NEW DELHI, Jan 23: On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to unite in the quest for a ‘viksit Bharat’ (developed India) and cautioned against forces that aim to undermine the nation’s unity.
Speaking at a ‘Parakram Diwas’ event in Cuttack to honor the birth anniversary of Subhas Chandra Bose, Modi emphasized that the legacy of the revered freedom fighter continues to inspire people today.
In his virtual address, he noted that Bose, affectionately known as Netaji, chose to leave his comfort zone to fight for India’s independence. Modi remarked, “He never succumbed to complacency. Likewise, we must all step beyond our comfort zones to create a viksit Bharat. It is essential that we strive for excellence and prioritize efficiency.”
Modi highlighted Bose’s unwavering dedication to India’s ‘swaraj’ (self-rule) and the collective effort of individuals from diverse backgrounds advocating for the cause. “Now, we must remain united for a developed India,” he stated.
He encouraged people to draw inspiration from Bose’s life in the pursuit of national unity, stating, “We must remain vigilant against those who seek to weaken our nation and disrupt its harmony.”
The Prime Minister also mentioned various initiatives undertaken by his government to honor Bose’s legacy, including renaming islands in the Andaman Islands after him, erecting his statue at India Gate, and designating his birthday as ‘Parakram Diwas.’ He underscored Bose’s pride in India’s cultural heritage.
Modi asserted that rapid development is closely linked to the progress of the people, strengthening armed forces, and holistic development. He noted that over 250 million people have been lifted out of poverty, modern infrastructure is being established, and the strength of the armed forces has significantly increased over the past decade. “India has emerged as a powerful voice on the global stage,” he concluded. (Agencies)
