Agencies | New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday attended Dussehra celebrations at IP Extension Utsav Ground in the national capital, asserting that India was reclaiming its identity and heritage after centuries of foreign invasions and plunder. He also called for national unity in safeguarding the country’s interests and confronting forces that threaten its social harmony and cultural traditions.
Extending greetings to the people on Vijayadashami, Modi said the tradition of upholding Lord Rama’s ideals was more than a festival, describing it as a source of inspiration for millions of Indians. He said the occasion symbolised not only the victory of good over evil but also the enduring values of truth, righteousness and good governance.
Referring to the concept of Ram Rajya, the Prime Minister said it represented a system focused on public welfare, equal opportunities and justice for all, without discrimination.
“Ram Rajya means a form of Jan Kalyan (good governance) where no one faces discrimination, everyone receives justice, all have equal opportunities, and the purpose of power is not to rule but to work for public welfare,” he said.
Modi added that governance should be guided by the principle of Nagrik Devo Bhava, under which every citizen is treated with dignity and respect.
The Prime Minister said the government’s priority was the welfare of poor and disadvantaged sections of society. He called on Indians to place faith in the country’s own capabilities and work collectively towards inclusive development.
“We must have faith in our resources. We must turn our resolve into power and find solutions through our own hard work,” he said, emphasising the importance of self-reliance.
Highlighting efforts to restore India’s cultural heritage, Modi said more than 600 ancient idols had been returned to the country over the past 12 years. He described the recovery of cultural artefacts as part of a broader effort to reconnect India with its historical and civilisational legacy.
Calling for a united national approach, the Prime Minister urged institutions, political parties and citizens to place the national interest above differences.
“Our thoughts must align, and our committees—all the institutions of the nation, all political parties—must stand together for the national interest,” he said.
Modi also called for collective action against forces he said threatened the country, divided society or expressed hostility towards its cultural traditions.
Emphasising the importance of self-respect and self-reliance, he said a nation could progress only when its people had confidence in their identity, resources and collective potential.
The Prime Minister’s address linked the message of Vijayadashami with his emphasis on cultural heritage, public welfare, national unity and the goal of building a self-reliant India.
