New Delhi, Jan 23 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the Parakram Diwas celebrations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands via video link on Friday. He emphasized that January 23 is the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a figure whose courage continues to inspire admiration and respect among the populace.

During his speech, PM Modi remarked that Parakram Diwas has transformed into a significant occasion for national pride in recent years. He depicted Netaji as not merely a symbol of freedom but also as a visionary leader who conceptualized a modern India grounded in its civilizational values.

The Prime Minister stressed the importance of imparting Netaji’s principles to the youth. He highlighted that initiatives like a museum at the Red Fort, a statue near India Gate, tributes to the Indian National Army (INA) during Republic Day parades, and disaster management awards in Netaji’s honor are all designed to celebrate his legacy and motivate young generations.

PM Modi mentioned that Netaji believed a nation must be robust, as weakness obstructs progress.

"In this century, India is emerging as a determined power," he stated, using Operation Sindoor as an illustration of India’s resolute response to threats.

He noted that defense self-reliance is progressing, with the country shifting from reliance on imports to boosting exports, which have surpassed Rs 23,000 crore.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged indigenous missiles like BrahMos gaining global acclaim, asserting that the armed forces are being fortified through domestic capabilities.

With a united populace of 1.4 billion, India is pursuing self-reliance through Atmanirbhar Bharat and Swadeshi values.

He also pointed out the significance of key national dates: Parakram Diwas on the 23rd, National Voters' Day on the 25th, Republic Day on the 26th, Beating Retreat on the 29th, and Mahatma Gandhi's death anniversary on the 30th, calling it a new tradition to honor the Republic's essence.

On this occasion, the Prime Minister extended his greetings to the citizens.

Highlighting the upcoming main celebrations for Parakram Diwas in 2026, PM Modi emphasized the islands' heritage of bravery, sacrifice, and resolve.

He reminisced about freedom fighters like Veer Savarkar, who faced severe trials in the Cellular Jail, and underscored the islands’ connection to Netaji. Andaman symbolizes the unwavering spirit of freedom; despite the oppression faced by many revolutionaries, the determination for independence only strengthened.

PM Modi recounted the hoisting of the tricolor flag on December 30, 1943, well ahead of 1947. He recalled performing the same act in 2018 during the 75th anniversary, saying the national anthem played with the fluttering tricolor by the sea was the realization of countless patriots' dreams.

The Prime Minister alleged that post-Independence, the islands’ rich history was overlooked due to political uncertainties and claimed that efforts to link the freedom struggle to a single family resulted in historical neglect.

He noted that even after seven decades of freedom, numerous locations in the islands retained colonial-era names tied to British officials.

His government took steps to rectify this by renaming Port Blair to Vijaypuram and changing the names of islands to Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, and Subhash Dweep. In 2023, a total of 21 islands were named in honor of Param Vir Chakra awardees.

Among the attendees were Andaman and Nicobar’s Lieutenant Governor Admiral D.K. Joshi (Retd.), Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose INA Trust Chairman Brigadier (Retd.) R.S. Chikara, and veteran freedom fighter Lieutenant R. Madhavan.