Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday praised the Christian community for its role in guiding society and its sense of service, and said the country proudly recognized its contribution.
IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses members of the Christian community on the occasion of Christmas on Monday at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg in New Delhi. Photography: ANI Photo
During an interaction with community members at his residence here on Christmas, Modi recalled his old, intimate and warm relations with Christians since the days when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat and said they had always been at the forefront in serving the poor and destitute. .
Many thinkers and leaders from the community took part in the country’s freedom struggle, he said, adding that community-run educational and health institutions continue to make a great contribution in all India.
Modi said the life message of Jesus Christ centered on compassion and service, and he worked for an inclusive society where justice was for all.
These values serve as a “beacon” in his government’s development journey, the prime minister said, emphasizing that the Upanishads, considered the source of Hindi philosophy, also focused on realizing absolute truth like the Bible.
Some prominent members of the Christian community also spoke on the occasion and welcomed the various initiatives of the Modi government.
In his remarks, Modi said people can focus on their common values and heritage moving forward, as well as the spirit of cooperation and coordination, coupled with the spirit of “sabka prayers‘, can take the country to a new height.
The pope, he said, had sought the blessings of Jesus Christ for those working to end poverty.
The Pope’s words reflect the same spirit visible in the BJP-led government’s development mantra: “sabka sath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas, sabka prayers‘, he said.
His government ensures that development benefits everyone and also benefits Christians, especially the poor and deprived, the Prime Minister said.
He asked leaders of the Christian community to publicize his government’s programs aimed particularly at the youth, such as ‘Fit India’, the use of millet and the anti-drugs campaign.
Noting that the community is socially conscious, Modi said Christians can play an important role in his government’s environmental campaigns to ensure a minimum carbon footprint and promote sustainable living.
He also sought their support for his “Vocal for Local” program.
The Prime Minister recalled his 2021 meeting with Pope Francis, describing it as a memorable moment for him as they discussed ways to make the Earth a better place and issues of social harmony, global brotherhood, climate change and inclusive development.
He expressed the hope that the festive period would further strengthen the country, bring citizens together and strengthen the bonds that unite them amid their diversity.
Modi has made concerted efforts to reach out to Christians.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) runs campaigns to connect with the community during its festivals, especially in states like Kerala, where there are many of them.
Modi cited the party’s poll results in northeastern states, where Christians live in large numbers, as evidence of its growing acceptance among them.
