PM Modi Calls for Collective Action to Address Social Challenges and Strengthen National Unity
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 23, 2026, called for collective efforts to address social challenges, counter divisive forces and strengthen the spirit of self-reliance. He made these remarks while inaugurating the Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Global Sammelan at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The three-day event celebrates 75 years of the Chinmaya Mission, an organisation dedicated to spreading the teachings of Vedanta and the Bhagavad Gita in India and around the world.
Addressing the gathering, Modiji emphasised that changing times bring new challenges that require cooperation among citizens, institutions and communities. He highlighted the importance of social harmony, shared responsibility and active public participation in achieving national objectives. His message underscored the role of collective action in building a stronger society and advancing India's ambition of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Chinmaya Mission's Contribution to India's Spiritual and Cultural Heritage
Founded by Swami Chinmayananda in 1951, the Chinmaya Mission has played a significant role in making India's spiritual and philosophical traditions accessible to people across generations. Through its educational institutions, study groups, spiritual programmes and community initiatives, the organisation has helped introduce the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta to audiences in India and abroad.
During his address, Modiji recalled his meeting with Swami Chinmayananda in 1993 and acknowledged the spiritual leader's contribution to spreading Indian philosophical thought. He also interacted with a holographic digital representation, known as a 'holobot', of the late spiritual leader. The initiative demonstrated how modern technology can be used to preserve cultural memories and introduce influential figures from India's heritage to younger audiences.
The 75th-anniversary celebrations brought together thousands of participants from India and overseas, reflecting the Mission's international presence. The occasion also highlighted the importance of carrying forward India's spiritual and cultural traditions while making them relevant to contemporary society.
Youth Empowerment and the Vision of Viksit Bharat 2047
The Prime Minister placed particular emphasis on the role of young people in shaping India's future. He praised the efforts of young volunteers associated with the Chinmaya Amrit Yatra, who travelled approximately 40,000 kilometres over nearly 300 days and reached more than one lakh young people. Their efforts focused on connecting younger generations with Indian values, cultural traditions and the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.
Modiji linked youth participation with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, which aims to transform India into a developed nation by the centenary of its independence. Achieving this goal requires sustained contributions from citizens, educational institutions, cultural organisations and communities. Encouraging young people to develop knowledge, skills, leadership qualities and a sense of responsibility remains an important part of this national ambition.
The Chinmaya Mission's own centenary will also coincide with the year 2047, creating a meaningful connection between its long-standing educational and spiritual work and India's development aspirations. The Prime Minister encouraged the organisation to continue inspiring young people and contributing to the country's progress.
Education, Indian Knowledge Systems and Modern Technology
Modiji also highlighted the importance of the National Education Policy in connecting India's traditional knowledge with modern learning. The policy promotes Indian Knowledge Systems alongside scientific education, technological development and greater opportunities for learning in Indian languages. This approach aims to help students understand their cultural heritage while preparing them for the demands of a rapidly changing world.
The Prime Minister's remarks reflected the importance of an education system that combines academic excellence with cultural awareness and practical skills. Institutions and organisations such as the Chinmaya Mission can contribute to this objective by encouraging students to explore Indian philosophy, develop critical thinking and engage with contemporary challenges.
The integration of heritage and modern education also creates opportunities to use digital tools and innovative teaching methods to reach wider audiences. By connecting traditional ideas with new forms of learning, India can strengthen cultural awareness while supporting innovation and future-ready education.
Preserving India's Cultural Heritage
The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of safeguarding India's historical and cultural legacy. During his address, he referred to the return of more than 650 stolen ancient idols to India over the preceding 12 years. Such efforts contribute to the recovery of cultural objects and help preserve the country's historical and artistic heritage for future generations.
India's cultural traditions, historical monuments and spiritual institutions remain important elements of its national identity. Their preservation also creates opportunities for education, research and international cultural engagement. Initiatives that introduce Indian traditions to global audiences, including the international promotion of yoga and Indian philosophical teachings, have helped expand awareness of the country's heritage.
The Chinmaya Mission's work complements these efforts by sharing India's spiritual traditions through educational programmes, publications and community activities. Its 75-year journey demonstrates how cultural institutions can contribute to preserving knowledge while making it accessible to people across different generations and countries.
The MGMM Outlook
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address at the Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Global Sammelan in New Delhi highlighted the importance of collective responsibility, social harmony and national unity in addressing emerging challenges. Celebrating 75 years of the Chinmaya Mission, the event recognised its contribution to spreading the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta across India and the world. Modiji also emphasised the role of youth in advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, noting the importance of cultural awareness, education and active public participation in building a developed nation.
India’s progress depends on combining its rich civilisational heritage with modern education, technological innovation and responsible citizenship. The Chinmaya Mission’s initiatives to connect young people with Indian values demonstrate how cultural institutions can contribute to national development while preserving traditional knowledge for future generations. Efforts to safeguard historical artefacts, promote Indian Knowledge Systems and encourage youth participation can further strengthen the country’s cultural identity and social cohesion. Collective action by citizens, educational institutions and community organisations will remain essential to building a united, self-reliant and developed India.
(Sources: Business Standard, DD India)
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