PM Modi participates in virtual Vesak Day celebrations on Buddha Purnima

Published By : Admin | May 26, 2021 | 09:57 IST
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Calls for all those who believe in humanity to come together and defeat terror and radicalisation

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi delivered a keynote address on the occasion of Vesak Global Celebrations on Buddha Purnima through video conference. Members of Venerated Mahasangha, Prime Ministers of Nepal and Sri Lanka, Union Ministers Shri Prahlad Singh and Shri Kiren Rijiju, Secretary General of International Buddhist Confederation, Venerable Doctor Dhammapiya were also at the event.

Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said Vesak is a day to celebrate the life of Lord Buddha and to reflect on the noble ideals and sacrifices he made for the betterment of our planet. He added that he dedicated last year’s Vesak day programme to all the front-line workers leading humanity's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. A year later, COVID-19 pandemic has still not left us and several nations, including India, have experienced a second wave. He remarked that this once in a life-time pandemic has brought tragedy and suffering at the door-step of many and has impacted every nation. He said the economic impact left by the pandemic is huge and our planet will not be the same after COVID-19. He said there have been many note-worthy improvements as well over the last year, like having a better understanding of the pandemic, which strengthens our strategy to fight it and having the vaccine, which is absolutely important to save lives and defeat the pandemic. He lauded the efforts of the scientists for developing the COVID-19 vaccines within a year and said this shows the power of human determination and tenacity.

The Prime Minister said that the four sights in the life of Lord Buddha ignited within him the desire to devote his life to removing human suffering. He said that in the last year, several individuals and organisations rose to the occasion and did everything possible to reduce human suffering. Generous contributions of equipment and materials were made by the Buddhist organisations and followers of Buddha Dharma from around the world. He remarked that these actions are in line with the teachings of Lord Buddha भवतु सब्ब मंगलम (blessings, compassion and welfare of all).

The Prime Minister said that while fighting COVID-19, one must not lose sight of the other challenges faced by humanity like climate change, etc. He added that the reckless life-styles of the present generation are threatening the future generations and resolved to not let our planet remain wounded. He reminded the Lord Buddha’s emphasis on a way of life where respect for Mother Nature is paramount. He announced that India is among the few large economies to be on track to achieve their Paris targets. He said for India, sustainable living is not only about the right words but also about the right actions.

The Prime Minister remarked that the life of Gautama Buddha was about peace, harmony and co-existence. But today, there are still forces whose existence depends on spreading hate, terror and mindless violence. He said such forces do not believe in liberal democratic principles and thus gave a call for all those who believe in humanity to come together and defeat terror and radicalisation. He said Lord Buddh's teachings and the importance given to social justice can become a global unifying force.

The Prime Minister said Lord Buddha was the reservoir of brilliance for the entire universe. From him we all could draw light from time to time and take the path of compassion, universal responsibility and welfare. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi “Buddha taught us to defy appearances and trust in the final triumph of Truth and Love” the Prime Minister urged everyone to renew their commitment to the ideals of Lord Buddha.

The Prime Minister thanked the first responders, front-line health care workers, doctors, nurses and volunteers for selflessly risking their lives to serve others in need everyday. He expressed condolences to those who have suffered and lost their near and dear ones.

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“Sugamya Bharat Abhiyaan a Game Changer; Karnataka Congress Rolling Back Dignity and Rights,” Says BJP Minister on Disability Budget Slash
December 03, 2024

On the occasion of the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan’s anniversary, Dr. Virendra Kumar; Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment of India, spotlighted the central government’s unfaltering dedication to building an inclusive and accessible society for all. Reflecting on the progress achieved under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary leadership, Dr. Kumar emphasized the transformative impact of the initiative, marking another significant milestone in India's journey toward true inclusivity.

Dr. Virendra Kumar emphasized the remarkable strides achieved in creating a barrier-free and inclusive India. He spotlighted the flagship initiative promoting universal accessibility in public spaces, transportation, and digital platforms. “The Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan has been a game-changer in promoting universal accessibility in public spaces, transportation, and digital platforms. This initiative reflects the PM Modi government’s belief that true progress can only be achieved when every citizen, regardless of physical ability, is empowered to reach their full potential,” he remarked.

Dr. Kumar highlighted the transformative initiatives under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, emphasizing their profound impact on empowering differently-abled individuals. He noted how PM Modi redefined societal attitudes by encouraging the use of the term Divyang(divine-abled) instead of Viklang(disabled), promoting a more socially inclusive, respectful and dignified life for them. He also underscored the landmark Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016, which expanded the definition of disability from 7 to 21 categories, ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, and social participation. Dr. Kumar commended the government's initiatives to support differently-abled individuals in various fields. He highlighted the remarkable accomplishments of India's para-athletes, who earned 19 medals at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and an impressive 29 medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. These successes, he said, reflect the inclusive policies and solid support provided by the Modi government.

Turning his attention to recent developments in Karnataka, Dr. Kumar expressed grave concern over the government’s alarming decision to slash funding for differently-abled individuals by an unprecedented 80%. He emphasized that on one hand, while the central government is making all possible efforts to empower the Divyang community, Congress on the other, is once again showing its true colors by disregarding their needs and undermining their dignity.

“Congress has hit a new low, stooping to strip Divyangjans of their dignity and rights, all in the name of cheap vote-bank politics. They prioritize freebies over fundamental human respect,” he said.

Dr. Virendra Kumar stated, “The decision to reduce the budget for differently-abled individuals from ₹53 crore to a paltry ₹10 crore in the year 2024-25 is nothing short of a betrayal which is detrimental to the progress and empowerment of this vital section of society. At a time when the central government is accelerating efforts to build a barrier-free and inclusive India, such a move undermines these collective achievements.”

He added, “Karnataka is home to over 1.3 million differently-abled individuals. Reducing their allocated resources will severely impact their access to education, employment, and essential support services, putting their futures at stake.”

Dr. Kumar highlighted that the budget cut reflects a blatant disregard for marginalized communities, calling it a striking example of indifference. He emphasized Congress's long-standing pattern of prioritizing political interests over public welfare, describing this decision as a new low. The reduction, he stated, directly jeopardizes the lives of thousands of differently-abled individuals who depend on this funding for access to education, employment opportunities, and vital support services.

Dr. Kumar concluded by stating, “As we celebrate the 9th anniversary of the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, I urge all state governments to align with the central government’s vision of accessibility and inclusivity. I specifically call on the Karnataka government to reconsider its decision and restore funding to support differently-abled individuals. Only then can we build a truly accessible and inclusive India.”