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‘Election should be fought for nation’s security and development; not to fulfill someone’s wish to become PM’ Vol. 14, No. 07 01-15 APRIL, 2019 (Fortnightly) `20

‘One who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar’

‘Apna Time Aa Gaya Hai and it is time Agenda 2019 – Manohar Parrikar: to turn up with high Josh to a 01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 1 The Leadership Issue The Chief Minister next door voting center near you’ Prime Minister Shri offers last respects to former Goa Chief Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar in Panaji, Goa

BJP National President Shri paying last tributes to Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari paying his last respects to former Goa Chief Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar in Panaji, Goa Shri Manohar Parrikar in Panaji, Goa

BJP National President Shri Amit Shah flanked by UP CM Yogi Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh meeting the general Adityanath and others waving at the gathering in the public at a road show in Lucknow, UP 2 I KAMAL SANDESH‘Vijay I 01-15 Sankalp APRIL, Rally’ 2019 in Agra, UP Fortnightly Magazine Editor Prabhat Jha

Executive Editor Dr. Shiv Shakti Bakshi

Associate Editors Ram Prasad Tripathy Vikash Anand

Creative Editors Vikas Saini Mukesh Kumar

Phone +91(11) 23381428 FAX +91(11) 23387887 PM urges to take ‘Main Bhi Chowkidar’ pledge; People E-mail give thumbs up to the movement [email protected] [email protected] 06 Responding to PM Narendra Modi’s call, netizens gave thumbs Website: www.kamalsandesh.org up to the ‘Main Bhi Chowkidar’ movement. On March 16,...

20 Apna Time Aa Gaya Hai Vaichariki and it is time to turn up A Many-splendoured Personality 12 with high Josh to a voting center near you: Modi SHRADHANJALI Ahead of the 2019 Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar passes away 14 Elections, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has reached... article 08 Pramod Sawant takes oath as new Goa CM and Remembering Dr. Lohia 18 wins trust vote Agenda 2019 – The Leadership Issue 22 Shri Pramod Sawant, 45, was Manohar Parrikar: The Chief Minister next door 26 sworn in as Goa Chief Minister at 2 am on 18 March, 2019 as Institutional respect and Institutional contempt - two the nation mourned his... contrasting approaches 32

Others 09 Modi govt has so far transferred 5,215 India generated record number of jobs in January: EPFO data 10 cr to 26 mn farmers ‘Bilateral relation would continue to grow’ 17 The central government has so far transferred Rs 5,215 crore to over 26 million small and ‘Election should be fought for nation’s security and marginal farmers under the PM-Kisan scheme development; not to fulfill someone’s wish to become PM’ 28 announced in the last month’s interim budget. 130 crore Indians will not forgive or forget the Opposition for their antics: Modi 29 11 33rd GST Council allows builders Four Requests For Democracy 30 to choose between 2 tax rates From Neglected States to the Gateway to South Asia The GST Council on 20 Mar 2019 sought to address builders’ concerns related to their 5 Years of Modi Government in North East 31 inventory of under-construction housing units...

Publisher and Printer: Printed by Dr. Nandkishore Garg, Published by Dr. Nandkishore Garg on behalf of Dr. Mookerjee Smruti Nyas and Printed at HT Media Limited, B-2, Sector-63, Noida (UP)-201307 and Published from PP-66, Subramanya Bharati Marg, New Delhi-110003. Editor - Prabhat Jha. 01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 3 SOCIAL MEDIA CORNER

Chowkidar Narendra Modi @narendramodi Difference between Opposition and BJP is clear. They suspect our army, Opposition insults our forces time and again. we are proud of our army. Their heart I appeal to my fellow Indians- question beats for terrorists, ours beats for the Opposition leaders on their statements. Tell Tiranga. This election, through the them- 130 crore Indians will not forgive or power of your vote, do a surgical strike on the forget the Opposition for their antics. India Congress culture. #JantaMaafNahiKaregi. stands firmly with our forces. #JantaMaafNahiKaregi. — Chowkidar Amit Shah Chowkidar Rajnath Singh @rajnathsingh My best wishes to Dr. Pramod The poll bugle has been sounded for Sawant and his team on taking oath the 17th General Elections. The nation as the Chief Minister of Goa. We are is ready to celebrate the festival of confident that you will take forward democracy. I urge the people of India the vision of #ManoharParrikar Ji to participate in this festival by electing and Goa will continue to progress fulfilling the a government which will transform India into a aspirations of people in the state. ‘New India’. #PhirEkBaarModiSarkar. — Chowkidar Jagat Prakash Nadda Chowkidar Arun Jaitley @arunjaitley Sam Pitroda’s comments show With Nirav Modi’s arrest in London the thinking of Congress. They are the compulsive contrarians’ fakery has playing into the hands of ‘Tukde- again been exposed. This also busts Tukde’ gang. It is high time Congress the fake campaign that the present does some introspection considering Government had anything to do with their bogey of Hindu Terror has also been him. The country is reassured again that whoever busted. #JantaMaafNahiKaregi. cheats India and its institutions cannot get away. — Chowkidar Piyush Goyal

Kamal Sandesh Parivar wishes a very happy (Ram Navami & Vaisakhi ) (14 april)

Courtesy: Social Media to all of its readers

4 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 EDITORIAL should apologise! n extremely disturbing trend in politics is seen to be haunting the country. The attempt to politicise and question the valour of our daring soldiers is becoming a fashion with the leaders of Congress and A its alliance partners. No self respecting nation will accept such misadventure by its political leaders and allow them to make political points at the cost of national dignity and prestige. Congress is consciously allowing its leaders to question the incredible achievements of our security forces in a most outrageous manner while playing with the morale of the security forces. Can anyone even think of playing politics over the martyrdom of our jawans and remarkable achievements of our security forces? Can anyone even think of speaking the language of Pakistan and openly backing its position on terrorism? If anyone can even think on those lines then it only shows a sick mindset which is rotten to the core. Congress has committed the sins which can neither be forgotten nor be forgiven; it has touched its nadir. The statement of Sam Pitroda is not only highly condemnable but represents the Congress mindset. To call the dastardly terror attack in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF jawans were martyred as something ‘normal’ shows the sick and shameful mentality of Sam Pitroda, the most trusted advisor of The statements Congress President Rahul Gandhi. In addition to this he has again insulted the security by Congress forces by demanding proof of the air strikes and terming it as wrong approach to deal leaders and with terrorism. It is now clear why terror attacks were on rise during Congress led UPA rule its allies and why Congress leaders failed to respond to 26/11 Mumbai terror attack. The Congress post Pulwama leadership neither has the courage to respond to terrorism nor does it have the mindset which can fight against terrorism. In fact, today Congress is hijacked by a set of people terror attack who believe in rationalising terrorism and even defending it intellectually. and after It is very unfortunate to note that under Sonia-Rahul duo Congress and its allies have Balakot air- decided to defend even terrorism, ISI and Pakistan in pursuance to their partisan politics. strikes show The derisive remarks of Sam Pitroda against the brave and courageous anti-terror air strikes that Congress by Indian security forces can be seen in line with Rahul Gandhi’s demand for answers on is not only questions being raised by Congress leaders. It is the Congress strategy to raise questions incapable on the success of air-strikes and humiliate the security forces. No one can forget the of fighting shameful statement of Congress leader Navjot Singh Siddhu who derided the air force by terrorism but saying whether it conducted strikes to kill terrorists or to uproot the trees. Senior Congress it can even back leaders like Kapil Sibal and Digvijay Singh openly demanded proofs of the air strikes Pakistan in the while directly questioning the credentials of the air force. People still remember the most hour of crisis. unfortunate statement by another Congress leader BK Hariprasad. Another condemnable statement by Samajwadi Party leader Shri Ramgopal Yadav shows how low these people can stoop to further their political interests while indulging in vote bank politics. The statements by Congress leaders and its allies post Pulwama terror attack and after Balakot air- strikes show that Congress is not only incapable of fighting terrorism but it can even back Pakistan in the hour of crisis. It can go to the extent of acting in contravention to the national interests and to serve its myopic political ends, it can issue statements which can directly and indirectly support even Pakistan. What an irony the nation is witnessing that when the entire world is supporting India’s position, Congress led opposition is working towards bailing out different terror groups, ISI and Pakistan. Congress has shown its incapacity in rising above its partisan politics in national interests. The Congress leadership should immediately apologise to the nation for its misadventure in harming national interests and humiliating the security forces. Rahul Gandhi should apologise without any further delay. In case Congress and its president Rahul Gandhi fail to apologise, the people will teach them a lesson which they will never forget. [email protected]

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 5 organisational activities ‘Main Bhi Chowkidar’ movement PM urges to take ‘Main Bhi Chowkidar’ pledge; People give thumbs up to the movement

esponding to PM Narendra Modi’s call, movement saw participation of people in lakhs of netizens gave thumbs up to the ‘Main Bhi numbers. #MainBhiChowkidar became the top R Chowkidar’ movement. worldwide trend on Twitter on that day. On March 16, 2019 soon after the Prime A day after the launch of ‘Mai Bhi Chowkidar’ Minister Shri Narendra Modi urged the people campaign on social media, Prime Minister Shri to take the ‘Main Bhi Chowkidar’ pledge, the Narendra Modi changed his username from

‘People across country taking pledge to become chowkidar’ People across the country are taking pledge to talking about chowkidar. The entire nation is taking a become ‘chowkidar’ as it is becoming synonymous pledge to be a chowkidar today…Calling a chowkidar with patriotism and honesty, Prime Minister Shri chor repeatedly is an insult to all chowkidars,” . Narendra Modi said on 21 March, 2019 while On the question of Delhi CM Kejriwal, who wrote interacting with 25 lakh watchmen as part of a new on twitter, “Modi ji wants the entire country to become campaign. chowkidar. If you too want your children to become Addressing around 25 lakh security guards via an chowkidar, vote for Modi ji. But if you want to provide audio bridge, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi said a good education for your children and want them to some people were running a disinformation campaign become doctors, engineers, lawyers, vote for honest against ‘chowkidars’ for their vested interests, an and educated AAP candidates.” PM Shri Modi said, apparent reference to Congress’ “chowkidar chor “We have to make our children doctor, engineer, hai” slogan. As part of BJP’s “Main Bhi Chowkidar” soldiers in the army, and also the prime minister of campaign, Shri Modi, during the interaction, said that the country. But we have to keep the ‘samskar’ of a calling a ‘chowkidar’ chor repeatedly was an insult to chowkidar in our children.” all chowkidars. The PM signed off his interaction by saying, He said, “You must have noticed that these days “Maximum languages across the world have everywhere it is you who is being discussed, be it TV understood the word ‘chowkidar’, it seems as if they or social media, be it in India or abroad. Everyone is all have accepted it in their vocabulary.”

6 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 ‘Main Bhi Chowkidar’ movement organisational activities

Narendra Modi to ‘Chowkidar Narendra Modi’. BJP National President Shri Amit Shah also Chowkidar Rajnath Singh followed the Prime Minister to rename his Twitter Our Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi has taken a handle to “Chowkidar Amit Shah”. pledge to transform this country into a ‘New India’ by Minutes after PM Shri Modi and Shri Amit Shah 2022. He is not alone. The entire nation stands by his side. changed their names on Twitter, all BJP leaders, #MainBhiChowkdiar Union Mnisters, Chief Ministers, Karyakartas and Chowkidar Nitin Gadkari lakhs of common people also added “Chowkidar” I am proud to join #MainBhiChowkidar movement. As worldwide to their Twitter account names. Launching the movement PM Shri Narendra a citizen who loves India, I shall do my best to defeat Modi wrote on his twitter account, “Have you corruption, dirt, poverty & terrorism and help create a taken the #MainBhiChowkidar pledge? Your New India which is strong, secure & prosperous. Chowkidar is standing firm and serving the nation. Chowkidar Nirmala Sitharaman But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting Happy to join the #MainBhiChowkidar movement. Shall corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. undertake every effort for building a #NewIndia free of Everyone working hard for the progress of India corruption. Shall work to reach out to all sections of our is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying- society to keep India safe. #MainBhiChowkidar”. PM Shri Narendra Modi used the word Chowkidar Suresh Prabhu ‘Chowkidar’ after he became Prime Minister in “Anyone who is doing his/her bit in getting India free 2014. He has repeated these words in public of dirt, corruption and social-evils is a Chowkidar. rallies and even on Social Media to send a #MainBhiChowkidar... Let’s join the movement and help message that he was a servant of the people in making India a well-governed, secure and prosperous rather than an authority figure in the country what nation.” was the perception earlier. “The one who made cleanliness a moral value... Chowkidar Piyush Goyal he is called Chowkidar #MainBhiChowkidar. “As chowkidars of our nation, we are committed to creating Say with all your heart #ChowkidarPhirSe,” BJP a clean economy by using cashless financial transactions. National President Shri Amit Shah tweeted after The menace of corruption and black money has adversely changing his Twitter name. affected us for decades. Time to eliminate these fora BJP in a statement said that ‘Mai Bhi Chowkidar’ better future.#MainBhiChowkidar #ChowkidarPhirSe”. campaign has been started after extensive surveys and data analysis by BJP strategists who Chowkidar Dharmendra Pradhan feel that Congress’s jibes and campaign are not “As Chowkidars (watchmen) of our nation, we are resonating among the people. “Surveys suggest committed towards safety and security of our people that Congress’s jibes and campaigns are actually and their wealth. Elimination of middlemen and cleaning angering people,” BJP said. of economy has rattled all corrupts in every part of the PM Shri Modi will interact with people from country and today every thief is afraid of Chowkidar”. across the country on March 31 as part of this campaign, the BJP said. Chowkidar Harsh Vardhan The ‘Main Bhi Chowkidar’ module has been “In comparison to 2013, mangrove cover increased by launched on the ‘Narendra Modi Mobile App’ 293 sq km during the tenure of Narendra Modiji-led where people can upload their pictures along with government. While 18 effluent treatment plants were the Prime Minister’s picture and take the pledge. set up to reduce river pollution, 44 real time water Thousands of people showed their support by quality monitoring stations were set up on Ganga and its taking the pledge on the NaMo app and shared it tributaries” #MainBhiChowkidar. on social media.

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 7 organisational activities Pramod Sawant takes oath as new Goa CM and wins trust vote hri Pramod Sawant, 45, was sworn in as Goa While the treasury benches comprised of 11 Chief Minister at 2 am on 18 March, 2019 members of the BJP, three of the MGP, three of S as the nation mourned his predecessor the Goa Forward and three independents, the Shri Manohar Parrikar’s demise. Opposition had 14 members of the Congress and Shri Pramod Sawant took oath along with one from the Nationalist Congress. ministers in his 12-member cabinet that included Former Minister Pandurang Madkaikar, who two deputies. had suffered a paralytic stroke, attended a special Wishing him, Prime Minister Shri Narendra session and was allowed by the Speaker to raise Modi said in a tweet: “Best wishes to Dr. Pramod his hand during voting by sitting in his place. Four Sawant and his team as they begin their journey seats are vacant at the moment — two following towards fulfilling the dreams of the people of Goa. the resignations of two Congress MLAs to join I am sure they will build on the work done in the BJP in October last year, and two due to deaths of last few years and boost Goa’s growth trajectory.” former Deputy Chief Minister Francis D’Souza last BJP National President Shri Amit Shah said in month and Chief Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar. a tweet, “Greetings to the newly sworn-in Chief Both of them succumbed to cancer. Minister of Goa, Dr Pramod Sawant and his team. Shri Sawant broke down while speaking about I am sure that this new leadership will continue to Shri Parrikar. Earlier, he broke down while speaking serve the people of Goa with the same dedication on a condolence motion which was passed and commitment. My best wishes”. unanimously in the State legislative Assembly condoling the death of Shri Parrikar. The motion to condole Shri Parrikar’s demise was moved by BJP MLA Rajesh Patnekar along with the deaths of former Deputy Speaker Vishnu Wagh and former Deputy Chief Minister and MLA Francis D’Souza. “I am sitting here only because of Shri Manohar Parrikar. I became an MLA, Speaker and now Chief Minister because of him,” said Shri Sawant in a choked voice. Overcome by emotion, he paused his speech on several occasions. Speaking on behalf of the BJP legislative party, Wins trust vote Cabinet Minister Shri Mauvin Godinho said that CM Shri Pramod Sawant led BJP coalition the late Chief Minister was a colossal and larger- government won the vote of confidence on the than-life personality. “Difficult to get another floor of the House during a specially convened Manohar Parrikar in this State, who build a modern session of the Goa State legislative Assembly Goa and took the State forward in every aspect on 18 March, 2019. While the government got 20 of government. He is our pride and the State’s votes, the Opposition got 15 in the 36-member tallest leader who served as Defence Minister truncated House of 40. Deputy Speaker Michael and conducted the iconic surgical strikes,” Shri Lobo was in the chair as Speaker Shri Sawant had Godinho said, adding, “His presence was felt in resigned to take over as the Chief Minister of the every decision of the State and he impacted life of State. people of Goa due to his vision.”

8 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 government’s achievement

PM-KISAN scheme Modi govt has so far transferred 5,215 cr to 26 million farmers

he central government has so far transferred scheme!,” the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in Rs 5,215 crore to over 26 million small and a tweet. T marginal farmers under the PM-Kisan scheme “Would be first scheme where such an amount announced in the last month’s interim budget. has been transferred to so many beneficiaries in such Ahead of the general election, the Centre a short span of time,” the PMO further said. announced the Rs 75,000-crore Pradhan Mantri Last week, the Union Agriculture Ministry had said Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme under that Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat have which Rs 6,000 per year would be disbursed in three taken a lead in taking benefit under the PM-Kisan installments to around 12 crore farmers who hold scheme. cultivable land up to 2 hectares. Till March 7, as many as 74.71 lakh farmers in Uttar In the budget, the NDA government allocated a Pradesh received the first installment, while 32.15 sum of Rs 20,000 crore, to transfer Rs 2,000 each to lakh farmers were benefitted in Andhra Pradesh. farmers in the first installment by March-end, for the Around 25.58 lakh farmers in Gujarat, 11.55 ongoing fiscal under the scheme. lakh farmers in Maharasthra, 14.41 lakh farmers in The scheme was formally launched at national level Telangana and 14.01 lakh farmers in Tamil Nadu got by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on February 24 the first payment. at Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh by transferring the first Among other states, 8.34 lakh farmers in Haryana installment to 1.01 crore farmers, totaling Rs 2,021 had received the first installment, followed by 8.09 crore. lakh farmers in Assam and 8.07 lakh farmers in “Under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi: Benefit of over Odisha, the ministry data had showed. Rs 5,215 crore transferred directly into the bank The Centre is transferring the money directly into accounts of more than 26 million small and marginal the bank accounts of eligible farmers, being identified farmers within 37 days of announcement of the by states and union territories (UTs).

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 9 government’s achievement India generated record number of jobs in January: EPFO data et employment generation in the formal sector lakh jobs were created in the 22-25 years age group, touched a 17-month high of 8.96 lakh in followed by 2.24 lakh in the 18-21 years age bracket. N January, according to the latest EPFO payroll The data of the exited members is based data. The EPFO has been releasing payroll data from on the claims submitted by the individuals and April 2018, covering the period starting September establishments and the exit data uploaded by 2017. The addition in January was 131 per cent higher employers, whereas the number of new subscribers as compared with 3.87 lakh EPFO subscribers added is based on the Universal Account Number (UAN) in the year-ago month. In September 2017, a net of generated in the system and those who have received 2,75,609 jobs were created. Around 76.48 lakh new non-zero subscription. The EPFO said the data is subscribers were added to social security schemes provisional as updation of employee records is a of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation continuous process and gets updated in subsequent (EPFO) from September 2017 to January 2019, the months. data showed. This indicates that these many jobs This is age-band wise data of new members were created in the formal sector over the past 17 registered under the EPFO where the first non-zero months. contribution received during particular month. For The net EPFO enrollment in January 2019 stood at each age-wise band, the estimates are net of the 8,96,516, which is the highest since September 2017. members newly enrolled, exited and rejoined during During January 2019, the highest number of 2.44 the month as per records of the EPFO, it added. Pays Off: Amid Asian Slowdown In Manufacturing Growth, India Races Ahead With Expansion At 14-Month High midst a regional trend in which major Asian The Indian manufacturing industry is primarily economies are witnessing either a slowdown composed of chemicals, machinery, metals and A or contraction in manufacturing activity, textiles. The galloping growth in the sector is attributed India has emerged as the notable exception, with to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ the country’s manufacturing sector picking up pace initiative, which seeks to transform manufacturing in to expand at the fastest rate in 14 months, reports the country. Nikkei Asian Review. “Prospects for [Indian] manufacturers remain The data comes from the latest Nikkei Purchasing bright over the near term,” stated, an economist at Managers’ Index (PMI) survey, which is conducted Capital Economics, who also expressed optimism on a monthly basis. Of the 15 data sets analysed over the Modi government’s recent policies aimed at in the PMI for February, nine countries saw a drop promoting small and medium-sized enterprises. compared to the previous month while only six rose, Particularly hard hit by the manufacturing with manufacturing seeing a specifically widespread slowdown in Asia are Japan and South Korea, which decline. are heavily reliant on exports to China; this main outlet India’s manufacturing PMI grew to 54.3 in February for their manufacturing sectors has been under strain from 53.9 in January, the peak since December 2017. during rising trade tensions with the US. .

10 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 government’s achievement 33rd GST Council allows builders to choose between 2 tax rates he GST Council on 20 Mar 2019 sought to address builders’ concerns related to their T inventory of under-construction housing units by allowing them to choose between the existing higher tax rate with input credit and the new flat rate that will be effective from April. Builders can opt for the existing 12% tax rate for homes that are under construction as on 31 March, but will have to pass on the benefits of input tax credit to customers, or choose the new GST rate of 5%, real estate sector, which has been grappling with effective 1 April. high unsold inventory. Similarly, in case of under-construction affordable Revenue secretary who briefed reporters after the homes, they can choose between the existing rate of GST Council meeting, said the window for choosing 8% and the new rate of 1%, the federal indirect tax between the existing and the new GST rates for body said. under-construction flats would be notified soon. Builders may now, on a case-to-case basis, The move offers relief to builders, who were decide what is the best option for them to exhaust facing the prospect of losing tax credits. “Builders the tax credits on their books, and keep the final tax get the best of both worlds,” said an industry expert, liability low. requesting anonymity. The option, however, comes The GST Council, however, made it clear that for with an anti-tax evasion rider: to take advantage of the new projects starting 1 April, the 5% and 1% GST tax rebates under the 12% and 8% rates, builders will rates would apply. have to procure 80% of all raw material and services The move could boost sentiment in the residential only from registered suppliers.

India’s Foreign Trade shows positive growth of 8.73%

ndia’s overall exports (Merchandise and I Services combined) in April-February 2018-19* are estimated to be USD 483.98 Billion, exhibiting a positive growth of 8.73 per cent over the same period last year. Overall imports in April- February2018-19* are estimated to be USD 577.31Billion, exhibiting a positive growth of 9.42per cent over the same period last year.

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 11 Vaichariki A Many-splendoured Personality

compartments like this. We have hesitate to say that if the Varna and to think of man as a whole. All caste system created differences our great thinkers like Lokmanya of high and low in the society it Tilak, Swami Vivekanand and would be overthrown.’ On the BALA SAHEB DEORAS Mahatma Gandhi propounded other hand he also said that this comprehensive nature of the people today are very much given Continue from last issue... human being in their philosophy. to thinking of money. He said both n the other hand Pandit And it is on these lines that an absence and an abundance Deendayalji took the Deendayalji’s concept of an of money create problems and O stand that those old things allround life of the individual is should be guarded against. which deserved to be retained based. Similarly Deendayalji accepted would be retained, and those new that the machine age has come to things which may be beneficial Clarity of Thinking stay, but he held that only that much would also be accepted. He ‘Deendayalji was quite clear in machinery should be allowed as meditated on these lines, and his opinion that any inequality would not bring problems in its through this meditation emerged wake. It would not do to keep the Integral Humanism, the political, examples of Russia and America economic and social philosophy before us while drawing up our that he found most acceptable plans. They are geographically and which he put before the very big countries with people. small populations and still The importance possess a lot of virgin of Deendayalji’s land. On the other hand comprehensive thinking we have a very big is now being realised. population and have For example, when been tilling our land our plans were drawn for thousands of pots. up in the beginning Consequently the people were told to western pattern cannot fell trees and bring the serve our purpose. land under cultivation. Pandit Deendayal But now it is being emphasised that our realised that felling manpower was our trees would actually have greatest asset and a detrimental effect on hence all our plans agriculture. should be labour intensive. Even in other respects It would not be proper to thinking in our country had instal big machines and hand become compartmentalised. over everything to the capitalist. Some said everything that a man This concept of a decentralised did has a same urge. Others economy was forcefully advocated said the urge is economic. But in society was undesirable and by Deendayalji. man cannot be divided into should be removed. He did not

12 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 Vaichariki

A special meeting in which Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya, Bhairon Singh Shekawat and Jagannath Rao Joshi are seen formulating subjects 1967 For and Of the People Those who carefully study the ideology propounded by Pandit Thus Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya was Deendayal Upadhyaya would a many splendoured personality. realise that its basic theme is But perhaps his essential quality ancient. Without doubt he did the work of highlighting what was as a leader has been described in enduring in what was old. At the that Shloka of the Geeta which Shri same time he did not hesitate to Nath Pai quoted in his tribute to point out what was transitory. It was through the process of transition Deendayalji: “He was one from whom and through the acceptance of the people did not turn away, and who new ideas that he placed before did not turn away from the people”. the people a clear political, social and economic ideology. The decentralised economy Thus Pandit Deendayal whom the people did not turn that our planners now want to Upadhyaya was a many away, and who did not turn away emphasise by giving importance splendoured personality. But from the people”. to cottage industries is the treasure perhaps his essential quality as house of thought that Deendayalji a leader has been described in (Based on speech by Late Shri Balasaheb Deoras, the then Sarsanghchalak of placed before the people. This that Shloka of the Geeta which Rashtriya Swayamseyak Sangh, on shows how comprehensive and Shri Nath Pai quoted in his tribute the occasion of Deendayal Upadhyaya Birthday Celebrations in Nagpur on deep his thinking was. to Deendayalji: “He was one from 25th September, 1977)

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 13 The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has condoled the sad demise of Shri Manohar Parrikar and extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the people Goa Chief of Goa on behalf of the Government and the entire Nation. The Cabinet observed two minutes silence in the memory of Shri Manohar Parrikar. Minister The Cabinet also approved observing one day of mourning by the Government of India and flying the National Flag at half-mast on 18th March, 2019 in all Manohar the States/UTs Capitals including Delhi and throughout State of Goa. The Union Cabinet further approved following condolence Resolution in the profound memory of Shri Parrikar Manohar Parrikar: “The Cabinet expresses profound sorrow at the sad demise of Shri Manohar Parrikar, Chief Minister of Goa in the evening of 17th March, 2019 passes away at Panaji, Goa. In his passing away, the country has lost a veteran and distinguished leader, affectionately called as the Chief Minister of commoners. Born on December 13, 1955 at Mapusa, Goa, Shri Parrikar was educated at Loyola School, Margao and later graduated in Metallurgical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai in 1978. Before entering politics, Shri Parrikar had joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) at a young age and became a Mukhya Shikshak (Chief Instructor) in the final years of his schooling itself. After graduating from IIT, he resumed RSS work in Mapusa and became a Sanghchalak at the age of 26. As a member of the , Shri oa Chief Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar passed Parrikar was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Goa away on March 17, 2019 at the age of 63 at his in 1994. He became the Chief Minister of Goa for the G residence in Panaji, Goa. Since last year, he was first time on 24th October, 2000 and continued till 27th battling for a pancreatic ailment. He served as Chief February, 2002. He was re-elected as Chief Minister on Minister of Goa for the last time from 14 March, 2017 3rd June, 2002 and served till 2nd February, 2005. He until his death. Previously, he was the Chief Minister became Chief Minister of Goa for the third time on 9th of Goa from 2000 to 2005 and from 2012 to 2014 and March, 2012 and continued till 8th November, 2014. from 2014 to 2017; he also served as the Minister of On 9th November, 2014, Shri Parrikar became Union Defence under Modi Government. He was a former Minister of Defence and continued till 13th March, member of the Rajya Sabha from Uttar Pradesh. The 2017, he was again sworn in as Chief Minister of Goa four-time Chief Minister represented Panaji Assembly on 14th March, 2017. seat in the state for over two decades. His wife Smt. Shri Parrikar will be remembered for his simplicity Medha passed away in 2001. They have two sons. and his abilities as an exceptional administrator. His The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and several contribution to the building of modern Goa and to leaders across the political parties expressed their the modernization of India’s Armed Forces as well as condolence on the demise of Shri Parrikar. improvement to the lives of Ex.-Servicemen will never

14 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 SHRADHANJALI be forgotten. along with millions of BJP Karyakartas and importantly Shri Parrikar was awarded the ‘Distinguished the people of Goa, who were his family, express my Alumnus Award’ by IIT Mumbai in 2001, Honorary deepest condolences. May God give the bereaved Doctorate by National Institute of Technology, Goa in family strength to withstand this tragic loss. Om 2018 and the Dr. S.P. Mukherjee Award in 2018, among Shanti..Shanti Shanti..” others. He is survived by his two sons. Manohar Parrikar was a fighter on all Parrikar was the builder of modern fronts: L.K. Advani Goa, an unparalleled leader and a true “I am extremely sad to learn about the demise of Shri patriot: Narendra Modi Manohar Parrikar. He had been bravely fighting his The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi condoled illness for some time. I had the opportunity to meet the passing away of the Chief Minister of Goa, Shri him at Goa in the month of January this year. Despite Manohar Parrikar. his illness, he was quite bold to sit up, attend to office The Prime Minister said, “Shri Manohar Parrikar work and also interact with everyone. Manohar Parrikar was an unparalleled leader. A true patriot and exceptional administrator, he was admired by all. His impeccable service to the nation will be remembered by generations. Deeply saddened by his demise, Condolences to his family and supporters”. Om Shanti. He said Shri Manohar Parrikar was the builder of modern Goa. Thanks to his affable personality and accessible nature, he remained the preferred leader of the state for years. His pro-people policies ensured Goa scales remarkable heights of progress. The PM further said, “India will be eternally grateful to Shri Manohar Parrikar for his tenure as our Defence Minister. When he was Defence Minister, India witnessed a series of decisions that enhanced India’s security capacities, boosted indigenous defence production and bettered the lives of ex-servicemen”. was a fighter on all fronts and was also instrumental in forming the first BJP Government in Goa.” Shri Parrikar’s demise is very painful, A man of few words, he believed in accomplishing says Amit Shah his tasks with utmost dedication. I pay my condolences BJP National President Shri Amit Shah expressed his to all the members of his family. May his soul rest in condolence on the leader demise in a series of tweets. peace. He said “Manohar Parrikarji’s demise is extremely painful. In him, the nation has lost a true patriot who He was known for his honesty, integrity selflessly dedicated his entire life to the country and and simplicity: Rajnath Singh ideology. Parrikar ji’s commitment towards his people Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh expressed his and duties was exemplary.” condolence over the sad demise of Goa Chief Minister “Parrikar ji has shown the entire nation how a Manohar Parrikar. “Deeply saddened and pained by BJP Karyakarta, even during his toughest time, is the demise of my dear friend & Chief Minister of Goa, committed to the philosophy of Nation First, Party Next Shri Manohar Parrikar. He was known for his honesty, and Self Last. He will always be remembered for his integrity and simplicity”, Shri Singh tweeted. He served contributions as India’s Defence Minister and as CM the nation and the state of Goa with great diligence. of Goa.” My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family, the “Entire BJP stands firmly with Parrikar ji’s family. I Home Minister added in the twitter message.

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 15 SHRADHANJALI

He always led by example in his public life & loved by masses: Arun Jaitley President of India Ramnath Kovind said, Union Finance Minister Shri Arun Jaitley said, “Extremely sorry to hear of the passing of Shri “Saddened to know about the demise of senior BJP Manohar Parrikar, Chief Minister of Goa, after leader Shri Manohar Parrikar ji, Chief Minister of Goa. an illness borne with fortitude and dignity. An He always led by example in his public life and was epitome of integrity and dedication in public life, loved by masses. He will be missed by every one of his service to the people of Goa and of India will us. May God render peace to the departed soul, Om not be forgotten “. Shanti... ॐ शान्鄿” BJP has faced a huge loss with the demise The Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah of Parrikar Ji: Nitin Gadkari Naidu has condoled the passing away of the Union Transport Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari expressed Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Manohar Parrikar. In a his condolences on demise of Goa Chief Minister Shri message, the Vice President said that Shri Parrikar Manohar Parrikar. “BJP has faced a huge loss with the was one of the most lovable and honest senior demise of Manohar Parrikar Ji... Apart from being a politicians of our country. He was a dynamic and party member, he was a really close friend of mine. dedicated individual who led life full of values and He isn’t with me today & I’m personally very pained principles. In his passing, the nation in general and by this. Goa in particular lost its proud son. My heartfelt Defence Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman said condolences to members of his bereaved family Shri Manohar Parrikar is no more. A sincere, honest and I pray for his soul rest in peace.” & sensitive political activist was simple and down to earth, I learnt a lot from Shri Parrikar. As Raksha Mantri his contribution to making the armed forces a Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath modernised, lean & mean fighting machine will remain expressing his grief on the demise of Shri Parrikar unparalleled. said, “It is really saddening news. As chief minister of Human Resources Minister Shri Prakash Javadekar Goa and Defence minister of India, the commendable said he was an epitome of idealism in public life. “He service has given to the country will always be had a vision for Goa and the country and worked remembered. He was very humble and a true patriot.” on mission mode to accomplish it in whichever responsibility he was given. We have lost an ideal Last Journey leader, with whom I had worked since he entered the The last rites of Shri Manohar Parrikar ji were BJP. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends performed with full state honours on 18 March, 2019 and his supporters. Om Shanti,” he tweeted. evening. In the morning of 18 March Shri Parrikar’s Railway Minister Shri Piyush Goyal said Shri Manohar mortal was kept at the BJP head office in Panjim for Parrikar’s exemplary leadership will continue to inspire last Darshan. and serve as a benchmark. Thousands of people thronged the streets of Goa Environment Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan said that state capital to catch a final glimpse of Chief Minister with Manohar Parrikar’s death, he lost a close friend Shri Manohar Parrikar, as his mortal remains was and it was a big loss to the nation and the party. brought to the BJP office for party workers to pay Union Textile Minister Smt. Smriti Irani said, “A their last respect. His remains were also taken to Kala leader, a mentor, a friend- Parrikar Sir meant all that Academy, around three km from the BJP office, later & more to my family. But then every Goan can say the on the day to allow the public pay their tribute to him. same for that was the persona of Manohar Parrikar. The final rites of the late CM Shri Manohar Parrikar He taught me dignity in the face of adversity, loyalty in were performed at the Miramar beach, next to the tough times & perseverance so that determined goals memorial of Goa’s first Chief Minister Dayanand are met”. Bandodkar.

16 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 ‘Bilateral relation would continue to grow’ PM Modi & Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina jointly unveil development projects in Bangladesh, via video conference

rime Minister Narendra Modi, and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on March 11 @narendramodi P jointly unveiled e-plaques for development प्रधानमं配셀 शेख हसीना जी के साथ यह मेरी छठी video projects in Bangladesh, through video conference. conference है। Both leaders unveiled e-plaques for supply of इतनी सरलता से, और इतनी बार, किन्Ă दो देशⴂ के नेतृत㔵 buses and trucks, inauguration of 36 community के बीच मᴂ संपर㔕 होना, अपने आप मᴂ दर्�ता है कि दोनⴂ देशⴂ के clinics, 11 water treatment plants, and extension of बीच संबंध कितने गहरे और मजबूत हℂ। National Knowledge Network to Bangladesh. भारत और बांग्लदेश के बीच connectivity मजबूत करने Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister noted की बात जब भी होती है, तो उसका सबसे बड़ प्रेरणा रत मℂ that this is his sixth video conference with Bangladesh प्रधानमं配셀 शेख हसीना जी के vision को मानता हूँ। Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He said that PM Sheikh Hasina’s vision is the biggest inspiration for stronger scholars and research institutes in Bangladesh, to connectivity between India and Bangladesh. He India and the world. He said the buses and trucks said today’s unveilings will boost not just transport would assist the efforts towards affordable public connectivity, but also knowledge connectivity. He transportation; water treatment plants will help supply said the National Knowledge Network will connect clean water; and community clinics will benefit about 2 lakh people, in Bangladesh. He said these projects Highlights show that India-Bangladesh relations are playing a • Both PM Shri Modi and PM Hasina unveiled key role in improving the quality of life of people. e-plaques for the supply of buses and trucks, Prime Minister Modi was appreciative of, • Inaugurated 36 community clinics, and reiterated India’s support for the ambitious • 11 water treatment plants, and development targets set by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, for Bangladesh. He expressed confidence • extension of National Knowledge Network to that bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh Bangladesh. would continue to grow even further.

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 17 PM's Blog Remembering Dr. Lohia

efforts such as PM Kisan Samman Congress was. In 1962 he said, Nidhi, Krishi Sinchai Yojana, “During the Congress regime e-Nam, Soil Health Cards and neither agriculture and industry more. nor the army has improved.” Narendra Modi Nothing pained Dr. Lohia more These words can accurately than the caste hierarchy and describe even subsequent inequality between women and Congress regimes, where oday (March 23, 2019) men. Our Mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, farmers were harassed, industry is a day to honour Sabka Vikas’ as well as our track was discouraged (except if they T revolutionaries. record in the last five years show belonged to friends and relatives We pay tributes to great sons that we have made a long-lasting of Congress leaders) and national of Mother India - Bhagat Singh, contribution in fulfilling the vision security was ignored. Sukhdev and Rajguru for their of Dr. Lohia. He would surely Anti-Congressism was Dr. ultimate sacrifice. have been very proud of the NDA Lohia’s heart and soul. His We bow to a prolific thinker, Government’s work. efforts ensured a shock to the exceptional intellectual, Whenever Dr. Lohia spoke, then all-powerful Congress in revolutionary and devout patriot, inside or outside Parliament, the 1967 elections. That time, Atal Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia on his Congress trembled with fear. Ji remarked- “Due to Dr. Lohia’s Jayanti. Dr. Lohia knew how disastrous efforts, one could travel on board Dr. Lohia combined a the Howrah-Amritsar Mail sharp mind and a penchant without having to pass a for mass politics. single Congress state!” When top leaders were Unfortunately, today Dr. arrested during the Quit Lohia would be horrified at India movement, a young the political developments Dr. Lohia remained unfazed, taking place. went underground and even Those parties that claim started an underground inspiration from Dr. Lohia radio station to further the have completely abandoned movement. his principles. They are In the history of Goa’s leaving no opportunity to liberation, the name of Dr. insult him. Lohia is etched in golden The veteran socialist letters. leader from Odisha, Shri Wherever the Surendranath Dwivedy marginalised needed a remarked, “He (Dr. Lohia) voice, Dr. Lohia was there. was imprisoned many times Dr. Lohia’s thoughts more during Congress inspire us. He wrote about regime than under the modernising agriculture British rule.” and empowering farmers, Yet, today those parties which the NDA Government that falsely claim to be is effectively doing through Dr. Lohia’s followers are

18 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 PM's Blog desperate to form an opportunistic Maha Milawat or adulteration Dr. Lohia stated that one who works with alliances with the same Congress. ‘Samta’, ‘Samanata’ and ‘Samatva Bhaav’ is It is both ironical and reprehensible. Dr. Lohia always believed that a Yogi. Sadly, the parties that claim to be his dynastic politics was inimical to followers forgot this principle. They believe in democracy. He would have been ‘Satta’, ‘Swarth’ and ‘Shoshan.’ These parties flabbergasted to see his ‘followers’ are experts at grabbing power, looting as much think about their own families first as possible and exploiting others. Poor people, instead of the nation. Tribals, Dalits, OBCs and women are not safe in Dr. Lohia stated that one who works with ‘Samta’, ‘Samanata’ their rule because these parties give a free run and ‘Samatva Bhaav’ is a Yogi. to criminals and anti-social elements. Sadly, the parties that claim to be his followers forgot this principle. for complete equality between thoughts? They believe in ‘Satta’, ‘Swarth’ men and women. But, neck deep Today, a moot question facing and ‘Shoshan.’ These parties in vote bank politics, it was parties 130 crore Indians is: are experts at grabbing power, that dishonestly claim to be Dr. How can those who betrayed looting as much as possible and Lohia’s followers that opposed Dr. Lohia be expected to serve the exploiting others. Poor people, the NDA Government’s move to nation? Tribals, Dalits, OBCs and women abolish the inhuman practice of Today they are betraying the are not safe in their rule because Triple Talaq. principles of Dr. Lohia, tomorrow these parties give a free run to Is the commitment to vote they will also betray the people of criminals and anti-social elements. bank politics bigger than the India. In his works, Dr. Lohia called commitment to Dr. Lohia’s (The writer is the Prime Minister, GoI) 11 more States get DD Channels n a decision bound to further the outreach and accessibility of Doordarshan, Prasar Bharati I has brought 11 more State DD Channels, including five channels of North-Eastern States, on the Satellite footprint of India through DD Free Dish. It is for the first time that the States of Chhattisgarh, Goa, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Uttarakhand have got their own DD Channel on a Satellite Network through DD Free Dish. These State channels represent the regional aspirations of the local population. Providing a satellite network for these channels through DD Free Dish will not only increase visibility of these channels in the Regions, but also give them an All-India presence. The increased accessibility to regional broadcast will help promote regional culture and give opportunities to local talent as well.

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 19 Apna Time Aa Gaya Hai and it is time to turn up with high Josh to a voting center near you: Modi head of the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections, Prime Hai and that it is time to turn up with high Josh to a Minister Shri Narendra Modi has reached out voting center near you." A to several celebrities across domains urging In one of the posts, he tagged 'Uri: The Surgical them to encourage the voters of India to come out and Strike' actor Vicky Kaushal along with Varun Dhawan execute their rights. In a series of Tweets, he addressed and Ranveer Singh, asking to join the initiative and several A-listers from the sports and entertainment influence the young voters. Actor Vicky Kaushal industry asking them to create voter awareness. responds to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's 'Vote Drawing reference to Vicky's iconic 'How's the Josh' For India' Election 2019 Clarion Call. dialogue and Ranveer's 'Apna Time Aayega', the Prime Sharing the same stance with PM Shri Modi, the Minister Tweeted, "My young friends @RanveerOfficial, actor pointed out how 'every vote is a building block @Varun_dvn & @vickykaushal09, Many youngsters for democracy'. admire you. It is time to tell them: Apna Time Aa Gaya In a tweet tagging Ranveer Singh PM Shri Modi

20 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 PM’s 'Vote For India' appeal asked to create voter awareness. Ranveer Singh Minister's tweet. took to his twitter handle and responded to the Prime Akshay Kumar wrote, “ Well said @narendramodi Minister. He wrote: "We must all be responsible young ji. The true hallmark of a democracy lies in people’s citizens of our great democracy and exercise our right participation in the electoral process. Voting has to to vote. Desh ke naujawaan..Vote karneka waqt aa be a superhit prem katha between our nation and its gaya hai"[sic] voters :)” Taking a reference from Bhumi Pednekar's film Karan Johar said, “Honourable Prime Minister @ 'Dum Laga Ke Haisha' and 'Toilet: Ek Prem Katha', narendramodi we as a fraternity are dedicated to the the Prime Minister tagged Bhumi Pednekar and said: cause of creating high voter awareness and will make "Thoda Dum Lagaiye aur Voting ko Ek Superhit Katha sure every endeavour is made to communicate the banaiye." power of voting for a solid and Democratic INDIA! Jai Bhumi Pednekar immediately responded to PM Shri Hind!” Modi's tweet and wrote: "To all the citizens of this great Responding to PM’s tweet “When @mangeshkarlata democracy...each one of us have the right to vote, a Didi, @sachin_rt and @arrahman say something, the power that comes with great responsibility. And each nation takes note!” AR Rahman said We will definitely one of us must become a part of shaping the future of do it. our country. Go vote everyone!" Apart from them other celebrities The PM also asked actor Mohanlal also responded positively for 'Vote to create awareness among the EMPHATIC For India' appeal and assured their people regarding the importance of participation in the movement. voting. Shri Modi took to his twitter RESPONSE Tagging almost 100 celebrated and requested actor Mohanlal to personalities from the fields of create voter awareness and also urge TO PM MODI’S politics, entertainment, news media, the people to vote in large numbers. ‘VOTE FOR sports and social work on Twitter Shri The PM also recollected the actor's Narendra Modi urged them to leverage contribution and achievements. INDIA’ APPEAL their popularity to “ensure high voter In reply to the Prime Minister, actor awareness and participation in the Mohanlal said that it is indeed his FOR 2019 coming elections”. privilege to request his fellow citizens ELECTIONS The PM tagged top politicians to exercise the right to take part from various other parties, including in a democracy, which would help Rahul Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee, its better functions. The actor took to his twitter and Sharad Pawar, N Chandrababu Naidu, Neiphiu Rio, wrote, "Certainly, Sir. It will be my privilege to request and Aditya Thackeray, among others. all the fellow citizens to exercise their right for a vibrant The sports persons include top cricketers Sachin democracy. Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, wrestlers Bajrang PM Shri Modi tagged Varun Dhawan in one of the Punia, Geeta Phogat, Babita Phogat and shuttler tweets and the actor has a perfect reply to it. Varun wrote: Saina Nehwal, PV Sindhu and Kidambi Srikanth. "Yes your totally correct honorable prime minister. Every Shri Modi also asked journalists including Asian vote has equal power. Every vote counts. This election News International’s Smita Prakash, Times Now’s day, make your vote count. #mumbaikarvotekar Navika Kumar and India Today’s Rahul Kanwal, #indiavotekar #FestivalOfDemocracy" requesting them to “ensure greater participation in The Prime Minister also urged Bollywood celebs democratic processes” by the people. such as Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman He also urged actors from the entertainment Khan, AR Rahman, Karan Johar and others to help industries in the South, social activists, religious increase voter participation in the next Lok Sabha leaders and influential businessmen to “to help elections. Bollywood stars including Akshay Kumar, increase voter awareness and tap the power of society Karan Johar and others promptly replied to the Prime for democracy”.

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 21 Article Agenda 2019 – The Leadership Issue

Arun Jaitley

he schedule for the Lok Sabha elections has been T announced. The next ten weeks will witness a clash of ideas and ideologies, competitiveness amongst candidates and a battle for leadership. There are several issues which occupy the agenda space in an election. Today, I deal with one of the principal issues which nationalist vision, a politician of leadership, a policy paralysis and occupies a foremost relevance in utmost integrity. He ensured that integrity a big casualty. The people 2019 General Elections – the issue those who work with or under him rewarded him with a comfortable of leadership. also adopt the ethics which is mandate. expected from people in public The Incumbent Prime offices. He withstood a false and How does a nation assess Minister vicious campaign against him. The him after five years? India has witnessed several facts in the campaign proved false He has proved to the world that India General Elections where incumbent in every legal battle. He did not allow can be administered with integrity Prime Minister has faced an anti- himself to be bogged down by the and honesty. India is capable of incumbency. Anti-incumbency is hostile campaign. He laid down his tough decisions in order to ensure a phenomenon where unhappy own developmental agenda for the growth to enable India to secure people vote an incumbent out. The State and won three successive Lok itself. India occupies the high Opposition succeeds by default. Sabha elections and three Assembly table in the world. It has become However, if the comfort level and the Elections. He communicated the fastest growing economy. He confidence with incumbent is high, directly with the people. He stands ensured an economic model where his performance, leadership, ethics out as a communicator. He created the advantage of the additionality and integrity has been tested, the and nurtured a new leadership in of resources emerging from the incumbent succeeds. Gujarat. The Gujarati population all fast growing economy is spent The country assessed Shri over the world identifies with him. on infrastructure or transferred to Narendra Modi as the Chief Minister He inspired them. the poor, particularly in the rural of Gujarat for a period of fourteen He entered the 2014 electoral areas. He did not give slogans but years. He emerged a strong leader race when the country saw he transferred actual resources with development orientations, a indecisiveness, a collapse of to bring down poverty levels and

22 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 Article added to the ease of living. the TRS and the YSRCP are not with Leaders with flexible ideologies Even his critics are bewildered by the gathbandhan. think that they are acceptable his evolution of his national security The leadership issue is an absolute to all. The Opposition alliance is doctrine. He has evolved India from puzzle. The Congress President unclear – it is absolutely fragile. a nation which only defended itself Shri Rahul Gandhi is a inadequate None of the political parties is domestically against terror through leader. He is tried, tested and capable of any significant number intelligence and security network failed. His lack of understanding of of seats. The alliance will not have and isolated Pakistan at the global issues is frightening. He aspires to a stable nucleus. It has a set of level to a nation which is capable of be the leader of this chaotic pack. highly ambitious, self-centered destroying terror at the points of its’ Mamata Didi is positioning herself and maverick leaders. Barring the origin. The success of the surgical as the ‘sutradhar’ of this alliance. Congress and the Left, most of strikes of 2016 and the air strikes of She won’t concede a single seat them have done political business 2019 points to this direction. either to the Congress or the Left in with the BJP in the past. Their Within the NDA there are no West Bengal but will want them to ideologies and commitment to their leadership issues. There is absolute be her pillion riders if she drives the constituents are widely different. clarity. Shri Narendra Modi leads the vehicle. Her instinctive comments NDA and will be the Prime The Contest Minister in the event of the The contest is between NDA victory. His leadership The JeM terrorist attack at Pulwama a leader in whose hand is nationally accepted, his the country is developing has brought back into focus the key ratings are very high. His and secure. He is trusted. issue of national security. India is a track record speaks for itself. Against him it is no one land of patriotic people. We have a projected leader. There are Let us look at the history of valour and sacrifice. India multiple leaders, each trying other side struggled for Independence but with to outwit the other. They can What was promised to their heads held high. We still find it only promise a temporary be ‘Mahagathbandhan’ difficult to digest our humiliation of Government if we go by the is turning out to be a 1962. We remember the 1965 and 1971 past precedents. One can ‘gathbandhan’ of several Wars and the 1999 Kargil war with a be certain of chaos. The conflicting gathbandhans. It sense of honour and satisfaction. choice is clear – it is either is a self-destructive ‘coalition Modi or chaos. of rivals’. The BSP and the SP will contest against the Congress on policy issues are retrograde. Prime Minister Modi’s but eventually join hands. So will the Behan Mayawati, the leader of Evolving National Security Trinamool and the Congress -Left the BSP, was wiped out in the last Doctrine alliance in West Bengal. However, Lok Sabha elections. She changed The JeM terrorist attack at Pulwama in Kerala the Congress and the Left her strategy. She wants a strong has brought back into focus the key will contest against each other. The BSP and a weak Congress. She issue of national security. India is a PDP and the National Conference holds her cards close to her chest. land of patriotic people. We have a tried to form the Government She will open them only after the history of valour and sacrifice. India together with the support of the results are declared. She has had struggled for Independence but with Congress in Jammu and Kashmir. a strategic ‘alliance of compulsion’ their heads held high. We still find Today they are rivals in an election with the Samajwadi Party in Uttar it difficult to digest our humiliation and on the dangerous agenda Pradesh but the scars of her of 1962. We remember the 1965 of either ‘autonomy’ or ‘pre-1953 historical conflict with its allies have and 1971 Wars and the 1999 Kargil status’ but could join hands with the not washed away. She wants a war with a sense of honour and gathbandhan. The Biju Janata Dal, strong BSP and a weak Congress. satisfaction. Indians believe that the

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 23 Article country must be secured. The entire Government a joint session of both tukde’ at New Delhi’s JNU, the nation in one voice has condemned Houses of Parliament to approve Congress President Rahul Gandhi terrorism which cost us the life of the law. The Congress promised stood shoulder to shoulder with two of our former Prime Ministers, to repeal the law. The distinction them to defend their right of free besides our security personnel and between an anti-terrorism and an speech to champion the cause citizens. anti-minority law is significant. The of breaking India into pieces. He Congress and its allies tried to deviated from the Congress legacy Dangers of linking the obliterate that difference. Since then of not associating with these battle against terrorism and the Congress started going soft on extremists. Once the identification insurgency with vote banks terror. It started an appeasement of of Congressmen with the Maoists Conventionally India condemned terror. and the separatists was signalled any form of terrorism and insurgency When the Batla House encounter by Rahul Gandhi, it was natural for in one voice. When a misguided took place and the terrorists were Congressmen and their friends to section of Muslim community killed, the Congress leaders dubbed support the cause of ‘urban Maoists’ globally took to terrorism in order it as a fake encounter. The terrorists who were allegedly conspiring to to voice their issues, Indian they claimed were innocent. When assassinate India’s Prime Minister. Muslims predominantly It is, therefore, not surprising refused to be a part of that that the new Government philosophy. Fortunately The State of Jammu and Kashmir in Chhattisgarh, the hub of for us that trend continues was a foremost victim of terror. The Left wing extremism, has till date. Unfortunately, a people of Jammu and Kashmir are now taken several decisions, few misguided modules in the worst sufferers. Pakistan never including appointment of India did emerge. They are reconciled to Jammu and Kashmir committees to effectively dangerous but our security being an integral part of India. examine the ‘misuse’ of forces overcame most of It waged wars but lost them. It police powers against the them. resorted to encouraging cross border Maoists. The battle against TADA was legislated insurgency and supporting domestic terror has been weakened on when late Shri Rajiv Gandhi terrorists. The Congress had no account of Congress party was in power. It was used structured plan during ten years of and its mahagathbandhan and abused but it continued UPA on how to deal with the problem. friends diluting the fight as a law. After the 1993 against terror and insurgency Mumbai bomb blast it was for the sake of votes. widely used against the terrorists, the guilty of the 1993 Mumbai a communal campaign started bomb blast, 26/11 attack on Kashmir and terror against this. TADA was dubbed as India’s commercial capital and the The State of Jammu and Kashmir anti-minority. A campaign for its Parliament attack case were to be was a foremost victim of terror. The revocation started. The Narasimha executed, many Congressmen people of Jammu and Kashmir Rao led Congress Government started appealing for amnesty. The are the worst sufferers. Pakistan repealed TADA. India which was ‘disruptionists’ who prefer to call never reconciled to Jammu and most adversely impacted by terror themselves ‘Left liberals’, fought a Kashmir being an integral part of was without an anti-terror law which legal battle to save the terrorists. India. It waged wars but lost them. would act as a strong deterrent and The low point in Congress It resorted to encouraging cross contained both procedural and party’s attitude towards separatism border insurgency and supporting substitutional provisions to deal and terror was reached when domestic terrorists. The Congress with crime relating to terror. The a combination of separatists, had no structured plan during ten Government led by Shri Atal Bihari jehadis and Maoists ganged up to years of UPA on how to deal with Vajpayee legislated POTA. It took the raise slogans on ‘Desh ke tukde the problem.

24 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 Article

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Minister Modi had evolved India’s repeatedly rubbishes the surgical inherited this as a legacy issue. internal security doctrine. Do strikes. It contends that they have He experimented the conventional we fight the terrorists merely either taken place in the past also method of trying to soften the on the strength of intelligence or alternatively they never took relationship with Pakistan in a hope information, preventing attacks and place under Prime Minister Modi. that wiser sense would prevail, but diplomatically isolating Pakistan? On the air strikes, their conduct is Pakistan responded with Pathankot, In such cases, will we be able to even more dubious. While giving Uri and Pulwama. He encouraged ensure a hundred percent success. lip sympathy to the Indian Air the mainstream political parties The odds are loaded against us on Force for the first two days, they of the Valley to be a part of the this ground. Even if the terrorists started a multi-pronged attack. national coalition in Kashmir but succeed only once a year, they They questioned the success of the unfortunately the double talk of make their point. Our intelligence strikes. They started demanding support from Delhi and the pressure and security has to succeed proof that terrorists had died at from the Jamat-e-Islami were to the hundred percent. That is a big Balakot. They even contended detriment of anti-separatists policy. challenge. Alternatively, the Surgical that the strike had taken place not and Air strikes evolved a policy against terror but to ensure BJP’s Pulwama and Balakot that we must attack terror at the victory in the forthcoming elections. The terrorist strike of Pulwama point of its origin. In both cases we This was a self-goal by the Congress which cost India the life of 41 CRPF succeeded. Pakistan realised that in domestic politics. This was also jawans shook the conscience of the there was a severe cost involved playing into the hands of Pakistan whole country. Our security forces if the State continued to patronise where statements of Congress have already liquidated some of terror. The world welcomed our leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, the major terrorists involved in the pro-active approach. Pakistan were played out on television Pulwama attack. Post the Uri attack, was diplomatically isolated. Its channels in Pakistan. Pakistan our forces and the Government traditional friends were not willing to Government cited these statements have intelligence information with stand up and defend it. to bolster their own falsehood. regard to the existence of terrorists This raises the final question. training camps along the Line of Political Battle When India battles ultra-Left and Control. The Army in September, The BJP led Government, both at the Jehadi terrorists, when it is faced 2016 conducted the surgical strikes Centre and in Chhattisgarh, had a with serious threat of cross border with utmost precision. There was consistently strong position against terrorism, how does India respond? no casualty on the Indian side and the Left wing extremism. From JNU This is a choice before the electorate those camps were destroyed. We to Chhattisgarh, the Congress has in the 2019 general elections. Can had crossed the LoC for the first struck a deal with them. There are an over-ground ally of Left wing time since 1971 war. increasing instances of Left wing extremism be put in power at Our security forces and the extremists actively encouraging the New Delhi? Can those who have Government again had information Kashmiri Jehadis in the Kashmir weakened the battle against terror through intelligence agencies with valley. The Congress does not for the cause of vote bank politics regard to a huge terrorist training oppose the idea of a pro-active be trusted? Should not those who camp of the JeM at Balakot. On approach in destroying terror at its have played into the Pakistani the 26th February, 2019, the Air point of origin. It is disturbed with hands be taught a severe lesson in Force conducted air strikes and regard to the political fallout of this these elections? Unhesitatingly the destroyed the camp causing severe pro-active approach on the image of answer to the above question is a losses of the terrorist infrastructure Prime Minister Modi. The Congress big ‘yes’. This country is safe and comprising of men, material and is one with the Government on secure under the NDA Government premises. condemning Pulwama but is led by Prime Minister Modi. By these two actions, Prime disturbed about Balakot. Thus it (The writer is Minister of Finance, GoI)

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 25 Article Manohar Parrikar: The Chief Minister next door ‘Manohar believed in pro-active but clean politics. He was among the most selfless politicians I have known, always ready to do what the party asked him. He truly epitomised our party’s spirit of Nation First, Party Second, Self last.’

voice was extremely feeble and he cannot drain your commitment to had a feeder tube inserted in one of the country. his nostrils. Yet, his discomfort was Manohar was my contemporary not visible. What was visible was in public life. My association Nitin Gadkari the indomitable “josh” to serve the with him dates back to about people of Goa till his last breath, 35 years ago. Both of us were as he put it. Three days later, on inspired by the ideology of the y last meeting with my January 30, Manohar presented RSS, its discipline and the sense friend Manohar Parrikar the budget in the Goa Assembly of commitment it invoked in us M was on January 27. in the same condition, addressing towards nation-building. He stunned everyone when he the House for nearly two hours. A brilliant student who did travelled from the makeshift On February 4, he tweeted a brave BTech from IIT Bombay, he entered medical facility at his residence to message to the world: “Human Goan politics at the instance of the join me for the inauguration of the mind can overcome any disease.” RSS to stall the growing influence third bridge on the Mandovi river As I think of all the moments I of the regional parties in the state. in Goa. Manohar Parrikar told me have spent with Manohar Parrikar, He made his debut in the state that he could not miss the historic I can only say that apart from his assembly in 1994 from the Panaji event, and thanked me for helping impeccable integrity, dedication constituency on the BJP ticket Goa achieve speedy and all-round and hard work, he has also and went on to leave an indelible development. emerged as an iconic inspiration mark, not only on state politics but As I sat next to him, I couldn’t for cancer patients. He has shown also at the Centre as the country’s but feel emotionally choked. His the world that a terminal illness defence minister. Parrikar’s tenure as defence minister was historic in many Parrikar’s tenure as defence minister was ways. The One Rank One Pension historic in many ways. The One Rank One scheme was implemented, the Pension scheme was implemented, the Rafale Rafale deal was finalised and deal was finalised and India carried out India carried out successful successful surgical strikes in PoK in response surgical strikes in PoK in response to the Uri attack. However, in his personal life, to the Uri attack. However, in his personal life, Manohar remained Manohar remained an epitome of simplicity an epitome of simplicity and frugal and frugal living. Till a few years ago, he living. Till a few years ago, he would sometimes drive a scooter to office even would sometimes drive a scooter after becoming CM. to office even after becoming CM. As the defence minister, he often

26 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 Article travelled in the economy class of low cost airlines. His needs were Manohar believed in pro-active but clean minimal. His focus was always on the larger picture. politics. He was among the most selfless Manohar believed in pro-active politicians I have known, always ready but clean politics. He was among to do what the party asked him. He truly the most selfless politicians I have epitomised our party’s spirit of Nation First, known, always ready to do what Party Second, Self last. In October 2000, the party asked him. He truly Manohar staged an internal coup against a epitomised our party’s spirit of Nation First, Party Second, Self coalition government led by the Congress in last. In October 2000, Manohar Goa without indulging in any kind of horse staged an internal coup against trading. a coalition government led by the Congress in Goa without indulging in any kind of horse trading. Manohar quit as defence However, since February Having been the CM of Goa minister and returned to Goa as CM 2018, Manohar had been four times, Parrikar has made a in March 2017, when we managed fighting an arduous battle with pivotal contribution in expediting to woo parties such as the Goa cancer. Pancreatic cancer has infrastructure projects and Forward Party and MGP to support a low survival rate but looking minimising corruption. When I him to form the government. Since at Manohar’s zest and energy was the BJP president, I would I was the overseeing the elections through this battle, we were constantly look up to him for new for my party, I have interesting hopeful that he will pull off the ideas and initiatives to spruce up memories of our working together biggest coup of his life. our good governance agenda. to outsmart the Congress. But God had other plans. As I recall my association with Manohar, let me make another important point — in my knowledge never before has a leader from a state as small as Goa enjoyed a pan India acceptance and popularity. The reason is simple: Manohar was your next door CM, the kind of relative or uncle you could identify with or relate to, whether you met him at a government office or the vegetable market. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has aptly described Manohar as the builder of modern Goa. Manohar’s death is a loss for every Goan and every Indian. For me, the loss is deeply personal.

(The writer is the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, GoI)

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 27 Vijay Sankalp Rally in Agra, Uttar Pradesh

‘Election should be fought for nation’s security and development; not to fulfill someone’s wish to become PM’

he Bharatiya Janata Party National President cash transfers to farmers and medical insurance for Shri Amit Shah kicked off the election the poor as the government’s commitment to all- T campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls with round development. the ‘Vijay Sankalp’ rally in Agra on 24, March,2019. ‘The major issue in this election will be UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was in Saharanpur BJP’s development versus the corruption of the for the campaign on the same day. ‘Vijay Sankalp’ mahagathbandhan,” he said rallies will be held in majority of the 80 Lok Sabha Shri Shah praised PM Modi for the surgical strikes constituencies of Uttar Pradesh with focus majorly on across the LoC and in Balakot after the terror attacks western UP where polls will be held in the first phase. in Uri and Pulwama. He criticised Congress president CM Shri Yogi, several union ministers and BJP leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sam Pitroda for their comments would similarly address public meetings across the on Balakot air strike and accused the opposition of state in favor of party candidates. indulging in vote bank politics by abusing the defence Addressing the Vijay Sankalp Rally in Agra, Uttar forces of the country. Pradesh BJP National President Shri Amit Shah “Sam Pritoda raised questions about Balakot air taunted the opposition saying it has no leader to strike. I ask if they are related to Pakistanis,” he said. become Prime Minister even if it were to win the “There used to be two countries, US and Israel general elections. which used to be known for avenging its soldiers. Shri Shah said, ‘No one is willing to fight the Now India has become the third country to do so elections. Maywati wants Shri Narendra Modi under PM Shri Modi. Only Shri Modi can ensure the defeated as Prime Minister but she is not willing to country’s security,” Shri Amit Shah said to chants of fight elections. Neither is Sharad Pawar, Mamata Modi, Modi. Banerjee or Stalin” . “Election should be fought for the nation’s security He said the Modi government has worked for and development and should not be contested to the development of the entire nation and not for any fulfill someone’s wish to become Prime Minister,” Shri particular community and cited the scheme of direct Shah said.

28 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 Opposition raises questions on Balakot Air Strike 130 crore Indians will not forgive or forget the Opposition for their antics: Modi rime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 22 March, 2019 stepped up attack on the Congress after party Rahul Gandhi should clear stand on P leader Sam Pitroda sought more ‘facts’ related to Sam Pitroda's remarks: Amit Shah the Indian Air Force strike at a terror camp in Pakistan’s BJP National President Shri Amit Shah on 23 Balakot. In a series of tweets, PM Shri Modi lashed out at the March, 2019 asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi opposition alleging it has been insulting the armed forces. to clear his party's stand on Sam Pitroda's comments The PM said, “The most trusted advisor and guide of the on the Balkot air strike, saying the opposition party Congress President has kick-started the Pakistan National has "insulted" the sacrifice of soldiers and put a Day celebrations on behalf of the Congress, ironically by question mark on the nation's security. Launching a demeaning India’s Armed Forces. Shame!” Pitroda, in an fresh offensive against the Congress, Shri Shah said interview to news agency ANI, raised questions over the the opposition party is known for its "vote bank" and Balakot strike saying that international media did not agree "appeasement" politics during elections, but Rahul with the claims made in India about the IAF action against Gandhi should answer whether it is above national terror camp in Pakistan. He also questioned the policy to interest and if such politics can be done over the launch air strike across the Line of Control. He said “you grief of families of soldiers killed. The BJP President don’t jump on entire nation” if some terrorists target a place said the remarks of Sam Pitroda, a close confidant of in India. the Gandhi family, conveyed that the Pulwama terror Reacting to Pitroda’s comment, the PM said, attack was a "routine" incident carried out by a few “Opposition insults our forces time and again. I appeal to people for which Pakistan cannot be blamed. my fellow Indians- question Opposition leaders on their Mr Pitroda, he added, also questioned surgical statements. Tell them- 130 crore Indians will not forgive or strikes and air strikes launched by the Indian armed forget the Opposition for their antics. India stands firmly forces. "Does the Congress believe that terror with our forces.” “Loyal courtier of Congress’ royal dynasty incidents that happen in the country have nothing to admits what the nation already knew- Congress was do with the Pakistan government or Pakistan army?" unwilling to respond to forces of terror. This is a New India- Shri Shah asked, seeking Mr Gandhi's response. The we will answer terrorists in a language they understand and BJP President said the Congress has a habit of playing with interest”. down such comments of its leaders as their individual The Prime Minister also hit out at Samajwadi Party opinions, but it never takes any action against them leader Ram Gopal Yadav, who said that Pulwama terror while, many of whom are close to Gandhi, he added. attack was a “conspiracy” in which “soldiers were killed Noteworthy, Mr Pitroda, Indian Overseas Congress for votes”. “Opposition is the natural habitat of terror chief, had told media that one cannot "jump on entire apologists and questioners of our armed forces. This nation" (Pakistan) just because some people from reprehensible statement by a senior leader like Ram Gopal there "came here and attacked". Ji insults all those who have given their lives in protecting In an apparent reference to the Pulwama terror Kashmir. It humiliates the families of our martyrs,” PM Shri attack, the Congress leader had said attacks happen Modi wrote on Twitter. all the time and then referred to the Mumbai terror A CRPF convoy was targeted in a suicide bombing on strikes in 2008 when the Congress-led UPA was in February 14 in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama killing 40 power, saying the then government could have sent soldiers. Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed its planes but that is "not the right approach". claimed responsibility for the terror attack. On February 26, the IAF carried a strike at a terror camp, believed to Pakistan’s Balakot. The IAF later said that the mission was be the biggest training centre of the Jaish-e-Mohammed in “successful”.

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 29 Four Requests For Democracy The voting for the first phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha election will commence in few days time. Voting is among our prime duties. A vote signifies the willingness to contribute to the development trajectory of the nation. By voting, people connect themselves with the country’s dreams and aspirations. Let us create an environment where getting one’s voter card and casting a vote, especially for the first time, become occasions for celebration.There should also be an environment where not voting causes great anguish. Would you want a situation where something happens in the country that you disapprove of and you are forced to think - because I did not go vote that day, this unfortunate situation has arisen and the nation is suffering. Spare yourself from that regret and go vote! Today, I have the following requests to you all-

(1) Register now : (3) Plan well : • Give your voter card a place of pride in • The poll schedule is already out, giving you your life. ample time to plan your summer schedule. • Get registered as voters, (if you have not Try to be there on the day of voting. If you are already) at the earliest. planning a summer holiday, plan it before or • You can apply either online, on www. after the polling date. nvsp.in, or through the BLOs of • If for some reason, your place of your respective polling stations work and place of vote differ, make the or at the electoral registration effort to go and vote. Take that one day office. off for the future of our nation! • The 2019 elections are special because for the first time (4) Mobilise others : those born in the 21st century • Call upon your family, friends will be able to cast their votes. I and colleagues to vote. hope all eligible youngsters who • Motivate and, if need be, have not registered to vote will force them to venture out and do so and enrich our democracy exercise their franchise on by voting. polling day. • Higher voting means a stronger (2) Check thoroughly : democracy and a stronger democracy means a • Revisit the electoral rolls and check whether your developed India! name is there. • The last few elections, in various states and at the • Visit the websites of your respective state election Centre, have witnessed record turnout. offices and check the electoral rolls. • Continuing this encouraging trend, I urge my fellow • If your name is missing, raise it with the relevant Indians to vote in record numbers in the 2019 Lok authorities and if you have shifted residence, Sabha elections. ensure that your name shifts to the voter rolls of • I particularly call upon influencers from all fields, your new place of stay. including politics, industry, sports, films and other • Updating of rolls will continue till the last day of walks of life to take the lead in spreading voter filing of nominations in your particular constituency. awareness and value of high voting. However, do not wait for the last moments and so, • May these elections witness the highest ever the earlier, the better. turnout in the history of Indian elections!

30 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 From Neglected States to the Gateway to South Asia 5 Years of Modi Government in North East

rom being the ‘Neglected States of the Nation’ awaited railway access to the region. to ‘Look and Act East Policy’, the past five years • The “Transformation by Transportation” policy of F have been transformational for North East India. Narendra Modi included projects for more than 3,800 km The last time North East India received undivided attention of national highways and investment of Rs. 60,000 crore from lawmakers and policymakers was when Shri Atal Bihari under the Special Accelerated Road Development and Vajpayee became the first Prime Minister to spend a night in Rs. 30,000 crore under the project. the region. His tenure was dotted with multiple initiatives that • There has been concerted push to connect the terrain aimed to connect North East India through infrastructure through air in the past five years. An aviation manpower and technology, including the conception of a separate training institute, development of Rupsi airport, ministry, a non-lapsable pool of funds for the North Eastern expansion of the air facility at Dimapur are some of the Region, inclusion of Sikkim as a member of North Eastern projects undertaken by the Modi Government to ensure Council and a dedicated department for the development the region gets adequate gateways to the rest of India. of North East region. Unfortunately, after he demitted office, • In one of the pathbreaking policy announcements, the the region once again suffered from the tyranny of distance. Government re-classified bamboo from tree to grass. Since the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi assumed • Rima Das’s film Village Rockstars was awarded as the office, he once again directed policy attention towards the best national film award. Recognitions and rewards region across various dimensions of development including such as these provide motivation to budding talent economy, infrastructure, employment, industry, and culture. in the region and breaks the conventional In a democracy, to bring pathbreaking changes, interaction wisdom that suggests North East with lawmakers is inevitable. The Bhartiya Janata Party has limited future due to the tyranny with a committed leadership of distance. and intricate network of cadres, • An integrated large-scale Eri achieved political success in farming was launched in Arunachal the region and provided much Pradesh under the North East Region Textile needed will to collaborate with Promotion Scheme (NERTPS). Financial the Centre and work towards assistance to 4000 beneficiaries under the taking the region forward. To put this in NERTPS has been announced along with skill perspective, during his tenure,the PM himself has training to Eri silk farmers and weavers. visited the region more than 30 times. The party With BJP at the helm of affairs, regional policies fortified its political presence across the North-East, were reinforced and reinvigorated at the National level. including the bastion of the Left i.e. Tripura. The NDA It gave the region visibility and recognition across the is in power in six out of seven North East states in the region. political, social and cultural realm, which eventually Some of the steps that have altered the socio-economic made the region more secure and brought it closer canvas of North East India since 2014 include: to the rest of the Nation. With growing number of food • India’s longest rail and road bridge, 4.94 km Bogibeel parks, textile industry, and information technology, North Bridge was inaugurated by the Prime Minister in 2018. East has the potential to be the trade link between India • It took a Modi Government at the Centre to give railway and South East Asia and emerge as a new normal in the accessibility to the region. The Government ensured that years to come. Region’s significance has been enhanced 900 km tracks of broad gauge are laid in the region. 88- with the South Asian Sub-Regional Economic Cooperation km Dhansiri-Kohima railway track that connected Kohima (SASEC) road connectivity programme, a response to to the national railway network along with Rajdhani China’s ambitious One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative Express, Tripura Sundari Express, provided the long- will be crucial.

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 31 PM's Blog Institutional respect and Institutional contempt - two contrasting approaches

for the poor and educating the to curtail free speech. Speaking youth. truth to power, which is the • Reflective of this paradigm shift hallmark of a free press was is the fact that now, there is a seen as vulgar and indecent. Narendra Modi Government that puts institutions • The recent UPA years saw the above everything else. bringing of a law that could land n the summer of 2014, the • India has seen that whenever you in prison for posting anything people voted decisively for: dynastic politics has been “offensive.” I • Honesty over dynasty. powerful, institutions have taken • A tweet against the son of a • Development over decay. a severe beating. powerful UPA minister could • Security over stagnation. land innocent citizens in jail. • Opportunities over obstacles. Parliament: • Just a few days ago, the nation • Vikas over vote-bank politics. • The overall productivity of the 16th watched with horror when a few • Indians were tired of our beloved Lok Sabha was a phenomenal youngsters were arrested for nation being in the Fragile Five, 85%, which is significantly higher expressing their true feelings at a where corruption, cronyism than the productivity of the 15th programme in Karnataka, where and nepotism made headlines Lok Sabha. the Congress is sharing power. instead of anything positive. • Between 2014 and 2019, the • But I want to tell the Congress • India voted to shed the baggage Rajya Sabha’s productivity was that no amount of intimidation of the past in pursuit of a better 68%. will change the ground realities. future. • The Interim Budget session Curbing freedom of expression • The mandate of 2014 was witnessed productivity of 89% in will not change people’s poor epoch-making also because it the Lok Sabha and a mere 8% in impression of the party. was for the first time in the history the Rajya Sabha. of India that a non-dynastic party • The nation knows the numerical Constitution and Courts: was blessed with a complete dynamics of both houses. It is • When the sun set on the evening majority. clear that when a non-dynasty of 25th June 1975, it took with it • When a Government works with party in higher number its the democratic ethos of India. the spirit of ‘India First’ instead tendency to work more is visible. • A hurried radio address by the of ‘Family First’, it shows in its • India should ask- why was the then Prime Minister showed the working. Rajya Sabha not working as extent to which the Congress • Over the last five years, the productively as the Lok Sabha? can go to safeguard the interests Indian economy has been the Which were the forces disrupting of one dynasty. cynosure of the world’s eyes. the House and why? • The Emergency made the nation • India has made remarkable a prison overnight. Even to achievements in sanitation Press and Expression: express was to commit sin. coverage (from 38% in 2014 • Dynastic parties have never • The 42nd Amendment put curbs to 98% now), banking the been comfortable with a free on the courts, covering the unbanked, financing the un- and vibrant press. No wonder, Parliament and more. financed, building futuristic the very first Constitutional • It took a groundswell of public infrastructure, homes for the Amendment brought in by the opinion to end the Emergency homeless, providing healthcare Congress government sought but the anti-constitutional

32 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019 PM's Blog

mindset of those who imposed parties just before crucial terrorists, Congress questions it remained. The Congress has parliamentary votes. that too. imposed Article 356 almost a • Tensions were deliberately hundred times, with Mrs. Indira created in organisations such as Congress’ own (lack of) Gandhi herself doing so about IB and RAW. internal democracy and fifty times. If they did not like a • A policy decision taken by no sense of entitlement: state government or leader the less than the Union Cabinet was • Political parties are vibrant government was dismissed. torn into pieces by someone bodies that manifest diverse • Congress’ contempt for the who was not a member of any public opinion. Sadly, Congress courts is anyway legendary. ministry and that too, in a press does not believe in internal It was Mrs. Indira Gandhi conference. democracy. who called for a “committed • The NAC was created as a body • If a leader dares to dream to judiciary”, which seeks to make parallel to the Prime Minister’s head that party, he or she is the courts more loyal to a family Office. And then, Congress talks shunted out of the Congress. than to the Constitution. about institutions? • The sense of entitlement can be • This pursuit of a “committed • In the 1990s, a fictitious spy seen in their conduct towards judiciary” made Congress scandal was created in India’s routine legal processes. At overlook several respected premier space agency ISRO just present, their top leadership is Judges while appointing the to suit Kerala Congress’ factional on bail vis-a-vis a major scam. Chief Justice of India. politics. It did not matter to them When the authorities seek to • Congress’ modus operandi is that a brilliant scientist had to question them on their dealings, simple- reject, discredit and suffer due to that. they do not even bother to reply. threaten. If a judicial verdict goes • Are they scared of accountability against them, they reject it, then Armed Forces: or do they not believe in it? they discredit the judge and • Congress has always seen the thereafter, talk about bringing defence sector as a source of Think wisely: impeachment motions against income which is why the armed • From the press to parliament. the judge. forces never got the respect • From soldiers to free speech. from the Congress that they • From the constitution to the Government bodies: deserved. courts. • In a telling comment, former • After 1947, every Congress • Institutional insult is the Congress Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi government has seen multiple way. called the Planning Commission defence scams. They began with • Everyone is wrong, only the led by Dr. Manmohan Singh, ‘A jeeps and then moved to guns, Congress is correct. bunch of jokers.’ submarines and helicopters. • As you go to vote- remember the • This comment gives you a • Every middleman is linked to one past and how one family’s desire glimpse of how Congress treats family. for power cost the nation so government institutions. • When a top Congress leader greatly. • Remember the UPA years, calls the Army Chief a Gunda • If they could do it then, they can when the Congress questioned and is subsequently promoted in surely do it now. the CAG just because that the party rank and file, it shows • Eternal vigilance remains the institution exposed their corrupt their scant regard for the forces. price of liberty. shenanigans like 2G, Coal Scam • When our forces strike at terrorist • Let us stay vigilant and work etc. elements, Congress leaders hard to strengthen the intuitions • CBI became the Congress accuse the political leadership of given to us by the makers of our Bureau of Investigation- it was doing ‘Khoon Ki Dalali.’ Constitution. used time and again on political • When our air warriors strike at (The writer is Prime Minister of India)

01-15 APRIL, 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 33 The Hon’ble Prime Minister SHRI NARENDRA MODI and BJP National President Shri Amit Shah become Life Members of Kamal Sandesh BECOME PART OF A VIBRANT IDEOLOGICAL MOVEMENT SUBSCRIPTION DETAILS Name : ......

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34 I KAMAL SANDESH KI 01-15AMAL APRIL, 2019 SANDESH - DEDICATED TO NATIONAL CAUSE PM Shri Narendra Modi, BJP National President Shri Amit Shah and other senior party leaders at the BJP Central Election The Hon’ble Prime Minister SHRI NARENDRA MODI and committee meeting in New Delhi BJP National President Shri Amit Shah become Life Members of Kamal Sandesh BECOME PART OF A VIBRANT IDEOLOGICAL MOVEMENT SUBSCRIPTION DETAILS Name : ......

Address : ...... BJP National President Shri Amit Shah welcomes PM PM Shri Narendra Modi at the Dandi Museum in Gandhinagar Shri Narendra Modi to the BJP National Headquarters in New Delhi on the anniversary of Dandi March ...... Pin : ...... Phone : ...... Mobile : (1)...... (2)...... E-mail : ......

One Year `350/- Life Time (English or Hindi) `3000/- SUBSCRIPTION TYPE Three Years `1000/- Life Time (English+Hindi) `5000/- (DETAIL OF THE PAYMENT) Cheque/Draft No. :...... Date :...... Bank : ...... Note : * DD/Cheque will be made in favour of "Kamal Sandesh" * Money order and Cash accepted with details (Subscriber's Signature) SEND YOUR DD/CHEQUE ON THIS ADDRESS Dr. Mookerji Smruti Nyas, PP-66, Subramania Bharati Marg, New Delhi-110003 Ph.: 011-23381428 Fax: 011-23387887 E-mail: [email protected] PM Shri Narendra Modi addressing over 25 lakh Chowkidars Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Minister Smt. through audio bridge in New Delhi Menaka Gandhi with the recipients of the Nari Shakti Puraskar KAMAL SANDESH - DEDICATED TO NATIONAL CAUSE in 01-15New APRIL,Delhi 2019 I KAMAL SANDESH I 35 Date of Posting : (i) 27-28 Adv. Month (ii) 12-13 Same Month RNI No. DELENG/2006/16838 Office of Posting : Lodhi Road H.O. New Delhi “REGISTERED” DL(S)-17/3265/2018-20 36 Pages with Cover Licence to Post without Prepayment Licence No. U(S)-42/2018-20

36 I KAMAL SANDESH I 01-15 APRIL, 2019