Bengaluru, 10 May (H.S.):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the newly built Meditation Hall at the Art of Living Foundation ashram on Kanakapura Road in Bengaluru and also launched several initiatives on the occasion. In his address, the Prime Minister spoke at length on spirituality, youth power, environmental protection, technological progress and the role of society.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the strength of society is the true foundation of nation-building. Governments alone cannot transform a country. It is only when society actively participates that a nation reaches new heights. The Prime Minister said that this morning brought him a different experience. The welcome by children with Vedic chants, Gurudev’s blessings and the service tradition of the Art of Living would remain etched in his memory forever.

Referring to Bengaluru’s unique identity, the Prime Minister said that while the city is known worldwide for its software and services, it has also taken India’s spiritual consciousness and cultural identity to new heights. He said that the remarkable blend of technology and spirituality is Bengaluru’s greatest hallmark.

Praising the service activities of the Art of Living, he said, “When the resolve is clear and the work is done in a spirit of service, every effort produces positive results.”

Emphasising the role of society, Prime Minister Modi said that he has always believed society is more powerful than governments. Any campaign can succeed only when the strength of society stands behind it. Referring to the achievements of India’s youth, he said that science and technology are changing rapidly across the world today.

India is not merely part of these changes; it is also leading in many areas. He said, “India’s digital revolution has made the country a global leader in digital payments. Infrastructure development is progressing at an unprecedented pace, and India has become the world’s third-largest ecosystem in innovation.”

Referring to the achievements of young scientists, the Prime Minister said that today India’s youth are sending their own satellites into space. Behind these achievements, he said, are youth power and inspiration drawn from the art of living.

Focus on environment

Speaking on environmental and agricultural challenges, the

Prime Minister said that chemical fertilisers have damaged our land and fields. Protecting Mother Earth from chemicals is also part of the art of living. He called for expanding the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign and said that society has a very important role in environmental protection. The Prime Minister said that environment and economy cannot be separated. Saving every drop of water is our responsibility. He said that through the ‘Per Drop, More Crop’ scheme, farmers are being encouraged to use water more efficiently.

Prime Minister Modi said that the movement which inspires life in balance with nature is Mission LiFE. It sends the message of a responsible and aware lifestyle. He added that, in his view, Mission LiFE is also a direct expression of the Art of Living.

Several dignitaries, including Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, were present at the event. Children welcomed the Prime Minister with Vedic chants. After offering prayers to Lord Ganesha, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Meditation Hall and praised the spiritual atmosphere of the ashram. Thousands of devotees, volunteers and dignitaries attended the programme. After the inauguration of the Meditation Hall, the ashram campus filled with spiritual enthusiasm and energy.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar