Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation in his signature Mann Ki Baat series, on 27 October 2019.
His address to the nation comes a day after Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi accused the government of looting farmers and working for the interests of “a few middlemen and hoarders.”
Draw Foreigners to India Through Our Festivals
“What better way to celebrate Diwali than praying for positivity all around?” The PM began the latest edition of Mann Ki Baat with the question. He went on to say that Diwali is now celebrated not just in India, but in many countries the world over.
He said that Indians outside the country have an important role to draw people to India by highlighting India’s festivals.
Importance of ‘Naari Shakti’
The prime minister then highlighted the importance of empowering women and how India draws its strength from the strength of its women. He added that even India’s mythological figures were propelled forward by the grace of the women in their lives, be it their daughters or wives.
He also highlighted the importance of bringing forward the stories of women’s success and highlighting them on social media, as inspiration to others.
On 550th Gurpurab, Look to Guru Nanak For Guidance
PM Modi then spoke of the importance of Gurpurab, or Guru Nanak Prakash Utsav, which falls on 12 November. He added that this was the 550th year of Gurpurab and that India should look to Guru Nanak for lessons on how to live.
He spoke about the life of service that Guru Nanak practiced, and spoke of the Sikh community across India and the importance of the day.
He said that Guru Nanak’s life of service serves as an importance guiding lesson for all Indians.
On the Importance of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and National Unity Day
The prime minister went on to speak about National Unity Day, which is celebrated on 31 October. He spoke about the significance of the day, which is celebrated in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birthday, and the leader’s role in uniting India.
He also said that the Statue of Unity, of Vallabhbhai Patel, unites India. He then spoke about the facilities at the Statue of Unity and added that the statue has created several jobs.
He added that the Statue of Unity has turned Gujarat’s Kevadia region, where it’s built, into a major tourist spot in just one year.
He also urged Indians to take out some time, and go visit the statue of unity.
He also urged Indians to travel to at least 15 tourist destinations with their families this year. He mentioned a ‘Run for Unity’ event on 31 October.
‘Run For Unity Will Unite India’
The PM then spoke about the ‘Run for Unity’ event on 31 October, saying it would bring Indians together across the country. He also spoke about where Indians can go to register for the ‘Run for Unity’ event.
He emphasised that the ‘Run for Unity’ would not just unite people, but it would help with fitness.
Modi Pays Tribute to Indira Gandhi
PM Modi also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who was assassinated on 31 October 1984.
After his tribute to Indira Gandhi, the prime minister wrapped up his speech with a mention of the ‘Clean India’ initiative, saying that it had reached across the country, including the icy caps of Siachen.
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