Modi urges youth to help build nation in R-Day speech

You did not have the opportunity to die for the nation, but have the chance to live for it, says Guj CM in motivational address

Terming the 64th Republic Day celebrations at Ahwa village in the tribal-dominated Dang district today as "a historic feat", Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi appealed the youth to contribute to the nation-building.

The tricolour was unfurled on this occasion by Governor Dr Kamla, followed by a grand police parade.

"A small gram Panchayat like Ahwa hosting the state-level celebrations of 64th Republic Day...It is a historic feat for the country and highlights people's strength. I congratulate them," Modi said after the function.

"The population of those who were born after the independence is 65 per cent, it's a generation which never got the opportunity to die for nation, but have got the chance to live for the country," Modi said.

"This generation should take a pledge to contribute to nation-building and uplifting of poor in whatever little way they can."

Governor Dr Kamla said in her message that the Republic Day provides an opportunity for introspection. Gujarat was making its precious contribution in the journey of all-round development of the nation, which is a matter of pride.

The state had set new benchmarks of development, and had emerged as a trendsetter in the country, she said.