Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a five-nation tour from May 15 to 20, addressed a community program in The Hague, Netherlands on Saturday and described May 16 as “very special”.
In his speech, PM Modi highlighted the deep emotional bond between India and its diaspora, while highlighting the preservation of cultural heritage, the contribution of the community across the world and the growing ties between India and the Netherlands.
Why did PM Modi call May 16 “very special”?
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the importance of the occasion that on 16 May 2014, the results of the 2014 Indian General Elections were declared, giving the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) a clear mandate to form a stable majority government after years of Indian National Congress (INC)-led United Progressive Alliance rule.
“Today is May 16 and this day is very special for another reason. Twelve years ago today, May 16, 2014, something special happened. It was on this day in 2014 that the results of the Lok Sabha elections were announced. After decades, it was certain that a stable and fully majority government would emerge in India. That was one day, and that is the absent Prime Minister today.
Reflecting on his years in public life, PM Modi mentioned that his work was always guided by the spirit of service and the trust people reposed in him.
“The faith of millions of Indians will not let me stop or tire me,” he declared, adding, “I chose the path from ‘I’ to ‘we. Then your happiness became my happiness and your well-being became my duty.”
Reflecting on his long tenure in public office, the Prime Minister declared: “13 years as Chief Minister… 12 years as Prime Minister… in a democratic world, 25 years… the unwavering support of millions upon millions of voters… that is a matter of great luck for me.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a community program in The Hague, Netherlands. (narendramodi.in via PTI Photo)(narendramodi.in)
He stated that the support he has received over the years transcends politics and represents a deep emotional bond with the people.
PM Modi praises Indian diaspora, expresses gratitude to people and Dutch government
PM Modi said interacting with the Indian diaspora is always a joyous experience and noted that the warmth and enthusiasm of the gathering in the Netherlands made him feel like he was participating in the festivities in India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets during a community program in The Hague, Netherlands. (narendramodi.in via PTI Photo)(narendramodi.in)
He praised the Indian community for its valuable contribution to the Dutch society and economy, adding that people across India are proud of the achievements of Indians living abroad.
PM Modi also expressed gratitude to the people and government of the Netherlands on behalf of 140 million Indians for their support and goodwill towards the Indian community.
He mentioned that the experiences of Indian families settled abroad are not just accounts of migration but stories of perseverance and progress achieved through numerous hardships, noting that despite crossing oceans and living far from their homeland, generations of Indians have maintained a vibrant cultural identity. The Prime Minister said that while many civilizations and traditions have faded with the passage of time, India’s rich and diverse culture continues to flourish in the hearts of its people across the world.
He also praised the Indian diaspora in the Netherlands for maintaining their linguistic and cultural heritage. He specifically praised the country’s community radio stations for promoting Indian traditions and music and helping younger generations stay connected to their roots.
“Generations have changed, countries have changed, environments…but family values have not changed, the sense of belonging has not changed. Because you have not abandoned your ancestral language. You have adopted Dutch, but you have not abandoned your ancestral languages either. Our community radios are very popular here. Through them, Indian music and culture also reaches Dutch families.”, PM Modi.
