"This time belongs to you; your effort, vision, capability to take India to new heights": PM Modi

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday interacted with NCC cadets, NSS volunteers, and performers who are a part of this year's Republic Day programme and asked them to strengthen their resolve to achieve the goal of a 'Developed Nation'. Addressing the NCC and NSS members, the PM said that the next 25 years are very critical for the country, as it has resolved to be a developed nation by 2047.
"Your generation calls itself Gen Z. However, I believe you are the 'Amrit Peedhi' - because your energy will give pace to Amrit Kaal. You are aware that our country has decided to become a developed nation by 2047. The next 25 years are very critical for you and the country, are very critical. I said from the ramparts of the Red Fort, "Yahi samay hai, Sahi samay hai. This time belongs to you... Your effort, vision, and capability will take India to new heights," the PM said. PM Modi also said that the 'Nation First' should be the guiding principle of the youth.
"Our resolve is that every dream of your Amrit generation should be fulfilled. In this journey of Amrit Kaal, always remember that whatever you do, you need to do for the country. 'Nation First' should be your guiding principle. This very time will determine your and the country's future. You need to strengthen your resolve so that we can achieve the goal of a 'Developed Nation'. You need to expand your knowledge..." he added.
He also urged them to share their memorable experiences of participating in the Republic Day Parade with him on the NaMo app. "Please do me a favour. Write down your experience of this parade and keep it with you and the second one- what did you learn from the Republic Day, send me a recorded video of that. Through the NaMo app, the young generation can remain connected with me and you too, can tell the world that 'I keep PM Modi in my pocket' when you keep your phone with you," the PM said. Further, lauding the contribution of the women of the country, PM Modi said that they have laid the foundation of many big changes with their mettle and spirit of dedication.
"This is the first time that Republic Day parade is dedicated to the 'nari shakti' of the country. Today, I am seeing daughters from different parts of the country gathered here. You have not come alone here; you have brought along the essence of your state, the experience of customs and traditions, and the rich thinking of your society. Meeting you all today becomes a special occasion as today is 'Rashtriya Balika Diwas'. Today is the day to sing praises for the passion and achievements of daughters," PM Modi said, adding that the daughters of India have laid the foundation of many big changes with their mettle and spirit of dedication in different periods of history. He also said that his government has created new opportunities for girls who want to build careers in Defence Forces. "Today, girls can get admitted in Sainik Schools. You need to move forward with full confidence...Like you, I have also been in the NCC. I have come among you through the same path. I know that institutions like NCC, NSS or cultural camp make the youth aware of society and civic duties," he added.