Have We Achieved the Dream of a Truly Progressive and Inclusive India?: CM Vijayan
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Synopsis
On this 79th Independence Day, Kerala's CM Pinarayi Vijayan reflects on the unfulfilled dreams of India's martyrs, emphasizing the need for a united commitment to eradicate poverty, hunger, and discrimination. His call for inclusivity and democracy serves as a reminder of the work still required for a truly progressive India.
Key Takeaways
- India still needs to address poverty and discrimination.
- Democracy must be preserved against divisive forces.
- Unity beyond caste and religion is essential for progress.
- Kerala is striving to become an innovation-driven economy.
- Independence Day serves as a reminder to recommit to our founding values.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 15 (NationPress) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that India has yet to realize the aspirations held dearly by its martyrs and freedom fighters—an India devoid of poverty, hunger, child labour, illiteracy, caste discrimination, religious hatred, denial of livelihood, and unemployment. “The vision cherished by the martyrs and freedom fighters was of an India without poverty, hunger, child labour, illiteracy, caste discrimination, religious hatred, denial of livelihood, or unemployment. The truth is that we have not yet fulfilled those dreams. Independence Day must be a moment to renew our commitment to achieving them,” said Vijayan.
He made these remarks while addressing a grand parade in the state capital during the celebration of the nation’s 79th Independence Day.
Invoking Mahatma Gandhi as a moral guide, he emphasized, “While grand celebrations lit up the cities, he walked into the dark alleys and slums, choosing to be with the most marginalized. His message was clear: celebrations should not blind us to the deeper needs of our society. One of our greatest achievements is that, barring brief interruptions, democracy has endured in India for decades, even as many neighboring countries have slid into military or theocratic rule,” Vijayan remarked.
He further asserted that democracy must never be compromised. “Today, divisive forces are attempting to weaken the idea of India by exploiting caste and religion. We must resist this unitedly, above all differences. Our Constitution enshrines the values of liberty, democracy, secularism, and socialism, not as subjects for debate but as guiding principles to be implemented. This Independence Day, we must rededicate ourselves to these values,” he added.
Vijayan highlighted that Kerala is committed to transforming into a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy.
“This journey combines eradicating extreme poverty with building a prosperous future, ensuring digital literacy, inclusivity, and sustainable development. Above all, unity beyond caste and religion must remain the foundation of the idea of India,” he stated.
Notably, various state Cabinet Ministers took the salute in the other 13 district headquarters of the state, and despite the pouring rain, the parade proceeded as planned.
Point of View
It’s essential to acknowledge the ongoing challenges our nation faces. His emphasis on inclusivity and democracy resonates deeply in today's socio-political climate. The call for unity against divisive forces is crucial, and it’s a reminder that the values enshrined in our Constitution must guide us forward. As we celebrate our independence, let’s commit to making the dreams of our martyrs a reality.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan say about India's progress?
CM Vijayan expressed that India has not yet achieved the aspirations envisioned by its martyrs, particularly regarding poverty, hunger, and discrimination.
How did CM Vijayan reference Mahatma Gandhi during his speech?
He invoked Gandhi as a moral guide, highlighting his commitment to the marginalized and reminding us that celebrations should not obscure societal needs.
What is Kerala's vision for the future?
Kerala aims to transform into a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy, focusing on eradicating extreme poverty while promoting inclusivity and sustainable development.
What values did CM Vijayan emphasize during his address?
He emphasized the values of liberty, democracy, secularism, and socialism as guiding principles that should be upheld and implemented.
How did the Independence Day celebrations proceed in Kerala?
Despite the rain, the Independence Day parade took place across various districts, with state Cabinet Ministers participating in the celebrations.
