PM recalls Netaji Bose’s indomitable courage and enduring inspiration

New Delhi :- PM Narendra Modi paid tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary, commemorated as Parakram Diwas. He recalled Netaji’s indomitable courage, unwavering resolve and unparalleled contribution to the nation, stating that his fearless leadership and deep patriotism continue to inspire generations to build a strong India. The Prime Minister also said that Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose has always inspired him greatly. He recalled that on 23rd January 2009, the e-Gram Vishwagram Yojana, a pioneering scheme aimed at transforming Gujarat’s IT landscape, was launched. He noted that the scheme was launched from Haripura, which held a special place in Netaji Bose’s life, and recalls the warm welcome by the people of Haripura and the procession organised on the same road once travelled by Netaji Bose. The Prime Minister also remembered that in 2012, a large programme was organised in Ahmedabad to mark Azad Hind Fauj Day. He noted that the programme was attended by several people inspired by Netaji Bose, including former Lok Sabha Speaker Shri P. A. Sangma.

Reflecting on the past, the Prime Minister stated that recalling the glorious contribution of Netaji Bose did not fit the agenda of those who ruled the nation for decades, and efforts were made to forget him. He emphasises that the present belief is different and that, at every possible juncture, efforts have been made to popularise Netaji Bose’s life and ideals. He noted that a landmark step in this direction was the declassification of files and documents relating to Netaji Bose. The Prime Minister recalled that 2018 was a landmark year for two reasons. He noted that the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the Azad Hind Government was marked at the Red Fort, where he had the opportunity to hoist the Tricolour. He also recalled his interaction with INA veteran Lalti Ram Ji on the occasion. The Prime Minister further recalled that in Srivijayapuram (then Port Blair) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Tricolour was unfurled to mark the 75th anniversary of Subhas Babu unfurling the national flag there. He notes that three prominent islands were renamed, including Ross Island, which was renamed as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep.

The Prime Minister highlighted that the Kranti Mandir museum at the Red Fort houses substantial historical material related to Netaji Bose and the Indian National Army, including the cap worn by Netaji Bose. He states that this forms part of the efforts to preserve and deepen knowledge of Netaji Bose’s historic contribution. The Prime Minister said that in honour of Netaji Bose, his birth anniversary has been declared as Parakram Diwas. Highlighting a shining example of the resolve to shed a colonial mindset and the reverence for Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, the Prime Minister remembered the decision to place a grand statue of Netaji Bose next to India Gate in the heart of the national capital. He said that the statue will inspire people for generations to come.