Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated 'Garvi Gujarat', the second state Bhawan of the Gujarat government in the national capital.
Modi was accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel and former chief minister Anandiben Patel, who is currently Uttar Pradesh governor, as he inaugurated and walked through the complex built over more than 7,000 sq metres of area at Akbar Road.
Rupani said that this is the "first eco-friendly" state Bhawan in the national capital. It cost Rs 131 crore and was completed three months ahead of the deadline, he added. According to ANI, the cost of the complex was borne by the Gujarat government
The complex is located just opposite the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters on 24, Akbar Road.
The Gujarat Bhawan has been described as a mix of traditional and modern architecture with a rich reflection of the western state's culture.
At the inauguration, Modi addressed the gathering saying, "I am seeing some of you after several years... anyone could have cut the ribbon. but, I am glad that I got this opportunity as I am able to meet you all."
He later said, "There was a time when people, especially those from North India, did not like Gujarati food because they thought it is too sweet. They used to say you put sugar even in bitter gourd. Now everyone asks where do we get good Gujarati food."