Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: REFLECTING on the nation’s trajectory on the occasion of Diwali, Prime Minster Narendra Modi offered a message of unity, outlined calls to action and saluted the valour of the armed forces, in his letter to the citizens of India and his address aboard INS Vikrant.
Together, the two messages presented a coordinated narrative: building national pride through both civic responsibility and defensive strength; heralding the festival as a moment for reflection, renewal and national purpose. In the letter, PM Modi emphasised that, in a world ridden with crises, India has emerged as “a symbol of both stability and sensitivity,” and is well on track to become the world’s third-largest economy in the near future. Calling upon citizens to contribute to the nation’s journey towards a Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the Prime Minister urged them to adopt Swadeshi, uphold cleanliness, and prioritise health and fitness.
“In this journey of a developed and self-reliant Bharat, our primary responsibility as citizens is to fulfill our duties towards the nation. Let us adopt Swadeshi and proudly say: ‘This is Swadeshi!’ Let us promote the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat,’ respect all languages, and maintain cleanliness. Let us also reduce the use of oil in our food and embrace Yoga,” he said.
The Prime Minister also pointed to recent economic reforms undertaken by the Government, including the reduction in GST rates implemented on the first day of Navratri. “During this GST Bachat Utsav, citizens are saving thousands of crores of rupees,” he said.
Extending Diwali greetings to the people of India, PM Modi drew a parallel between the teachings of Lord Ram and Operation Sindoor. The operation, he said, exemplified the country’s resolve to uphold righteousness and avenge injustice – values central to Lord Ram’s life and message. Highlighting the festival’s deeper significance this year, the Prime Minister said for the first time, lamps will be lit in several districts – including remote areas – where Naxalism and Maoist terrorism have been eradicated. He commended individuals who have renounced violence and joined the mainstream of development, calling it “a major achievement for the nation.”
Addressing Navy personnel aboard INS Vikrant, PM Modi said the aircraft carrier’s name was enough to disrupt Pakistan’s sleep. “Vikrant is not merely a warship, it is a testament to 21st Century India’s hard work, talent, impact and commitment. Just a few months ago, we saw that INS Vikrant, with its name alone, gave sleepless nights to entire Pakistan. “The fear instilled by the Indian Navy, the incredible skill demonstrated by the Indian Air Force, the bravery of the Indian Army… the exceptional coordination of the three services brought Pakistan to its knees swiftly during Operation Sindoor,” he said.
