Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi
Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a moving tribute to Jawaharlal Nehru’s iconic ‘A tryst with destiny’ speech in Parliament. He eloquently reflected on the nearly eight-decade journey of the old Parliament building, which symbolizes India’s progress since gaining independence from British rule.
On August 15, 1947, India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, delivered his historic address, proclaiming, “At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.” Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the enduring impact of Nehru’s words, stating, “The echo of Nehru ji’s Stroke of Midnight speech will inspire us.”
Modi also recalled the wisdom of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who once said, “Governments will come and go, but this country will stay.” He highlighted these key milestones in the history of the old Parliament building during his address.
The Parliament convened for a special five-day session, marking the transfer of proceedings to the new Parliament building. Today marked the final day of proceedings in the old building.
In his speech, Modi emphasized the significance of this moment, urging everyone to remember those who have been a part of Parliament’s historic journey. He paid tribute to former Presidents and Prime Ministers, stating, “From Rajendra Prasad to Ram Nath Kovind to Droupadi Murmu, this parliament has received their guidance. This Parliament has also witnessed the times of Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shashtri, Atal Bihari Vajpay.