Amit Shah Releases Gujarati Edition of Book on UP Governor Anandiben Patel

• Amit Shah unveils Gujarati edition of Chunotiya Mujhe Pasand Hai in Ahmedabad
• Book traces Governor Anandiben Patel’s rise from modest roots to CM and Governor of three states
• Shah praises her lifelong service, discipline and continued work in UP at age 85
• Says Modi has revitalised the Governor’s institution through key social initiatives

GG News Bureau
Ahmedabad, 7th Dec: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Sunday released the Gujarati edition of the book Chunotiya Mujhe Pasand Hai (‘Challenges I Like’) based on the life of Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel. The event, held in Ahmedabad, was attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Governor Anandiben Patel.

Speaking at the launch, Shah said the book vividly captures Anandiben Patel’s journey from her early years in a lower-middle-class family to becoming the first woman Chief Minister of Gujarat, a Member of Parliament and the Governor of three states. He said the narrative demonstrates how leadership, for Anandiben, “was never for a position but for a purpose.”

Shah described her life as an example of unwavering commitment to social welfare, noting that remaining dedicated to one goal — especially one aimed at the betterment of society — is exceptionally rare. He recalled how Anandiben pursued higher education in science at a time when such opportunities for women were scarce, highlighting her courage as the only female student in her hostel.

The Home Minister also reflected on his long association with Anandiben, particularly during the BJP’s organisational expansion in 2014. He said her disciplined approach helped strengthen the booth-level structure that became the backbone of the party’s nationwide growth.

Shah recounted Anandiben’s work as a teacher, social worker, minister, and later as Chief Minister and Governor. He asserted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Governor’s institution has been revitalised and connected to national missions such as TB eradication, sanitation, dropout reduction, natural farming and higher education reforms. Wherever Anandiben served, he said, she implemented these initiatives with the precision and discipline of a teacher, bringing qualitative change to public life.

Citing Uttar Pradesh as an example, Shah noted that Anandiben’s efforts have helped improve educational standards and secure NAAC accreditation for universities, with UP now having the highest number of NAAC A+ institutions.

He also highlighted her pivotal role in the Narmada project, recalling her efficient land acquisition efforts as Revenue Minister — a process that still holds the record for India’s largest land acquisition at the lowest cost. Her contributions, he said, helped ensure that the dam’s height was completed, gates were installed and water reached Kutch and Rajasthan.

Shah said the book contains several moving anecdotes reflecting Anandiben’s determination, compassion and administrative capability. Even at age 85, he added, she continues to work in Uttar Pradesh “with energy that can humble any young person,” inspiring people across the country.

He expressed confidence that the book will motivate millions and serve as a powerful account of leadership built on purpose, discipline and lifelong dedication to society.