THE inauguration of India’s new Parliament, built over the last two years, marks a moment in the life of a nation that draws on its civilizational history and, at the same time, holds the promise of a more prosperous and equitable future, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said here Sunday.
Suggesting that India is witnessing an awakening of national consciousness similar to what was seen during the decisive last 25-year phase of the freedom struggle, Modi projected the building as a symbol of a resurgent “new India” and linked it to his government’s welfare deliveries in the past nine years.
In her message read out at the inauguration ceremony, President Droupadi Murmu said she was glad that the Prime Minister, who symbolises the trust of Parliament, is inaugurating the building.
In attendance were former President Ram Nath Kovind, former Prime Minister and JD(S) leader
H D Deve Gowda, several Chief Ministers and Union Ministers.
Delivering his first speech in the new building, Modi repeatedly tapped into the sense of “national pride” pointing out that the new building was a reflection of the aspirations and dreams of 140 crore Indians and a message to the world about the country’s determination.
Pointing out that “new models can be established only by treading new paths”, Modi said: “There is a new energy, new zeal, new enthusiasm, new thinking and a new journey. There are new visions, new directions, new resolutions and a new trust…When India moves forward, the world moves forward. This new building of the Parliament will call for the development of the world along with the development of India.”
Drawing an arc of history, Modi said there comes a time when the consciousness of the country awakens anew. He said Mahatma Gandhi’s movement was one such moment 25 years before Independence and the country was then filled with belief and hope. He said India will mark the 100th year of its Independence in the next 25 years.
“Together we have to make India a developed nation in these 25 years. The goal is big, the goal is also difficult but today (everyone) has to work hard for it, take new vows, make new resolutions, gather a new pace,” he said. “When a country like India, full of diversity, with a huge population that tackles various challenges, moves forward with a belief, it inspires many countries of the world. Every achievement of India is going to become an achievement for different countries in different parts of the world in the coming days.”
“India is not only a democratic nation but also the mother of democracy. Today India is also a big base of global democracy. Democracy is not just a system for us, it is a culture, an idea, a tradition,” he said.
“The new India of the 21st century, an India full of high spirit, is now leaving behind (the) mentality of slavery. Today, India is once again turning that glorious stream of ancient times towards itself. And this new building of Parliament has become a living symbol of this effort,” he said.
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