Your Excellencies, the Presidents of BRICS countries
Your Excellencies, the Presidents of South American Countries
Distinguished Delegates
I thank Brazil, for providing this opportunity, to interact with leaders, from South American countries. I am grateful, to Your Excellencies, for sparing your valuable time, to meet us today. South America, has tremendous potential. It is blessed, with vast resources and talent. It can become an important pillar of the global economy. In the face of economic uncertainty its growth can be crucial for global prosperity. In a globalised and inter-connected world, our destinies are inter-linked. We are all bound, by shared aspirations and common challenges. We all have a stake in each other's success. Distance is not a barrier to opportunities. It also does not, insulate us from challenges in other parts of the world.
Thus, we must all unite:
To seek faster growth and newer avenues of generating prosperity.
To find solutions to the challenge of poverty.
To preserve our environment, and use our resources well.
Our discussions today should throw up new ideas for partnership between BRICS and South America. BRICS nations have already started a new chapter in this with the BRICS New Development Bank. This will open up newer opportunities of cooperation.
Excellencies, India and South America share a deep bond.
Authors and poets, like Octavio Paz, Gabriel Garcia Marquez and Pablo Neruda are popular in India. Similarly, our national poet, Rabindranath Tagore, is widely loved here. South America is also home to a large number of Indians, many of whom came centuries ago. Generations later, they remain a strong bridge of friendship, between our nations.
Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi meeting the President of the Republic of Peru, Mr. Ollanta Humala
My own home state of Gujarat has many links with South America:
Ages ago, the Gir cow made its way from Gujarat, all the way to Brazil. Today Gujarat accounts for more than half of India's trade, with this wonderful continent.
Excellencies, as Chief Minister of Gujarat, I also had the privilege, to interact with your Ambassadors in Delhi.
I was struck by their warmth, and their keen desire to forge closer relations, between India and South America.
I assure you that India will work more closely with South America than ever before. At the bilateral level, as a BRICS member, in the G-77, as well as other international forums.
Excellencies, India's trade with South America, has shown strong growth in recent years.
There is a growing presence, of Indian investors in South America. It is, however, still well below potential. From hydrocarbons to pharma, textiles to leather, engineering goods to automobiles; the range of opportunities is enormous.We must utilize, the Preferential Trade Agreement between India and the MERCOSUR Trade Block, and Chile, more effectively. We also attach importance, to the South American and Caribbean Business Conclave held every year in India. A similar Investment Conclave, is being organized in October 2014, in India. I ask your Excellencies, to encourage your business leaders, to take full advantage of this opportunity.
I firmly believe, the possibilities of cooperation are limited not by distance but only by our imagination and efforts.We have much to learn from each other, in our journey towards inclusive and sustainable development. We must share with each other, our experiences, best practices and innovative solutions. India stands committed to the same. I am pleased, that India has deputed experts, to countries in the South American region in the fields of Agriculture, Horticulture, Disaster Management, Communications and Law. We are also working together in Renewable Energy.
Almost 250 students from South America, have been taking courses in India every year under our International Technical and Economic Cooperation program. I however believe, that this is not enough. We intend to substantially increase the same.
To share India's expertise in Information Technology, we will establish Centres of Excellence in Information Technology, in South American countries. India also offers to expand cooperation, in areas like Tele-medicine, Tele-education and e-Governance. We extend our Space capabilities, for weather forecasting, resource mapping and disaster management. Our ongoing Parliament session in Delhi – my Government's first – prevents me from spending more time here, on this visit. But, I look forward to returning to this great continent; of beauty, opportunities and warm people. I also look forward, to a much more intensive level of engagement, between India and South America, in the coming years, across all domains of cooperation
Text of PM’s address at the inauguration and launch of multiple development projects in Prayagraj
December 13, 2024
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Maha Kumbh is a divine festival of our faith, spirituality and culture: PM
Prayag is a place where there are holy places,virtuous areas at every step: PM
Kumbh is the name of the inner consciousness of man: PM
MahaKumbh is MahaYagya of unity: PM
Honourable Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Anandiben Patel Ji, Honourable Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath Ji, Honourable Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya Ji and Brajesh Pathak Ji, esteemed ministers of Uttar Pradesh, respected Members of Parliament and Legislative Assembly, the Mayor and District Panchayat President of Prayagraj, other distinguished guests, and my dear brothers and sisters.
I bow with reverence to this sacred land of Sangam in Prayagraj. I also extend my obeisance to all the saints and sages arriving for the Maha Kumbh. I particularly commend the efforts of the employees, workers, and sanitation staff who are tirelessly working day and night to ensure the success of the Maha Kumbh. Hosting such a grand global event, preparing to welcome and serve lakhs of devotees every day, conducting a Maha Yagya continuously for 45 days, and building a new city as part of this magnificent initiative—these efforts are creating a new chapter in the history of Prayagraj. The organisation of the Maha Kumbh next year will elevate the cultural and spiritual identity of our nation to unparalleled heights. With great confidence and devotion, I must say that if this Maha Kumbh were to be described in a single sentence, it would be: This is a Maha Yagya of unity that will resonate across the globe. I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all of you for the grand and divine success of this event.
Friends,
Bharat is a land of holy places and sacred pilgrimages. It is home to countless revered rivers, such as the Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kaveri, and Narmada. The sanctity of these rivers, the significance of numerous pilgrimage sites, their grandeur, their confluence, their coming together—all of this embodies the essence of Prayag. Prayag is not merely the meeting point of three holy rivers; it is a place of unparalleled spiritual importance. It is said about Prayag: माघ मकरगत रबि जब होई। तीरथपतिहिं आव सब कोई॥ —meaning that when the Sun enters Capricorn, all divine powers, all pilgrimage sites, and all sages, Maharishis, and mystics converge at Prayag. This is the place whose spiritual influence completes the Puranas. Prayagraj is the sacred land that has been glorified in the verses of the Vedas.
Brothers and Sisters,
Prayag is a sacred land where every step is marked by a holy site, and every path leads to a place of virtue. As the verse says: त्रिवेणीं माधवं सोमं, भरद्वाजं च वासुकिम्। वन्दे अक्षय-वटं शेषं, प्रयागं तीर्थनायकम्॥ This describes the triple effect of the Triveni Sangam, the glory of Veni Madhav, the blessings of Someshwar, the sanctity of Rishi Bharadwaj’s ashram, the special significance of Nagraj Vasuki, the immortality of the Akshaya Vat, and the eternal grace of Shesha—this is our Teerthraj Prayag, the king of pilgrimages. Prayag means: "चारि पदारथ भरा भँडारू। This means that Prayag is the place where all four goals of life—Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha—are attainable. Prayagraj is not just a geographic location; it is a realm of profound spiritual experience. I consider it a blessing from Prayag and its people that I am privileged to visit this sacred land repeatedly. During the last Kumbh, I had the honour of bathing in the Sangam, and today, before the start of this Kumbh, I have once again had the privilege of seeking the blessings of Maa Ganga by visiting this holy confluence. Today, I performed a snan (ritual bath) at the Sangam Ghat, had darshan of Hanuman Ji, and received the blessings of the Akshaya Vat tree. For the convenience of devotees, the Hanuman Corridor and Akshaya Vat Corridor are being constructed, and I also received updates about the Saraswati Koop Redevelopment Project. Today, projects worth thousands of crores of rupees have been inaugurated here, and I congratulate all of you for these transformative developments.
Friends,
The Maha Kumbh is a sacred and living testament to the cultural and spiritual journey of our nation, which has continued unbroken for thousands of years. It is an event that brings together religion, knowledge, devotion, and art in a divine confluence. It is said in our scriptures: "दश तीर्थ सहस्राणि, तिस्रः कोट्यस्तथा अपराः। सम आगच्छन्ति माघ्यां तु, प्रयागे भरतर्षभ." This means that a ritual bath in the Sangam at Prayag is equivalent to earning virtues from visiting countless other pilgrimages. Whoever bathes in Prayag is absolved of all sins. Through the ages—whether in the era of kings and emperors or during centuries of colonial rule—the flow of faith associated with Kumbh has never ceased. The reason is that Kumbh is not governed by any external authority; it is driven by the inner consciousness of humanity. This consciousness awakens naturally, drawing people from every corner of India to the banks of the Sangam. Villagers, townsfolk, and city dwellers alike embark on their journeys to Prayagraj. This collective consciousness is a rare and powerful phenomenon. Here, saints, sages, scholars, and ordinary people come together as one, taking the holy dip in the Triveni Sangam. Differences of caste dissolve, sectarian conflicts fade, and millions unite with a single purpose and shared belief. During this Maha Kumbh, too, crores will arrive from various states, speaking different languages, belonging to different castes and traditions, and holding diverse beliefs. Yet, upon reaching the city of Sangam, they will become one. This is why I reiterate that the Maha Kumbh is truly a Maha Yagya of unity, where every form of discrimination is sacrificed. Every Indian who takes a dip in the Sangam presents a magnificent vision of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.
Friends,
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Maha Kumbh tradition is its ability to provide direction to the nation. During Kumbh, extensive discussions were held on the pressing issues and challenges faced by the country. These debates, dialogues, and deliberations among saints often infused new energy into the thoughts of the nation and illuminated new paths for progress. Historically, saints and spiritual leaders have made several significant decisions regarding the country during such gatherings. Before the advent of modern means of communication, events like Kumbh laid the foundation for major social transformations. Here, saints and scholars would come together to discuss the joys and sorrows of society, reflect on the present, and envision the future. Even today, the relevance of grand events like Kumbh remains unchanged. These gatherings continue to send a positive message to society, fostering a continuous stream of national thought. While the names of such events, their destinations, and their routes may differ, the travellers remain united by a single purpose.
Friends,
Despite the immense significance of Kumbh and religious pilgrimages, previous governments failed to recognise their importance. Devotees often faced numerous hardships during these events, yet those governments remained indifferent. This neglect stemmed from their lack of connection to Indian culture and faith. However, today, both the central and state governments are led by individuals who deeply respect India’s culture and traditions. This “double-engine government” considers it its duty to provide seamless facilities for devotees attending Kumbh. As part of this commitment, the central and state governments have launched initiatives worth thousands of crores of rupees to ensure smooth arrangements. The coordinated efforts of various government departments in preparing for the Maha Kumbh are highly commendable. Special attention has been given to improving connectivity so that devotees from every corner of the country and the world can reach Kumbh without difficulty. Connectivity between Prayagraj and cities such as Ayodhya, Varanasi, Rae Bareli, and Lucknow has been significantly enhanced. The comprehensive “Whole of Government” approach that I often speak about is clearly visible in the preparations for this Maha Kumbh.
Friends,
Our government has consistently focused on preserving and enriching Bharat's heritage while advancing development. Across the nation, various tourist circuits are being developed, such as the Ramayana Circuit, Shri Krishna Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, and Tirthankar Circuit. These initiatives bring renewed attention to historically and spiritually significant locations that were previously overlooked. Through programmes like the Swadesh Darshan Yojana and the PRASAD scheme, we are expanding facilities at pilgrimage sites. We have all witnessed how the construction of the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya has transformed the entire city into a magnificent spectacle. Similarly, Vishwanath Dham and Mahakal Mahalok have gained worldwide recognition. In Prayagraj, the Akshay Vat Corridor, Hanuman Temple Corridor, and Bhardwaj Rishi Ashram Corridor reflect the same vision of rejuvenation. Additionally, sacred sites like Saraswati Koop, Patalpuri, Nagvasuki, and the Dwadash Madhav temples are being renovated to better serve the devotees.
Friends,
Prayagraj is also the land of Nishadraj. Shringaverpur holds a significant place in the journey of Lord Ram as he became Maryada Purushottam. The story of Lord Ram and Kewat continues to inspire us even today. When Kewat encountered his Lord, he humbly washed Lord Ram's feet and helped him cross the river in his boat. This episode reflects a unique sense of devotion and carries the profound message of friendship between God and his devotee. It reminds us that even the Almighty can seek the help of a devotee. Shringaverpur Dham is being developed as a symbol of this divine friendship between Lord Ram and Nishadraj. The statue of Lord Ram and Nishadraj will serve as a timeless reminder of equality and harmony for future generations.
Friends,
Cleanliness plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of a grand and divine event like Kumbh. As part of the preparations for the Maha Kumbh, the Namami Gange programme has been accelerated. Special emphasis has been placed on sanitation and waste management in Prayagraj city. Initiatives like appointing Gangadoots, Ganga Praharis, and Ganga Mitras aim to raise awareness among people about maintaining cleanliness. This time, over 15,000 of my sanitation worker brothers and sisters will manage the cleanliness of Kumbh. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude in advance to these dedicated sanitation workers who are tirelessly contributing to the preparations for Kumbh. The purity, cleanliness, and spirituality that crores of visitors will experience during the event will be possible only because of your efforts. In this sacred service, you will share in the virtue of every devotee who comes here. Just as Lord Krishna taught us the value of all work by picking up used plates, your work will elevate the significance of this event. You are the ones who begin your duties at the break of dawn and continue until late at night. During the 2019 Kumbh, the cleanliness of the event received widespread acclaim. Those who participated in the Kumbh or Maha Kumbh for decades saw such impeccable cleanliness and organisation for the first time. It was for this reason that I expressed my gratitude to you by washing your feet. The satisfaction and fulfilment I felt while performing this gesture remain a cherished and unforgettable experience in my life.
Friends,
There is an important aspect of Kumbh that is often overlooked: the significant boost it provides to economic activities. We can already witness how economic activities in this region are gaining momentum in preparation for Kumbh. For approximately one and a half months, a new city will emerge along the banks of the Sangam, with lakhs of people visiting daily. To manage such a massive event, a large workforce will be required in Prayagraj. The work of over 6,000 boatmen, thousands of shopkeepers, and those assisting with rituals, prayers, and meditation will see a significant increase. This means that countless employment opportunities will be created. To maintain the supply chain, traders will need to source goods from other cities, and the impact of Prayagraj Kumbh will extend to surrounding districts as well. Additionally, devotees travelling from other states will use trains and planes, further stimulating the economy. Thus, the Maha Kumbh will not only foster social unity but also bring substantial economic empowerment to the people.
Friends,
The Maha Kumbh 2025 is being organised in an era that is far more advanced in terms of technology compared to previous events. Today, the number of people using smartphones has increased manifold. Back in 2013, data was not as affordable as it is now. Today, mobile phones come equipped with user-friendly apps that even those with limited technical knowledge can use. Earlier, I launched the Kumbh Sahayak Chatbot, marking the first time that Artificial Intelligence (AI) and chatbot technology will be employed in the Kumbh. This AI-powered chatbot supports communication in 11 Indian languages. I encourage more people to connect with this fusion of tradition and technology. For instance, a photography competition centred on Maha Kumbh could be organised, showcasing it as a Maha Yagya of unity. Such initiatives will captivate the youth, encouraging their active participation in the event. When these photographs are shared on social media, they will create a vast and vibrant canvas, filled with countless colours and emotions. The possibilities are endless. Additionally, you could organise competitions related to spirituality and nature, further enriching the experience of Maha Kumbh.
Friends,
Today, Bharat is making rapid strides towards becoming a developed nation. I am confident that the spiritual and collective energy emanating from this Maha Kumbh will strengthen our resolve. May the Maha Kumbh bath be a historic and unforgettable experience. May the confluence of Maa Ganga, Maa Yamuna, and Maa Saraswati bring welfare to humanity—this is our collective wish. I extend my heartfelt best wishes to every devotee visiting the sacred city of Prayagraj (Sangam Nagri). Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Now, say it with me—
