New Delhi, Dec 23 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday denounced efforts to provoke violence within society, underscoring that the messages of Jesus Christ advocate for love, harmony, and brotherhood.

During his address at the Christmas celebration organized by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) at their headquarters, PM Modi emphasized the necessity to collaborate in exemplifying the values imparted by Jesus and to enhance this spirit of unity.

He also condemned the recent terrorist incident at Germany's Magdeburg Christmas Market, where an SUV plowed into a crowd, causing the deaths of four women and a nine-year-old child, along with injuring 205 individuals, including seven Indians.

PM Modi highlighted the significance of focusing on human interests alongside national interests, asserting that India's foreign policy reflects this ethos.

He pointed to India's humanitarian contributions during the Covid-19 pandemic, in which the country aided over 150 nations with medicines and vaccines. This human welfare centered approach had a significant global influence, with expressions of gratitude from countries like Guyana and various island nations.

“India exceeded its capabilities to assist other nations during the Covid-19 pandemic, supplying medicines to over 150 countries,” he stated.

He also talked about the evacuation of Indians trapped in conflict zones, asserting that regardless of their location or the crises they encounter, modern India sees it as an obligation to ensure the safety of its citizens.

“We successfully brought back our nurses who were stranded in the Gulf countries. A particularly fulfilling moment for me was when we safely rescued Father Alexis Prem Kumar from war-torn Afghanistan a decade ago. He had been trapped there for eight months and was held hostage… for us, these operations are not merely diplomatic endeavors but an emotional obligation to reunite family members,” he remarked.

The Prime Minister expressed pride in George Koovakad becoming a Cardinal of the Holy Roman Catholic Church.

“It is a proud moment that Pope Francis has appointed George Koovakad as a Cardinal of the Holy Roman Catholic Church,” he stated.

He emphasized the importance of hope in changing the world, drawing attention to India's accomplishments over the last decade.

PM Modi noted that 250 million people have escaped poverty, and the country's economy has surged from the 10th to the 5th largest worldwide.

He commended the nation's youth for their ambition and drive, and highlighted the empowerment of women across various sectors, including entrepreneurship and the armed forces, stressing that no nation can advance without empowering women.

PM Modi also discussed India's advancements in technology, particularly in mobile and semiconductor manufacturing. He pointed out the crucial role of technology in uplifting the disadvantaged and the swift infrastructure development occurring, which includes new expressways, rural roads, and metro routes.

These initiatives, he asserted, inspire hope for a brighter future for India.

The Prime Minister reiterated the values of compassion and selfless service taught by Jesus Christ, emphasizing the role of institutions in serving society. He applauded government programs like the PM Awas Yojana, which empowers women by constructing homes in their names, and the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, which has enhanced women's representation in Parliament.

PM Modi concluded by reiterating the necessity of collective effort in creating a developed India.

He expressed confidence that, with ongoing initiatives such as Swachh Bharat and support for local artisans, India will continue to advance.

“A developed India is our shared aspiration, and together, we shall realize it,” he affirmed, extending warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a hopeful Jubilee Year.