The prime minister's statements were made in light of the ongoing debate surrounding a BBC documentary on the 2002 Gujarat riots, which has been prohibited in India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PTI
New Delhi: As the world continues
to closely watch India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance
of unity in the country during a recent rally of the National Cadet Corps (NCC)
at the Cariappa Ground in Delhi Cantonment. With a focus on the nation's youth,
Modi highlighted the digital, startup, and innovation revolutions that are
currently benefiting the country.
As the country faces attempts to sow differences and create divisions, Modi urged caution and emphasized that such efforts will not be successful. He stated, “Desh ko todne ke kai bahane dhoonde jaate hein. Bhaanti, bhaanti ki baatein nikaal kar, Maa Bharti ki santaano ke beech main doodh mein daraar karne ki koshishe ho rahi hein (Several pretexts are being raised to break the country. Several issues are raked up to create divisions among the children of Mother India).” Despite these attempts, Modi reassured that there will never be differences among the people of India.
Modi also highlighted the opportunities for the youth in India, specifically mentioning the private participation in space and defence sectors where startups are making huge strides. He also discussed the reforms in the defence sector, including the manufacturing of assault rifles within the country and fast-paced border infrastructure work that will open a new world of opportunities for the youth. Additionally, Modi highlighted the increasing opportunities for women in India, including their increasing participation in the police and paramilitary forces, recruitment as sailors in the Navy and entry into combat roles in the armed forces.
The prime minister's comments came amidst the ongoing controversy over a banned BBC documentary on the 2002 Gujarat riots. However, Modi praised the NCC cadets who participated in the Republic Day celebrations and assured that the priority for the country will always be the young people who are brimming with energy and enthusiasm.
Modi also released a special Day Cover and a commemorative specially minted coin of Rs 75
denomination, commemorating 75 years of NCC. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, NCC Director General Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh, Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan, Chief of Army Staff Gen Manoj Pande, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Harikumar, Chief of Air Staff VR Chaudhari and Defence Secretary Girdhar Armaane were also in attendance.
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