Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi is said to be a pro-development CM, unlike some of his other colleagues. He demonstrated his commitment to development yet again by inaugurating a 500MW solar plant in Charanka village of Patan district in Gujarat. The total estimate of the project is in excess of Rs 1,200 crore and promises to change the landscape of this little known village. The region in which this village lies is infamous to being very dry and heated throughout the year. The heat is now going to help people develop and grow. 

"The solar park will usher in a new revolution in this area. We will ensure that the project benefits the local people," DNA quoted Modi as saying. 

Spread over a massive 2,000 hectares, the park would be home to around 500 MW solar power generation capacity. Some of the companies that have started constructing solar power plants are Azure Power, GMR Energy and GSPC Pipavav Power Company. Charanka, in addition to getting this gift for new years, would also be developed as a pilgrimage site, titled Swarnim Surya Tirth (Golden Sun Pilgrimage). A lake would be constructed adjacent to the Sun Temple, which the companies setting shops would be constructing, in order to provide employment to local youth.