anirudhsankar/PMIndia-SpeechDataset-2004-2024 huggingface dataset:
PM renames Leh Airport
Speaker: Dr.Manmohan Singh
Date: June 10, 2005 Leh

PM renames Leh Airport Hindi Version Ladies and Gentlemen, It gives me great pleasure to name the Leh Airport as the Kushok Bakula Airport. In doing so we pay tribute to the memory of the Most Venerable Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, the architect of Modern Ladakh. Lama Kushok Bakula was a great saint, a teacher, a patriot, a beloved leader, a true Buddhist and, above all, a great Indian. It is only appropriate that we name this airport, the link between the High Himalayas and the world below, after this son of Ladakh and this man of God. Bakula Rinpoche, as he was widely known, was a unique Lama of great talent and exceptional gifts. He was revered for his erudition, his dedication to the education of a new generation of young monks and nuns, his gentle humility and his wisdom and compassion. As a citizen of our Republic, he was deeply engaged with a number of welfare and minorities' right issues, not just here in Ladakh, but across the country. He championed the cause of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and Minorities. He was an active participant in the democratic political life of the State of Jammu and Kashmir. He provided leadership in the creation of a system of modern education in Ladakh. He was also a distinguished diplomat. As a devout Buddhist, he helped the cause of peace and spread the message of the Gautama Buddha and many great Buddhists. By renaming this airport after this great son of Ladakh we are also committing ourselves to improving the connectivity between Ladakh and the rest of the country. Our Government is committed to the modernization of our infrastructure across the length and breadth of our vast sub-continent. From the islands of the Bay of Bengal to the Himalayan mountains, we will invest in the modernization of our airports, railways, roads, ports, waterways and telecom infrastructure. This will ensure that the emotional and economic integration of our country is better enabled. We will also invest in the development of social infrastructure. Better schools, better hospitals and urban facilities. I hope the modernization of Leh airport will bring more tourists, investors, scholars and men of peace and piety to this remote corner of our country. I hope it opens the gateways of prosperity for this region. I am sure the proud and valiant people of Ladakh will share my sense of joy today in the naming of this airport after a great leader of the Ladakhi people. Jai Hind
PM's statement on the Election Commission
Speaker: Dr.Manmohan Singh
Date: May 10, 2005 New Delhi

PM's statement on the Election Commission Hindi Version "I have learnt from the media regarding the controversy generated by a letter regarding the conduct of Election Commissioners during the last Lok Sabha elections. The Law Minister has gone on record that he has not received any such letter. The Election Commission is a Constitutional Body which has played a critical and positive role in the successful functioning of our democracy. Since Independence, it has had an impeccable track record of conducting elections and is widely respected for its work. India today is emerging on the global scenario as a confident, progressive and rapidly growing economy, which has managed to build a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and multi-religious society within a democratic framework. It is this success of India in harmoniously managing the dual processes of economic development and democratic governance which is being seen by many as a role model for the world. In this context, it is important that the entire nation understands the importance of Constitutional institutions such as the Election Commission for their contribution to earning India the respect and admiration of the world. It is incumbent on all to ensure that the essential institutions of a democratic framework are respected, their sanctity maintained and their autonomy preserved in a manner which will ensure that they continue to contribute to our democratic life. This responsibility vests both in those within the institutions and in those outside. It is in this perspective that all issues should be examined. Nothing should be done which can lead to an unwanted weakening of our democratic institutional fabric."
PM's Statement on Departure to Moscow
Speaker: Dr.Manmohan Singh
Date: May 8, 2005 New Delhi

PM's Statement on Departure to Moscow Hindi Version The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, left for Moscow today to participate in the 60th anniversary of 'Victory Day'. Dr. Singh is likely to meet the Presidents of Kazakhstan, Tajikstan and Romania, apart from holding discussions with the Russian President, Vladmir Putin. Following is the statement made by the Prime Minister on his departure to Moscow: "I am leaving for Moscow to participate in the commemorative events being organised by the Russian Federation to mark the 60th Anniversary of 'Victory Day'. India will be present along with several important countries at this commemorative event. On this occasion, we recall the immense sacrifices made by Russia and other allied countries in defeating the forces Fascism and Nazism in the Second World War. Several thousand Indian troops also laid down their lives in this cause. We attach the highest importance to our relations with Russia, which has been a tried and tested friend, and has stood by us in times of need. I look forward to my meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Our discussions will aim to build upon the successful visit of President Putin to India in December last year and the common objective we share of further consolidating our relations of strategic partnership. The high momentum that characterizes our relations will be further demonstrated by the fact that the Rashtrapathiji will be a paying a State Visit to the Russian Federation later this month. I also hope to use the opportunity of this occasion to have meetings with a number of leaders who will be in Moscow, including with the Presidents of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Romania."
PM's speech at  launching of National Project for Repair, Renovation and Restoration of Water Bodies
Speaker: Dr.Manmohan Singh
Date: April 30, 2005 Chhattisgarh

PM's speech at  launching of National Project for Repair, Renovation and Restoration of Water Bodies The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh launched the National Project for Repair, Renovation and Restoration of Water Bodies directly linked to Agriculture at Bhoramdeo in Kabirdham district, Chhattisgarh on April 30, 2005. In his speech the Prime Minister highlighted the social and economic importance of preserving and rejuvenating rural water bodies. Text of Speech in Hindi
PM's speech at flagging off the Srinagar-Muzzafarabad bus service
Speaker: Dr.Manmohan Singh
Date: April 7, 2005 Srinagar

PM's speech at flagging off the Srinagar-Muzzafarabad bus service Hindi Version Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress President and NAC Chairperson  Sonia Gandhi today flagged off the historic Srinagar-Muzzafarabad bus service. Addressing the rally Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said this is the first step on the long road of peace. The road ahead is quite difficult. But if we remain committed, we can find solutions to all issues in a spirit of friendship and cooperation.
PM's Departure Statement on visit to Mauritius
Speaker: Dr.Manmohan Singh
Date: March 30, 2005 New Delhi

PM's Departure Statement on visit to Mauritius Hindi Version " I am visiting Mauritius at the official invitation of Mr. Paul Raymond Berenger, Prime Minister of the Republic of Mauritius. I will be calling on President Sir Anerood Jugnauth as well as addressing the Mauritian National Assembly. I will be meeting the Leader of Opposition, Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. India and Mauritius enjoy traditional bonds of friendship and kinship founded on a historical and shared cultural heritage. My visit is intended to further strengthen the vast framework of our bilateral interactions with the objective of deepening and widening in every possible way our special and unique relationship with Mauritius. In this context, I hope to discuss with the Mauritian leadership, ways of further deepening the economic content of our relations through the early conclusion of negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement. Aspects related to strengthening our cooperation in defence and security areas, including counter terrorism, human resource development, air links and cultural contacts are also expected to figure in our discussions. India has provided support and assistance to Mauritius to emerge as a knowledge hub. The Chairperson of UPA, Smt. Sonia Gandhi, inaugurated the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre during her visit to Mauritius on November 28 last year. The Cyber Tower at Ebene constructed with Indian assistance to strengthen the capacities of Mauritius in the field of information and communication technology will be inaugurated during my visit. I look forward to an exchange of views on regional and international issues on which both countries have traditionally shared common perceptions. We see Mauritius as a friendly gateway to the African continent and an invaluable partner at multilateral fora."
PM's statement in the Rajya Sabha on the US denial of visa to the Gujarat Chief Minister
Speaker: Dr.Manmohan Singh
Date: March 19, 2005 New Delhi

PM's statement in the Rajya Sabha on the US denial of visa to the Gujarat Chief Minister Hindi Version Mr. Chairman, Sir, I share the concern that has been expressed in this matter on all sides of the House. When I came to know of the denial of visa to Shri Modi, yesterday, I immediately instructed our External Affairs Minister to call the US Ambassador and explain to them that we are greatly concerned and we greatly regret the decision that has been taken by the United States Government. Sir, the Government has taken note of developments arising from the decision of the Government of the United States of America to deny the request of the Chief Minister of Gujarat , Shri Narendra Modi, for a government visa. The Government is also greatly concerned by the further decision of the United States to revoke other categories of visas already issued to Shri Modi. Hon. Members of this August house would be aware of the fact that our Foreign Secretary , yesterday summoned the Deputy Chief of the U.S. Mission in New Delhi to convey strong demarche on the decision of the U.S. Government . Our Government has clearly pointed out our very deep concern and regret over the U.S. decision to deny a visa to a constitutionally elected Chief Minister of a state of our Union. We have observed that this uncalled for decision betrays a lack of sensitivity and due courtesy to an elected authority. The U.S. Government has been clearly told of our concern at this development. We have also called for the urgent re-consideration of this decision by the United States Government. Mr. Chairman, Sir, the American Government has also been clearly informed that while we respect their sovereign right to grant or refuse visas to any person, we do not believe that it is appropriate to use allegations or anything less than due process to make a subjective judgment to question a constitutional authority in India. Sir, we agree that this is not a matter of partisan politics, but rather a matter of concern over a point of principle. I think , the Government's prompt and firm response clearly shows our principled stand in this matter. Thank You.
Prime Minister's Appeal
Speaker: Dr.Manmohan Singh
Date: December 28, 2004 New Delhi

Prime Minister's Appeal Hindi Version My Fellow Citizens, You are all aware that an unprecedented natural calamity has wreaked death and destruction in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the States of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Pondichery and Tamil Nadu. Thousands of people have died in this disaster caused by a tsunami wave triggered by an earthquake. We have all seen pictures of agony, pain, trauma and of the dislocation of life and loss of property. We have also been witness to the tragedy in our neighbouring  countries including the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Thailand. The government will do whatever is required and expected of it to provide relief and assist in rehabilitation. I am sure each one of us will voluntarily extend help and support to the best of our ability. It is at times like these that the best in us comes out and the human spirit transcends all adversity. I appeal to all citizens to strengthen the hands of our Government in dealing with this tragedy and donate generously to the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Manmohan Singh Payment may be made by  cheque or draft in the name of "The Prime Minister's National Relief Fund" and sent to the Prime Minister's Office, South Block, New Delhi 110011. As per directions on the subject the nationalised banks are not to charge any commission on preparation of drafts favouring the PMNRF. Contributions can also be made directly at the branches of all banks in the country. Donations can also be sent through Money Orders with no commission chargeable. Contributions to the PMNRF have been notified for 100% deduction from taxable income under section 80(G) of the Income tax act.
Prime Minister's statement on the Tsunami Tidal Wave calamity
Speaker: Dr.Manmohan Singh
Date: December 26, 2004 New Delhi

Prime Minister's statement on the Tsunami Tidal Wave calamity Hindi Version "Early this morning, I learnt with deep shock of the devastation caused by an earthquake in the Andaman seas, and the consequent tidal waves in the Andaman and Nicobar islands and our eastern coast. I have received reports of extensive loss of life, severe damage to public and private property and disruption of communications. I am deeply distressed by the large scale devastation that has been wrought. My heartfelt sympathies are with the families of the bereaved, and with all those affected in our country. I have spoken to the Chief Ministers of the affected States, to assure them of all possible Central support and assistance in the relief and rehabilitation effort. The Defence and Home Ministers have been asked to alert the armed forces and paramilitary forces, who are already assisting in providing relief to all those who have been affected in the disaster. The Cabinet Secretary has taken a meeting of the Crisis Management Group, and all Government departments are on alert to provide the maximum possible assistance. I have deputed two of my Cabinet colleagues, Shri Mani Shankar Aiyar, and Shri Dayanidhi Maran, to survey the affected areas and co-ordinate relief and rescue efforts. The Home Minister is also visiting the affected areas shortly. At this juncture, I would appeal to all citizens in the affected coastal districts to remain calm, and to assist wherever possible in the provision of relief. There is no cause whatsoever for alarm, as the situation is being monitored very closely. I have also sent messages of sympathy to the Presidents of Maldives, Indonesia and Sri Lanka, as well as the Prime Minister of Thailand, where reports of heavy damage are coming in. India also stands ready to assist these friendly nations, should our help be required".
PM's remarks at Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Lecture
Speaker: Dr.Manmohan Singh
Date: December 3, 2004 New Delhi

PM's remarks at Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Lecture Hindi Version "We all feel honoured and privileged to welcome in our midst His Excellency the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin. Mr. President, your visit to India is yet another milestone in the long journey of peace and friendship that our two nations have traveled together. Russia and India have known each other for centuries and the people of our two countries have developed over these long years a feeling of mutual regard and affection that is deep and binding. There is no doubt that with time and progress our relations have evolved. What is deeply satisfying is the fact that this evolution has only deepened and broadened the relationship and strengthened its unshakeable foundations. I believe an important reason for this profound truth is the fact that the relationship between India and Russia is not merely one between States and governments but is in fact defined and shaped by the interaction between peoples and cultures. No one captured this aspect of our relationship more knowledgeably than Jawaharlal Nehru. In his many books, his many essays, his innumerable speeches and letters, Panditji revealed a profound understanding of the life, the passions, the aspirations, the struggle, the intellectual and cultural contributions and the scientific and technological prowess of the Russian people. In his letters written in 1930s to his teenage daughter Panditji paid tribute to the literary and artistic heritage of Russia. To Russian ballet, to Russian art and above all Russian literature. He was profoundly influenced by Gogol, Dostoevsky, Tchekov, Gorky and, of course, Leo Tolstoy, whom he described as "perhaps the greatest of them all... a genius at writing novels, but also a religious and spiritual leader whose influence was far-reaching". Every Indian knows the friendship between Tolstoy and Mahatma Gandhi. It is, your Excellency, on such intellectual and cultural foundations that the relationship between our two Nations has been built. We in India are deeply grateful to the people of Russia for their generosity and for their solidarity. Our journey as an independent Republic has been greatly enabled by the economic, scientific and technological support and cooperation your people and government have so generously extended to us. India and the Indian people will always remember this with profound gratitude. Today, it is a matter of great pride that you are here to deliver the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Lecture. It is a fitting way to pay tribute to the man who saw long before many statesmen and world leaders the profound impact Russia and the Russian people would have on world affairs in the 20th Century. As we enter a new Century we must work together to realize the dream of Panditji of creating a world in which all people and all Nations live in peace and with dignity. A world in which countries like Russia and India regain their rightful place and realize their chosen destiny.
Remarks of PM at flag off of India-ASEAN Rally
Speaker: Dr.Manmohan Singh
Date: November 30, 2004 Vientiane Laos

Remarks of PM at flag off of India-ASEAN Rally "I had the pleasure to be present at the commencement of the First India-ASEAN Car Rally in Guwahati, the capital of the Indian state of Assam on November 22. While flagging off this event, I said that in organizing this rally we are doing more than setting in motion a rally that will go through nine countries, traversing over 8,000 kilometers through some of the most picturesque regions of the world. I expressed the hope and confidence that this Car Rally will capture the imagination of our people, in demonstrating the essential oneness of our integrated region. I see this Car Rally as a journey into the future, demonstrating the possibilities that can come about in trade, tourism, and people-to-people contact by bringing our countries together. It gives me great pleasure to see and experience once again the high spirit of adventure and sport among the participants of this Rally gathered here to day, as you prepare to proceed to the final leg of the rally to Indonesia. All of you are pioneers in knitting our countries together. In future such overland travel will become commonplace, as it was centuries ago. But today there are considerable hurdles for overland travel, and I am glad that this Rally proves to the world at large that difficulties can be overcome. Our region and Asia as a whole, are marching with confidence to meet the challenges of the future. Our countries are endowed with tremendous human talent and natural resources. The challenge before us is to put in place cooperative regional activities that will promote development and collective security for all our people. This is an era of globalization wherein inter-connectivity, whether within a region or between regions, has to be comprehensive. It has to encompass and integrate the human, infrastructural, economic, technological and cultural dimensions. Our growing interaction with ASEAN is critical to fulfilling the promise of the 21st Century being an Asian Century. By building such bridges of understanding and interaction will we increase and widen the circles of prosperity and growth. The Third India-ASEAN summit, which has just been concluded, will be seen as a milestone in this journey of common destiny. I wish to express my appreciation for all those who have contributed to this Car Rally. I wish the participants of the First India-ASEAN Car Rally all success, safe driving and a happy arrival at your destination."
India - Pakistan Joint Statement
Speaker: Dr.Manmohan Singh
Date: September 24, 2004 New York

India - Pakistan Joint Statement Hindi Version President Musharraf and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh had one hour meeting this morning. Their discussions were held in a constructive and frank spirit. They welcomed the opportunity of making each other's acquaintance during the first meeting. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to continue the bilateral dialogue to restore normalcy and cooperation between India and Pakistan. They agreed that confidence building measures (CBMs) of all categories under discussion between the two governments should be implemented keeping in mind practical possibilities. They also addressed the issue of Jammu and Kashmir and agreed that possible options for a peaceful, negotiated settlement of the issue should be explored in a sincere spirit and purposeful manner. In the spirit of the Islamabad joint press statement of January 6, 2004, they agreed that CBMs will contribute to generating an atmosphere of trust and mutual understanding so necessary for the well being of the peoples of both countries. The possibility of a gas pipeline via Pakistan to India was also discussed. It was felt that such a project could contribute to the welfare and prosperity of the people of both countries and should be considered in the larger context of expanding trade and economic relations between India and Pakistan.