Raipur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that India has consistently acted as a first responder during global crises, reaffirming the nation’s role as a dependable partner in times of need.
Speaking after inaugurating the Shanti Shikhar Centre for Spiritual Learning and Meditation of the Brahma Kumaris in Nava Raipur, Modi said his government’s guiding principle is that the development of the nation is driven by the development of its states.
“Whenever a crisis or disaster strikes anywhere in the world, India is among the first to extend a helping hand. India is always the first responder,” the Prime Minister said.
“We are those who see Shiva in every living being. In our tradition, every religious ritual ends with a prayer for global welfare and harmony,” he added.
Modi said the government is working under the Viksit Bharat (Developed India) mission, guided by the belief that strong states are the foundation of a strong nation. He also praised institutions like Brahma Kumaris for their contributions to spiritual and social upliftment.
“Institutions like Brahma Kumaris have a vital role in this journey towards a developed India. I have been associated with you for decades. I am not a guest here — I am one of you,” he said.
Marking Chhattisgarh’s 25th foundation day, Modi congratulated the people of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Uttarakhand, which were all formed 25 years ago.
Earlier, during the ‘Dil Ki Baat’ programme at Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospital, Modi interacted with 2,500 children who had successfully undergone treatment for congenital heart diseases under the Gift of Life initiative. Former India cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar also attended the event.
Later in the day, the Prime Minister will participate in the Chhattisgarh Rajat Mahotsav, marking the state’s silver jubilee. He is scheduled to inaugurate and lay foundation stones for developmental projects worth ₹14,260 crore across sectors such as roads, industry, healthcare, and energy.
Modi will also inaugurate the new Chhattisgarh Assembly building and unveil a statue of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
