PM Modi Calls for Unity to Preserve Harmony and Tackle Societal Challenges

New Delhi, Dec 24 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon citizens to come together to maintain harmony and address issues such as violence and societal disruptions.

He made these remarks during a Christmas event organized by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) at their headquarters here on Monday, sharing video clips of his speech on his X account the following day.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the teachings of Jesus Christ promote love, harmony, and brotherhood. "We must unite to uphold harmony and confront challenges such as violence and disruptions in society," he stated.

Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, PM Modi noted that India exceeded its own limits to assist numerous nations. "We supplied medicines to various countries around the globe and delivered vaccines to many nations," he remarked.

He highlighted that in the last decade, India has made significant strides in poverty alleviation and economic growth. "We are now empowering the Yuva and Nari Shakti, paving the way for a brighter and more confident future," he added.

By focusing on social welfare and empowerment, the Prime Minister pointed out that India has enacted transformative policies across different sectors. "Our programs, like the PM Awas Yojana and Matsya Sampada Yojana, have greatly enhanced the lives of many people," he noted.

PM Modi underscored the necessity of collaboration to embody the principles taught by Jesus and to strengthen this spirit of unity. He also condemned the recent terror attack at Germany’s Magdeburg Christmas Market, where an SUV rammed into a crowd, resulting in the loss of four women and a nine-year-old child, alongside injuring 205 others, including seven Indians.

The Prime Minister emphasized that human interests should be prioritized alongside national interests, asserting that India’s foreign policy reflects this ethos.

He recalled India’s humanitarian efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, where the nation aided over 150 countries by providing medicines and vaccines. This human-centric approach had a positive impact globally, with nations like Guyana and several island countries expressing heartfelt gratitude.

Additionally, he recounted the evacuation of Indians trapped in conflict zones, stating that no matter where they are or the crises they face, modern India sees it as its duty to ensure the safety of its citizens. "We rescued our nurses stranded in the Gulf countries. It was a comforting moment for me when we safely brought back Father Alexis Prem Kumar from war-torn Afghanistan a decade ago. He had been trapped there for eight months as a hostage… for us, all these missions are not just diplomatic endeavors but an emotional commitment to reunite family members," he explained.

The Prime Minister expressed pride in George Koovakad’s appointment as a Cardinal of the Holy Roman Catholic Church. "It is a proud moment that His Holiness Pope Francis has elevated His Eminence George Koovakad to Cardinal status in the Holy Roman Catholic Church," he remarked.

He highlighted the importance of hope in transforming the world and pointed out India’s accomplishments over the last decade.

PM Modi indicated that 250 million individuals have risen out of poverty and that India’s economy has ascended from the 10th to the 5th largest worldwide.

He lauded the country’s youth for their ambition and drive, while also emphasizing the empowerment of women across various sectors, including entrepreneurship and the armed forces, asserting that no nation can advance without empowering women.

PM Modi also discussed India’s advancements in technology, particularly in mobile and semiconductor manufacturing. He stressed the significance of technology in uplifting the underprivileged and the rapid infrastructure development underway, such as new expressways, rural roads, and metro routes. These efforts, he declared, inspire hope for a promising future for India.

The Prime Minister reiterated the values of compassion and selfless service advocated by Jesus Christ, emphasizing the role of institutions in serving the community. He commended government initiatives like the PM Awas Yojana, which empowers women by constructing homes in their names, and the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, which has boosted women’s representation in Parliament.

PM Modi concluded by reaffirming the significance of collective action in building a developed India. He expressed confidence that with ongoing programs like Swachh Bharat and support for local artisans, India will continue to flourish. "A developed India is our collective ambition, and together, we will accomplish it," he asserted, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a hopeful Jubilee Year.