NEW DELHI, Oct 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday called upon all institutions and political parties to stand together in the national interest and fight collectively against forces that threaten the country’s unity and dignity.
Addressing Dussehra celebrations, Modi said the nation must work with a shared purpose and remain united in the face of challenges. He emphasised that all institutions and political parties should rise above differences and work for the country’s welfare.
“May our thoughts be aligned, and may all the institutions of the nation and all political parties stand together for national interest. We must proceed with this spirit and fight together against the enemies of the country,” the Prime Minister said.
Emphasising the importance of self-reliance, Modi said India must trust its own capabilities and resources to overcome challenges. He urged people not to depend on others during difficult times but to recognise their strengths, turn their resolve into action and find solutions through hard work.
“No matter how big the crisis or how difficult the challenge, we must not sit back and depend on others. We must recognise our own strength, have faith in our resources and turn our resolve into power,” he said.
Drawing inspiration from the life of Lord Shri Ram, the Prime Minister said difficulties could not stop a determined journey. He referred to Lord Ram’s efforts to overcome obstacles and achieve seemingly impossible goals through collective strength, public participation and the effective use of available resources.
Modi said the same spirit was needed to achieve the goals of a developed and self-reliant India. He stressed the need to harness the collective strength of the people to fulfil their aspirations and promote public welfare.
Highlighting the ideals of Lord Ram, the Prime Minister said his life offered lessons in truth, righteousness, compassion and social harmony. He said Ram Rajya continued to serve as a model of good governance, where there was no discrimination, everyone received justice and equal opportunities, and the primary purpose of governance was public welfare.
He also stressed the importance of serving the poor and deprived, saying public welfare should remain at the centre of governance.
Referring to India’s cultural heritage, Modi said national self-respect was closely linked to preserving the country’s identity and traditions. He noted that more than 650 ancient artefacts and sculptures had been brought back to India over the past 12 years. He also referred to the inclusion of several Indian sites in UNESCO’s World Heritage List and Diwali in its Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.
The Prime Minister said Vijayadashami symbolised the victory of truth over falsehood and righteousness over unrighteousness. He called upon citizens to uphold the spirit of unity and place the nation above individual and political interests.
Modi also reiterated the vision of “Ram se Rashtra” and “Dev se Desh”, saying the ideals associated with Lord Ram should inspire the country’s journey towards national development and collective welfare.