New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a gathering in Palghar, issued a heartfelt apology for the recent incident involving the collapse of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharajs statue. In his address, PM Modi emphasized the deep reverence the nation holds for the legendary Maratha king, stating, Chhatrapati Maharaj is not just a ruler for us, he is an idol. I bow at his feet and apologize to him.PM Modi further highlighted the inspiration drawn from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the governments commitment to the development of Maharashtra and, by extension, India. Inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, we are steadfast in our resolve to build a developed Maharashtra and a developed India, he said. The Prime Minister also marked the day as significant in the states progress, as he inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various developmental projects in Palghar, calling it a historic effort.Watch the video here:#WATCH | Palghar, Maharashtra: PM Narendra Modi speaks on the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharajs statue collapse incident in MalvanHe says, ...Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is not just a name for us... today I bow my head and apologise to my god Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Our… pic.twitter.com/JhyamXj91h— ANI (@ANI) August 30, 2024PM Modi criticizes opponentsDuring his speech, PM Modi also took the opportunity to critique his political adversaries. He drew a clear distinction between his governments values and those of the opposition, stating, We are not the kind of people who make frivolous remarks about the great son of Mother India, Veer Savarkar, and repeatedly insult him. We do not trample on the sentiments of patriots.#WATCH | Palghar, Maharashtra: PM Narendra Modi speaks on the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharajs statue collapse incident in MalvanHe says, Those who consider Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as their deity and have been deeply hurt, I bow my head and apologise to them. Our values are… pic.twitter.com/oLaDLDaWbI— ANI (@ANI) August 30, 2024The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the people of Maharashtra are now aware of the true values upheld by his government.PM Modi lays foundation of development projectsAmong the key projects inaugurated was the Vadhavan Port in Palghar, near Dahanu town. This port is poised to become one of Indias largest, significantly enhancing maritime connectivity and promoting global trade. With an estimated cost of Rs 76,220 crore, the Vadhavan Port aims to streamline international shipping routes, reducing both time and expenses. The project is expected to spur regional development and create employment opportunities for the local population.In addition to the Vadhavan Port, PM Modi also laid the foundation for various fisheries projects totaling Rs 757 crore and inaugurated additional fisheries projects worth Rs 417 crore, alongside new safety equipment for fishermen.