Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted an event on the occasion of Christmas on Monday at his residence in the national capital. During an interaction with members of the community at his residence on Christmas, Prime Minister Modi praised the community for its continuous contributions in the health and education sectors, running institutions that have made a substantial impact nationwide.
In the interaction with the members of the community at his residence here on Christmas, Modi recalled his old, intimate, and warm relations with Christians since his days as the Gujarat Chief Minister. He said they have always been at the forefront in serving the poor and deprived.
Many thinkers and leaders from the community were part of the country’s freedom struggle, he added. Educational and healthcare institutions run by the community continue to make a significant contribution across India.
Modi highlighted that Jesus Christ’s life message was centred on compassion and service. He worked for an inclusive society where justice was for all. These values serve as a “guiding light” in his government’s development journey, the Prime Minister noted, mentioning that the Upanishads, considered the fount of Hindu philosophy, also focus on realising the absolute truth like the Bible.
Some leading Christian community members also spoke on the occasion and praised different initiatives of the Modi Government.
In his remarks, Modi suggested that people can focus on their shared values and heritage to move forward. The spirit of cooperation and coordination, coupled with the ethos of “sabka prayas,” can take the country to new heights.
He mentioned that the Pope sought Jesus Christ’s blessings for those working to end poverty.
The Pope’s words reflect the same spirit visible in the BJP-led government’s development mantra of “sabka sath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas, sabka prayas.”
Modi stated that his government ensures that development reaches everyone, benefiting Christians, especially the poor and deprived. He asked Christian community leaders to spread the word about his government’s programmes aimed at youngsters, such as “Fit India,” the use of millets, and the campaign against drugs.
Noting the community’s social consciousness, Modi said Christians can play an important role in his government’s environmental campaigns to ensure a minimal carbon footprint and promote a sustainable lifestyle. He also sought their support for his “Vocal for Local” programme.
The Prime Minister recalled his 2021 meeting with Pope Francis, describing it as a memorable moment where they discussed means to make the earth a better place and issues of social harmony, global brotherhood, climate change, and inclusive development.
He expressed the wish that the festive season further strengthens the country, brings citizens closer, and enhances the bond that keeps them together amid their diversity. Modi has been making concerted efforts to reach out to Christians. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been organising campaigns to connect with the community during its festivals, especially in states like Kerala, where they are in large numbers.
The Prime Minister has cited the party’s poll performance in the northeastern States, where Christians live in large numbers, as evidence of its growing acceptability among them.
