Thu Oct 31 15:59:04 UTC 2024: ## PM Modi Celebrates National Unity Day, Links Diwali Festivities to Global Recognition

**Kevadia, Gujarat:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 149th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on Thursday with a grand celebration of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat.

Speaking at the Unity Parade Ground in Kevadia, PM Modi highlighted the unique coincidence of the day falling on Diwali, the festival of lights. He noted that Diwali’s significance has transcended borders, with it being celebrated as a national festival in many countries, including the United States where President Biden hosted a Diwali reception on Wednesday.

“The festival of lights not only illuminates the country but has also started connecting India with the rest of the world,” PM Modi stated, adding that the event underscores India’s growing global prominence.

Continuing his speech, PM Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to the ‘One Nation, One Election’ proposal, stating that it will be implemented soon and will strengthen India’s democracy and resource management. He also mentioned the ongoing efforts towards a ‘One Nation One Civil Code’, which he described as a secular civil code.

PM Modi further hailed the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, claiming that it has been “buried forever” and that those who advocate for the Constitution are the ones who insult it the most. He asserted that the resolution of having one Constitution for the entire country was fulfilled 70 years after independence, calling it his “biggest tribute to Sardar Saheb.”

Addressing national security concerns, the Prime Minister declared that numerous threats have been eliminated under his government’s rule over the past 10 years. He also stated that issues plaguing the northeast region have been resolved through dialogue, trust, and development, citing the Bodo and Bru-Reang agreements, the National Liberation Front of Tripura’s accord, and the largely resolved border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya.

PM Modi concluded his speech by emphasizing India’s growing influence on the global stage, noting that countries are forging close associations with India despite ongoing conflicts between other nations. He attributed this to India’s strength and peaceful approach, calling Indians sensitive and alert to the importance of both.

“It is not normal for India to emerge as a ‘vishwabandhu’ (global friend) when there is a crisis of relations in different countries of the world,” he said. “Today, the world is seeing how India is solving its problems with determination.”

Read More