New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the 53rd episode of his monthly radio address, Mann Ki Baat on Sunday began his address by paying homage to the Pulwama terror attack martyrs.
In his first address post the Jaish-e-Mohammad sponsored Pulwama terror attack, wherein 40 CRPF personnel were martyred in south Kashmir on February 14, Prime Minister Narendra Modi majorly spoke of uprisings from India’s past and hoped for citizens to draw inspiration from Indian tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda in this time of difficulty.
“I begin ‘Mann Ki Baat’ today with a heavy heart. 10 days ago, Mother India had to bear loss of many of her valiant sons. People across the nation are agonized and angry. There is a wave of support and condolence towards the martyrs and their families,” the Prime Minister said.
Lauding the valour of Indian armed forces, the PM said, “Our armed forces have always shown unparalleled courage… On one hand, they have displayed impeccable capabilities in restoring peace and on the other, they have retaliated befittingly in the language terrorists understand.”
He urged youngsters to learn and understand the true value of patriotism from the families of the Pulwama martyrs, who even after losing their sons in service to the nation are ready to send more at the border. Then, speaking about the National War Memorial erected in the national capital, the Prime Minister assured that it will be unveiled on February 25, Monday.
REMEMBERING TITANS
Remembering Jamsetji Tata, PM Modi said that Tata and Indian tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda brought glory and honour not just to Jharkhand, but to the entire country. He added, ”The country is indeed grateful for their contribution. Today, if an inspiring personality is required for ably guiding our youth, it certainly is that of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.”
Furtheron, paying tribute to former Prime Minister Moraji Desai, ahead of his birth anniversary on Feburary 29, the PM said, ”A simple, peace loving personality, Morarji bhai was one of the most disciplined leaders. During former PM Desai tenure, 44th constitutional amendment was introduced. This was important because 42nd amendment which was brought during emergency, curtailed powers of Supreme Court and implemented provisions which stood to violate our democratic values was struck down.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi then enlisted people from across the country who have selflessly worked for social welfare.
At the end of his Mann Ki Baat address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished luck to students appearing for the upcoming Class 10 and 12 board examinations and declared that he will not be able to hold Mann Ki Baat for the next two months, due to the general elections.
“In the next two months, we will be busy in the hurly-burly of the general elections. I myself will also be a candidate during this election. In maintaining respect for healthy democratic traditions, the next episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ will be broadcast on the last Sunday of the month of May,” PM announced.