The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu, today called upon the people to give meaning to the words in our preamble to the Constitution of India. 

Describing the Indian constitution as a visionary document that reflects the core values of India, Shri Naidu said that it ensures fundamental rights to citizens while reminding them of certain fundamental duties. "In the preamble to our constitution, we have solemnly resolved to constitute India into a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic and to secure to all its citizens: Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. This is what India is all about," he added.

Addressing the participants of the 61st National Defence College (NDC) course on the topic "India's National Core Values, Interests and Objectives", the Vice President said that peaceful co-existence, global development and environmental protection are the key elements of India’s values. He said that India’s interests and objectives are guided by its universal vision enunciated and practised over the last many centuries. He said “We should not lose sight of these objectives as we move forward to shape the India we are dreaming of.” Shri Naidu stressed the need for Indians to recognise their inner strengths and build upon them. He emphasised the need to be resilient, self-reliant and self-confident.

Vice President said that, unlike other old civilisations that perished with time, the Indian civilisation survived foreign invasions because of its values, culture, heritage and traditions. He said that Indians believe in the spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' which means 'The whole world is one family' and have always propagated for universal brotherhood and advocated for peaceful co-existence with others. Noting that the Indian civilization has always prayed for the wellbeing of the entire world, Shri Naidu said that since time immemorial, India has shared its knowledge,  skills and practices with the rest of the world so that others too can reap benefits. He said, "From zero to yoga, India’s contribution to various fields, underpinned by the virtue of 'share and care', has been immense."  

Pointing to the emergence of negative forces that are threatening to retard the progress of the nation, the Vice President said, "We have to prepare our defences to defeat these destructive forces. We cannot ignore the threat of terrorism, insurgency and de-stabilizing rhetoric of hatred and bigotry." Quoting the Preamble to the constitution of UNESCO, Shri Naidu said, “Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defences of peace must be constructed”. He called these words an echo of the Indian value system that believes, ‘we need to change our mindset if we have to change the world around us’. 

Highlighting the need for more voices that steer clear of violent thoughts and emotions and lead the countries of the world to progress together, the Vice President said that we need to forge alliances that foster peace, nurture creativity and enhance the quality of life of people on this planet. "That is what India has always advocated and that is what makes it a relevant, credible voice in contemporary times," he added.

The Vice President said that India driven by the mantra of self-reliance is emerging as a global power and extending help to friendly nations-- be it supporting them in their growth, fighting crises like the COVID-19 pandemic or providing support amidst natural calamities.

The Vice President said that India is blessed with a huge demographic advantage and we must fully tap the enormous human resources potential to fast-track the country’s progress in different fields. He said that we have a unity of purpose to be a competent, confident and strong nation with people who enjoy a high quality of life. He said, "If all of us start working as 'Team India' and dedicate ourselves to the development of our nation, the day will not be far off when we can claim our famed position as 'Vishwaguru' once again." Shri Naidu emphasised the need to harness our strengths not only for the people of our country but for the entire humanity. He said, "We must remember India shines when the 135 crore people of India shine along with it." 

Noting that India is manufacturing state-of-the-art space launch vehicles, missiles, aircraft and other defence equipment, the Vice President said that India has the potential to be a leading manufacturer of defence equipment too.

 The Vice President congratulated the participants of the 61st National Defence College (NDC) course for becoming a part of the legacy of the prestigious institute. Conveying his greetings for the upcoming festival of Deepawali, Shri Naidu said, "I do hope that you will have a wonderful Deepavali and take back pleasant memories of your training at this college and use the knowledge and insights gained here to illuminate the world around you bringing peace, harmony and good cheer wherever you are."

Later answering question from the participants, the Vice President voiced his concern over erosion of values and said that leaders in various fields should set an example to others through their conduct. He expressed his disappointment over the falling standards in politics and public life. 

Referring to various achievements of India in the past 75 years, Shri Naidu said apart from creating infrastructure, providing safety and security and making the lives of people better, India has peacefully conducted elections and changed regimes.

India is a peace-loving country and never nurtured ambitions of aggression. 

Asked for his advice to youngsters, Shri Naidu said they should stay positive, be disciplined and work hard to achieve their goals.

Air Marshal D. Choudhury AVSM VM VSM, participants of the 61st National Defence College (NDC) course and other officials were present during the virtual event.

*****

MS/NS/DP