Citizens as the Driving Force for 'Viksit Bharat 2047': PM Modi

Ahmedabad, Dec 7 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called upon citizens to become the driving force behind the nation’s journey towards the goal of “Viksit Bharat 2047” and announced that next month a “Viksit Bharat Young Leaders’ Dialogue” would be organized to offer the youth a platform for idea exchange.

In a virtual address at the Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav, a grand event celebrating 50 years of dedicated service by volunteers of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan (BAPS) Sanstha, PM Modi emphasized that citizens are actively participating in nation-building initiatives including the Swachh Bharat Mission, natural farming, environmental awareness, educating girls, and tribal welfare.

“I encourage all BAPS volunteers present here to adopt one pledge each year, such as committing one year to chemical-free agriculture, celebrating unity in diversity, combating the drug menace, and revitalizing rivers,” he stated.

He highlighted that the “Ek ped maa ke naam” campaign is globally recognized and that promoting sustainable living will further enhance the nation’s progress towards development.

PM Modi also commended the volunteers for their selfless contributions during crises like the Bhuj earthquake, Kerala floods, Uttarakhand landslides, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

He recounted the story of BAPS volunteers assisting during the Ukraine war, noting, “When Indians were escaping Ukraine to reach Poland amid the conflict, I spoke to a functionary, and your volunteers across Europe stepped up to support our fellow countrymen.”

“Today, BAPS volunteers are transforming the lives of millions globally and empowering those at the very end of the queue,” he remarked.

He credited BAPS for enhancing India’s global goodwill, stating, “In 28 countries, BAPS operates 1,000 temples and 21,000 spiritual centers that promote Indian culture.”

In Abu Dhabi, a BAPS temple was recently inaugurated, showcasing India’s cultural diversity and humanitarian spirit, he noted.

Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s teachings are being disseminated worldwide through the efforts of his volunteers, he added.

“The essence of Swamiji’s mission can be summed up in a couplet: ‘Nadiya na piye kabhi apna jal, vriksha na khaye kabhi apna phal; Apne tan ka man ka, Dhan ka, dujon ko jo de daan, hai voh sachcha insaan, iss Dharti ka bhagwan (The river never drinks its own water, the tree never consumes its own fruit; one who donates his everything to others is the true God on earth),” said PM Modi.

Reflecting on his association with BAPS, PM Modi recalled the day when Swamiji blessed everyone upon the arrival of Narmada water in the Sabarmati river in Ahmedabad.

Saturday’s event was held at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the largest cricket stadium globally, to honor the selfless service and dedication of more than 100,000 volunteers.

The occasion commenced with a tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj on his birth anniversary, celebrating his groundbreaking efforts in nurturing a global community of selfless volunteers.

The event was attended by BAPS spiritual leader Mahant Swami Maharaj and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.

The year-long Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav celebrations began on January 28, 2024, culminating in the grand finale festivities on Saturday in Ahmedabad.

Volunteers from various regions, including the UK, Europe, the USA, Australia, and the Middle East, gathered to partake in this historic celebration.

This marked the first time that the celebration recognized over 100,000 volunteers from India and abroad through captivating performances, storytelling, and retrospective videos that showcased their remarkable contributions and sacrifices for the welfare of countless individuals. The blessings of senior swamis and Mahant Swami Maharaj, along with speeches from stage guests, inspired and enlightened all attendees.

The Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav (1972-2022) acknowledges and honors 50 years of selfless and committed social and spiritual service by thousands of BAPS karyakars (volunteers), young and old. While satsang activities for children, teenagers, youths, and adults began under Yogiji Maharaj in the early 1950s, a formal organizational structure was established in 1972 under the guidance and blessings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj.