NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the environment was now conducive globally and nationally for India’s progress and called upon the youth to draw inspiration from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose‘s life journey and focus on building a united and developed India.
Highlighting Netaji’s emphasis on unity, and the need to sustain it to achieve greatness as a nation, he warned against efforts to divide the country on the basis of caste, language and region, and asked all to “remain vigilant” against forces trying to weaken the nation & its unity.
Addressing the nation on Netaji’s birth anniversary, celebrated as ‘Parakram Diwas‘, Modi urged people to follow Bose’s example of sacrifice while stepping out of comfort zones and aiming for global excellence. “Netaji did not confine himself to his comfort zone… In the same way, we must step out of ours to build a developed India. We must aim for global excellence, focus on efficiency, and choose greatness,” he added.
The PM said Parakram Diwas celebration this year was being held in Cuttack, Netaji’s birthplace, and featured an exhibition showcasing artefacts, books and artworks dedicated to his life.
Highlighting Netaji’s emphasis on unity, Modi said, “Netaji formed the Indian National Army for the country’s freedom, bringing together brave men and women from all regions and communities of the country. Despite their linguistic differences, their sentiments were united. This unity for freedom offers a great lesson for achieving a developed India today. Back then, we needed to unite for self-rule; today, we must stay united for a developed India.”
Earlier, Modi interacted with students in Central Hall of Parliament and discussed India’s goals for 2047 with them. Asked what the nation’s objective should be, a student replied, “To make India a developed nation.” Another student highlighted the significance of 2047 as the centenary of India’s Independence. Yet another quoted Netaji’s iconic words, “give me blood and I promise you freedom”, and linked his leadership to her own goal of reducing India’s carbon footprint through initiatives like electric vehicles.
