PM’s address at Veer Bal Diwas programme
Speaker: Narendra Modi
Date: 26 Dec, 2023

All the distinguished Union Ministers, ladies and gentlemen present here today! Today, the nation commemorates the enduring sacrifice of the courageous Sahibzadas, drawing inspiration from their indomitable spirit. In the ‘Azaadi Ka Amritkaal,’ a new chapter unfolds in the form of Veer Bal Diwas. Last year marked the inaugural celebration of Veer Bal Diwas on December 26, when the entire nation resonated with the heroic tales of the Sahibzadas, evoking profound emotions. Veer Bal Diwas symbolizes the unwavering commitment to go to any lengths to safeguard the essence of Indianness. This day reminds us that the pinnacle of bravery is not constrained by age. This festival reminds us of that great heritage, where the Guru used to say – सूरा सो पहचानिए, जो लरै दीन के हेत, पुरजा-पुरजा कट मरै, कबहू ना छाडे खेत! The valour and ideals of Mata Gujri, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, and their four Sahibzadas continue to instil strength in every Indian. Veer Bal Diwas stands as the nation’s authentic tribute to the unparalleled bravery of these true heroes and the mothers who brought them into the world. Today, I am commemorating and paying tribute to the martyrdom of Baba Moti Ram Mehra and his family, and the devotion of Diwan Todarmal. They were an epitome of profound devotion towards our Gurus that ignites the spirit of patriotism. My family members, I am elated that Veer Bal Diwas is now being celebrated at the international level too. This year, events related to Veer Bal Diwas are being organized in various countries such as America, Britain, Australia, New Zealand, UAE, and Greece. The global community will gain a deeper understanding of the brave Sahibzadas of Bharat and draw inspiration from their noble deeds. The events of the Chamkaur and Sirhind battles three hundred years ago are etched in indelible history—an unmatched narrative that must not be forgotten. Reminding future generations of this history is crucial. Even in the darkest times of injustice and oppression, we, as Indians, refused to succumb to despair. Our ancestors of every era made the supreme sacrifice, choosing to die for this soil rather than living for themselves. Friends, Until we showed respect to our heritage, the world also didn’t show appreciation for our heritage. Today, as we take pride in our heritage, the global perspective has shifted. Bharat is coming out of the slave mentality. The present-day Bharat places complete faith in its people, capabilities, and inspiration. The sacrifice of the Sahibzadas serves as a national inspiration for contemporary Bharat. The sacrifices of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and Govind Guru also inspire the entire nation. When a country advances with pride in its heritage, the world views it with respect. Friends, The world now recognizes Bharat as a land of opportunities. Bharat is currently at a stage where it is actively contributing to resolving major global challenges. In fields such as the economy, science, research, sports, and policy-strategy, Bharat is reaching new heights. As I declared from the ramparts of the Red Fort – this is the time; this is the right time. This is Bharat’s time. The next 25 years will showcase the zenith of Bharat’s potential. To achieve this, we must adhere to five principles and strengthen our national character. Every moment is precious, and we cannot afford to waste any time. The Gurus imparted this lesson to us then, and it remains relevant even today. We must live for the honour of this soil, striving to make our country better. As the children of this great nation, we must live, unite, strive, and emerge victorious to make the country developed. My family members, Today, Bharat finds itself in a momentous era, an era which arrives once in a lifetime! In this ‘Azaadi Ka Amritkaal’ various factors have come together to pave the way for the nation’s illustrious future. Bharat stands as one of the countries globally with the youngest population. Bharat was not so young even at the time of its freedom struggle. The potential of this vast youth power, evident in its role in achieving independence, holds boundless possibilities for the nation’s progress. Bharat is a land where a child, like Nachiketa passionately seeks knowledge, where Abhimanyu at a tender age tries to break open the formidable Chakravyuh, and where child Dhruva’s rigorous penance remains unmatched. Bharat is a country where young Chandragupta steps forward to lead an empire, and where a disciple like Ekalavya performs extraordinary deeds to give Dakshina to his Guru. Heroes like Khudiram Bose, Batukeshwar Dutt, Kanaklata Barua, Rani Gaidinliu, and Baji Rout, who sacrificed everything for the nation, exemplify the unparalleled motivation that fuels a nation’s ability to achieve any goal. That’s why I have complete trust in today’s children and today’s youth. They are the leaders of the future leaders of Bharat. The remarkable martial arts skills displayed by these talented boys and girls here underscore the immense potential of Bharat’s courageous youth. My family members, The next 25 years will bring vast opportunities for our youngsters. The youth of Bharat, irrespective of which region or society they are born in, have limitless dreams. To fulfil these dreams, the government has chalked out a clear roadmap, clear vision, clear policy. There is no flaw in its intentions. The National Education Policy formulated by Bharat today will develop new capabilities in the youth of the 21st century. Today, 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs are igniting a new passion for innovation and research in our students. Speaking of the Start-up Bharat Campaign, in 2014, very few people were acquainted with the startup culture in our country. Today there are 1.25 lakh new startups in Bharat. These startups reflect the dreams, the innovations, and the passion of the youth. Through the Mudra Yojana, over 8 crore youngsters, including those from rural, poor, Dalit, backward, tribal, and deprived classes, have started their own businesses, transforming their destinies. These youngsters did not even have any guarantee to give to the banks. Modi became their guarantee; our government became their ally. We asked the banks to give Mudra loans to the youth fearlessly. Crores of youth have transformed their destiny by receiving Mudra loans worth lakhs of crores of rupees. Friends, Today our players are making new records in every international event. Most of these youngsters are from villages, towns, poor and lower middle-class families. They are receiving better sports facilities near their homes under the Khelo Bharat campaign. Proper arrangements are being made for a transparent selection process and modern training. Therefore, the sons and daughters of the village poor are also enhancing the glory of the tricolour. The prioritization of youth interests is yielding phenomenal results. Friends, When I speak of making Bharat the third-largest economy, the primary beneficiaries will be the youth of our nation. Being the third-largest economic power means better health, better education. Being the third-largest economic power means more opportunities, more employment and an overall elevation in the quality of life and quality of products. Our youth must paint a picture on an extensive canvas of what a developed Bharat will be like in the year 2047. The government stands steadfast as a friend and partner. A nationwide campaign is underway to combine the suggestions and resolutions of the youth for building a developed Bharat. I would again urge all the youngsters to share their suggestions related to developed Bharat on MyGov. The government has created another major platform, an organization to bring the youth power of the country on a single platform. This is organization or platform is called ‘Mera Yuva Bharat’ i.e. MY Bharat. This significant platform is turning into a massive organization for the young daughters and sons of the nation. During the ongoing Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, lakhs of youngsters are registering themselves on the MY Bharat platform. I once again urge all the youngsters to register on MY Bharat. My family members, On Veer Bal Diwas, I urge all the youth of the country to prioritize their health. A fit youth will not only excel in life but also in his career. Indian youth must establish rules for themselves regarding physical exercise, inclusion of superfood millets in their diet, digital detox practices, attention to mental fitness, and sufficient sleep. There are many such questions which pose a challenge before today’s young generation. There is another grave issue, which as a nation, as a society, we need to pay attention to. This is the problem of addiction and drugs. It requires the concerted efforts of families, society, and the government. We need to save the youth of Bharat from this problem. On this Veer Bal Diwas, I call upon religious leaders and social institutions to lead a mass movement against drugs in the country. Everyone’s contribution is essential to create a capable and strong youth force, a lesson taught to us by our gurus. It is with this spirit of ‘Sabka Prayas’ or concerted efforts that Bharat will become developed. I conclude my speech by paying homage to the great Guru tradition and the brave Sahibzadas who have elevated martyrdom to new heights. Best wishes to all of you! Waahe Guruji Ka Khalsa! Waahe Guruji Ki Fateh!