Mumbai : The state government is planning to develop the Dr BR Ambedkar’s house in London as a multi-faceted memorial centre instead of developing it just as a tourist attraction.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the memorial in a simple programme on Wednesday (November 11). Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis would also be present for the inauguration.
When asked about the details of the function, Fadnavis said that the function would be a very simple one, as public programmes are prohibited in the locality where the house is situated.
“Though we are not able to organise a big programme on the inauguration, we have taken into consideration suggestions from everybody, including the Opposition parties,” he said, adding that the state plans to develop it into a centre that would provide inspiration to all the Indian students studying abroad.
The state government is planning to immediately initiate steps towards implementing one of the important suggestions made by RPI leader Ramdas Athawale to provide scholarships to students and support them through this centre in London, Fadnavis added.
“Though the house is three-storeyed, it is very small. At present, we are planning to place some artefacts and also make Dr Ambedkar’s books available for display at the memorial. Prime Minister would cut a ribbon, light a lamp and then take a round to see all these things. An idea of converting it into a hostel had come up. Instead, we intend to support Indian students by converting it into a centre that would cater to their needs,” he said.
He also mentioned that apart from the Central government, several state governments would also provide scholarships to students from Dalit, tribal and backward communities for studying abroad and encourage youngsters from Dalit community.
“We shall also encourage talented girls and boys from Dalit communities and try to turn the memorial into a centre of inspiration for all these students,” Fadnavis said.
