Nehru's 125th birth anniversary should focus on youth, says PM

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Friday said the 125th birth anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of independent India, should focus on inspiring youth, and showcase his approach towards backward communities.

The culture ministry is the nodal ministry for carrying out activities related to the commemoration.

In November 2013, the government decided to commemorate the birth anniversary of Nehru for a year, starting from the 125th anniversary on Nov 14, 2014, to Nov 14, 2015.

"I am glad that the ministry of culture has taken the initiative to begin discharging, in right earnest, our responsibility of commemorating the 125th anniversary of Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, our first prime minister and a great visionary, statesman and nation-builder," the prime minister said in a statement.

"It is important that 125 years of this great son of India should be celebrated in a most befitting manner, especially with a focus on inspiring the younger generation about his life, achievements and contribution, both nationally and internationally," he said.

These remarks came at the meeting of the national committee on the commemoration of the 125th birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Every year, Nehru's birthday is celebrated as Children's Day.

"I am glad that we have a galaxy of thinkers and experts in this forum. I am sure they will pool in their wisdom and expertise in the formulation of an appropriate plan of action," he said.

The prime minister has also urged the members of the committee to refer to Nehru's contribution in the field of nation building, democracy and scientific research, as well as his approach towards under-privileged and backward communities.

"I will urge all of you to think of creative and meaningful projects which will not only focus on and perpetuate the memory of Jawaharlal Nehru, but also act as the source of inspiration to one and all, especially with reference to his contributions in the field of nation building, democracy, promotion of scientific research and industrial advancement," he said.

"The commemoration should underline his entire approach to public affairs, ranging from foreign policy to agriculture, from cultural diversity to social harmony, from peaceful co-existence of communities to speedy development of all peoples, especially the under-privileged and backward communities," he said.