origin, encouraging them to contribute to the development of their native villages through a public-private partnership model.
Under this scheme, villagers have seen significant improvements, especially in education and public amenities. In Khadal village, located in Kheda district, the local administration reported notable progress. According to village sarpanch Phulsinh Zala, donations worth Rs 72 lakh from NRIs have helped build a new school that now provides quality education to nearly 400 students.He added, “Children are now excited about learning, and villagers from nearby areas often visit to see the changes. When they ask how it happened, we tell them it was made possible through the Vatan Prem Yojana.”
Similarly, Uttarsanda village in Kheda district is experiencing a wave of modernization. With a population of about 12,000, the village has ,according to information, received Rs 9 crore in donations from its overseas community. According to local authorities, these funds have been used for the development of schools, crematoriums, bus stands, and water bodies.
The MI Patel English Medium School in Uttarsanda is now equipped with smart classrooms, modern teaching aids, clean drinking water, and CCTV surveillance — all made possible through NRI support.Kaushikbhai Patel, an NRI who contributed to the initiative, reportedly stated, “Although we live abroad, our roots are here. Supporting our village is a way to stay connected and give back.”
Chicago-based Hariharbhai Patel and his relatives were also inspired by the scheme. According to him, they donated Rs 40 lakh for the construction of a new crematorium on their ancestral land in Uttarsanda. “The previous crematorium was named after my father, but we felt it needed better facilities. So we built a new one to serve the community,” he shared.
The Vatan Prem Yojana reflects the spirit of collective progress, where NRIs and local residents come together to build stronger, more self-reliant villages. The model continues to inspire similar efforts across the state, turning emotional bonds into lasting development.