Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on Sunday in the 45th edition of his radio programme Mann Ki Baat. He called the implementation of the Goods And Services Tax as the prime example of “cooperative federalism”. He lauded the states for taking the decision to implement the tax in the national interest.
Cricket team’s sportsmanship
He began by congratulating the Afghanistan cricket team for making their Test debut. “It is a matter of pride that Afghanistan made its debut against India in Bengaluru,” the PM said. He also hailed the Indian cricket team for their sportsman spirit after the match. “After they won the trophy, they involved the Afghanistan players and took photographs with them; it shows sportsman spirit on part of the Indian team,” he said.
International Yoga Day
He went on to share his thoughts on the International Yoga Day celebrations that took place throughout the nation and even worldwide. “The entire world seemed to be united on World Yoga Day on June 21. Be it the European Parliament in Brussels, or the headquarters of United Nations in New York, or the fighter planes of Japanese Navy, people performed Yoga everywhere. The country is proud that the jawans performed Yoga on land, air and water. Some soldiers practised Yoga inside submarines. Some soldiers performed Yoga at Siachen,” he proudly stated.
Doctors and their contribution
Prime Minister Modi praised doctors and medical professionals for their contribution to nation’s development. “It is the mother who gives birth but often it is the doctor who bestows people with a rebirth, The role of doctors is not limited to giving medicines. They are like our friends. They not only cure but heal. Indian doctors have made their mark internationally, with their skills and capabilities. Our doctors are known for solving complex medical problems. I, on the behalf of the entire nation, wish a happy Doctor’s Day, which is on July 1.” remarked PM Modi.
Remembering Guru Nanak Dev and Sant Kabir
He also remembered Guru Nanak Dev and Sant Kabir in his address to the nation. “Guru Nanak Dev taught us to end caste-based discrimination and to embrace the entire humanity. He has said that the service of the poor and the needy is the service of God. Guru Nanak Dev started the system of langar where people of all religion, caste, creed and community can come and eat together. Saint Kabir Das through his dohas laid emphasis on equality, peace and brotherhood. We find these ideals in his creations and they are still inspiring.”
Jallianwala Bagh Tragedy
The prime minister also remembered the martyrs of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, which will observe its centenary next year. “The massacre, which took place on April 13, 1919, is an embarrassment to humanity, In 2019, the infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre will complete 100 years. Who can forget that unarmed and innocent people were killed by misusing the power. We must remember the lessons the incident has taught us, that violence and cruelty cannot solve any problem. Non-violence, peace and sacrifice win in the end.” he said.
The contribution of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee
PM Modi also hailed the contributions of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, the founder of the BJP, saying that his dream of a united India should never be forgotten. “He dreamt of an India that was industrially self-reliant, efficient and prosperous, Three sectors were very dear to him – education, administration and parliamentary affairs. Do you know he was the youngest vice-chancellor of Calcutta University. He was only 33 when he became the vice-chancellor of the university. On his invitation, Rabindra Nath Tagore delivered the convocation speech in Bangla in 1937. It was the first time a speech was delivered in Bangla under British rule.” the PM said.
GST and its success
Finally, the PM went on to hail the Goods and Service Tax (GST) and boasted about how it’s implementation had gotten rid of inspector-raj in the country. ” GST is the victory and festival of honesty. Earlier, complaints used to come regarding inspector-raj in the matters related to taxes. Now information technology has replaced inspectors. From return to refund, everything happens through information and technology. GST has ended check posts, which has expedited transportation of goods. It is not only saving the time but is also providing profit to the logistics sector, ” he concluded.
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