PM Modi's 9/11 Speech: All about love, harmony and an urgent call to the Youth

Marking the 125th anniversary of Swami Vivekananda's address at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago, as Narendra Modi took to the stage earlier today to deliver a speech on the theme “Young India, New India”, he urged young Indian minds to work for a modern India.

"On 11 September, 1983, just with a few words, a youngster from India won over the world and showed the world the power of oneness," Modi said, while addressing students across the country from the Vigyan Bhawan stage in the national capital.

While most people around the globe remember 9/11 for the ghastly terror attacks in 2001 which shook the United States of America, Modi said people in India remember 9/11 for a different reason... because of the dynamism and bold leadership of Swamiji.

Vivekananda supported experimentation and innovation and his government worked according to the ideals shown by him. While asking students to follow these ideals, Modi batted strongly for innovation and promoting skills among the youth.

He also said Swami Vivekananda gave the concept of ‘One Asia’ to the world. The solutions to world’s problems will only come from Asia - were Swamiji's words back then.

Speaking of a United India, the Prime Minister said - “People celebrate different events in colleges… some celebrate Rose day. While some may be opposed to it, I am not. "Does a college in Haryana ever think about celebrating Tamil Day in college, or a college in Punjab celebrate Kerala day? There is no better place for creativity and innovation than university campuses.” Celebrating such days in college universities, he said, will lead to formation of United India.

Modi also instilled his belief of a Cleaner India on the progressiveness and awareness of the youth, and their willingness to work for the cause.

"As I entered, I heard people chanting loudly “Vande Mataram, Vande Mataram!”... Emotions of patriotism fills my heart. But do we have the right to say Vande Mataram?... Indians do not have the right to chant Vande Mataram if they go on to spit pan and throw garbage on roads. Those who clean the roads and surroundings have the first right in the country," the Prime Minister said. He urged students, especially university students, to pitch in to take the 'Clean India Initiative' forward.

As he concluded his speech, his last few encouraging words to students were - There is no better place for creativity and innovation than university campuses... There is no life without creativity... Let our creativity also strengthen our nation and fulfill the aspirations of our people. Remember, India's standing in the world has risen. Janshakti (people's power) can never go defeated....