India presents the world's largest statue

India has unveiled the world's largest statue, which has cost $430 million to build.

With an 182m-high facility in the western town of Gujarat, the statue honours Indian leader of independence Sardar Valabbhhai Patel.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that “The statue of Unity” will serve as a major tourist attraction.

Local residents, however, have said this project represents mismanagement of public money and that funds could be spent better.

Mode, who discovered the statue at a grand ceremony, said it would be “sibol to India's integrity”.

Military planes have issued flowers to the statue, which was designed by the Indian sculptor Ram V Sutar.

According to local reports, police have hired thousands of officials to surround the statue area due to violent protests Tuesday.

The statute area has turned to the key point for local farmers who are seeking compensation for the land Government has received for a host of projects, including the land where the statue is located.

The statue of Unity weighs about 67,000 tons and is built to resist winds and earthquakes.

More than 2,000 workers, along with hundreds of other contributors from China, have committed themselves to building the statue.