Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Ahmedabad on September 16

AHMEDABAD: Gujarat government along with state BJP leaders have begun preparations to give a grand welcome to Prime Minister Narendra Modi who will land at Ahmedabad airport on September 16 afternoon, it was announced here today.

"Since Narendrabhai Modi is coming to Gujarat for the first time after becoming Prime Minister, Gujarat government will greet him as per protocol. Modi will be also welcomed by party leaders," Gujarat minister and state government spokesperson Nitin Patel said.

Modi's arrival on September 16 would coincide with the declaration of election results of bypolls in nine assembly and one Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat. Expecting victory from these seats, the BJP plans to arrange a grand function in Modi's presence.

"Party workers will gift BJP's win to Modi on that day. Thus, our party is planning to arrange a grand function on that day. However, nothing has been finalised yet," BJP media convener Harshad Patel said.

On September 17, which is Modi's birthday, the Gujarat government has organised a gala function at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar.

"On 17th September, which is Modi's birthday, the Gujarat government has organised a programme to aid needy citizens in the morning. We have requested our PM to remain present at the function," Patel said.

Later during the afternoon of September 17, Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to land at Ahmedabad airport, as announced earlier by Gujarat Chief Minister Anandi Patel.