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A memorial for Premchand

VARANASI: Describing the renowned 20th Century litterateur Munshi Premchand as a "leading soldier of freedom struggle," the Union I&B Minister, S. Jaipal Reddy, said the Centre would provide financial assistance for construction of a memorial to him and related projects in his native village Lamhi.

"Premchand was a leading soldier of the country's freedom struggle who ignited the independence movement at mass level by articulating the aspirations of native people, Mr. Reddy said in Lamhi village after laying the foundation stone for the Premchand memorial building, on the occasion of his 125th Birth Anniversary.

Premchand's works would continue to inspire all generations as he had spoken on issues concerning social justice, casteist system and democratic values which would remain relevant for our society forever, Mr. Reddy said adding his ministry would organise various programmes across the country to popularise Premchand's works.

The centre would provide necessary financial help for construction of Premchand memorial building, research centre and a library in Lamhi village where he was born and penned all his famous novels, he said adding that it would also be developed as a tourist destination, he said.

The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Mulayam Singh Yadav, described Premchand as a true exponent of communal harmony and social amity whose works reflected the exploitation of the rural masses by British rulers and inspired them to seek freedom from foreign yoke.

He announced various projects worth over Rs 2 crore for construction of Premchand memorial building, research centre, library, parks and connecting roads in Lamhi village. -- PTI

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