We should protect and preserve our unity, integrity: PM on GST

Asserting that India must strive to protect and preserve its unity and integrity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday through the 23rd installment of his monthly special-Mann Ki Baat hailed the unanimous passage of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Amendment Bill.

The Prime Minister said, "It is the strength of the country that unity of vision has led all political parties to join hands on GST. As these are the two mantras with which we can deliver the best for the people of our country, we must strive to protect and preserve our unity and integrity. Unity in diversity is our strength and it is our bounden duty to ensure that all of us as citizens, as a society, as a government give strength to the voices which maintain our unity and integrity for a brighter tomorrow."

The Prime Minister also highlighted the efforts made by the Centre and states to combat the floods.

"We were reeling under flood situation this August. However, the collective efforts of the people, states and Center have tried to do their level best to tackle the situation," he said.

Meanwhile, he also expressed his gratitude to people who had quit using subsidised LPG.

"I may be the Prime Minister, but I am also touched by the gratitude of the people. I got a letter from an 84-year-old lady who gave up her subsidy on LPG on my appeal. She said when she got a thank you letter from my side, it was not less than a Padmashree for her," said Modi.

"My idea is to send one crore letters in person to such people. I would also like to share that a 90-year-old mother says she would be sending a donation of Rs.50,000 to ward off poor ladies from polluting chulhas. It is indeed a lesson for all of us," he added.