Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tributes to Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary, describing him as a visionary nation-builder whose unwavering commitment to India’s unity, institutional development and self-reliance continues to inspire generations.
Addressing the 125th Janma Jayanti celebrations through a video message, the Prime Minister apologised for not being physically present due to his pre-scheduled foreign visit and said technology had enabled him to participate in the historic event virtually.
“With the help of technology, I am joining you in this historic program,” the Prime Minister said.
Calling the occasion historic for both the nation and West Bengal, PM Modi paid homage to Mookerjee, saying, “Today the land of the country is reverently remembering a visionary dedicated to the integrity of India.”
He said the ideas envisioned by Mookerjee decades ago are shaping modern India even today.
“Today we are praising the seed of that idea which is playing a major role in giving direction to modern India.”
Highlighting the values that define nation-building, the Prime Minister said, “When all these links connect with each other, then the fulfillment of the resolution is certain.”
Paying his respects on the occasion, he said, “I bow down to Dr. Mookerjee on this occasion and offer my tributes.”
‘Nation First’ Government Gives Due Respect to National Heroes
PM Modi said the ongoing nationwide celebrations marking Mookerjee’s 125th birth anniversary reflected the government’s commitment to honouring national icons.
“When there is a government with the resolution of Nation First, then national heroes also get due respect.”
He also praised the West Bengal government for organising grand celebrations and observed, “Today’s program is also a part of that same respect for one’s heritage.”
Recalling the events surrounding the Partition in 1947, the Prime Minister said Mookerjee played a decisive role in ensuring that West Bengal remained an integral part of India.
Quoting Dr. Mookerjee, he said, “As Dr. Mookerjee famously stated, the foundation of a golden future can be laid only on the ground of national unity.”
The Prime Minister added that Mookerjee’s resolve continues to inspire the country even today.
“We feel the massive political willpower of that roar even today when we look at today’s circumstances.”
‘Fulfilled Mookerjee’s Dream’ by Removing Article 370
PM Modi highlighted Mookerjee’s lifelong campaign against separate constitutional arrangements for Jammu and Kashmir.
“He fiercely opposed the talk of two constitutions, two prime ministers, and two flags in the country.”
Referring to the abrogation of Article 370, the Prime Minister said his government had fulfilled Mookerjee’s vision of complete national integration.
“Today our government is proud that by bringing down that wall, we have fulfilled Dr. Mookerjee’s dream.”
He said Mookerjee’s vision was of an India where every citizen enjoyed equal rights under one Constitution.
“This is an extension of that same national vision which he defined with his life.”
He further added, “Today the Constitution of India is implemented with full pride and glory throughout the country.”
Institution Building Was Central to Mookerjee’s Vision
The Prime Minister said Mookerjee clearly understood the importance of strong institutions in nation-building.
“He understood very well that the essence of nation-building is in the building of institutions.”
Recalling his tenure as the youngest Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University, PM Modi said Mookerjee sought to free India’s education system from colonial thinking and connect it with the country’s cultural roots.
“His belief was that if India has to become a self-confident nation, its education must be connected to the Indian soul.”
Drawing parallels with the National Education Policy, he said, “The dream that Dr. Mookerjee saw regarding local languages, our government has fulfilled it.”
Foundations of Industrial Self-Reliance
Highlighting Mookerjee’s contribution as independent India’s first Industry Minister, PM Modi credited him with establishing institutions that became pillars of India’s economic development.
“He laid the foundation for such national institutions which became India’s economic strength for decades to come.”
The Prime Minister cited institutions such as Chittaranjan Locomotive Works, Sindri Fertilizer Plant, Damodar Valley Corporation and IFCI as examples of Mookerjee’s far-sighted vision.
He added that these institutions were never viewed merely as factories or industrial units.
“For him, all these were the meditative centers of nation-building.”
The Prime Minister said this philosophy continues to guide India’s development journey.
“This very spirit is the inspiration for a developed India today.”
Call to Youth for Viksit Bharat
Calling upon the youth to carry forward Mookerjee’s ideals, PM Modi urged them to work collectively towards building a developed and self-reliant India.
“We have to collectively fulfill the resolution of a Developed India.”
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister shared a message of perseverance and dedication inspired by Mookerjee’s life.
“Whatever work you start, do it with full seriousness and do not leave it incomplete.”
The Prime Minister said Mookerjee’s life and ideals remain a guiding force for India’s pursuit of national unity, institutional strength, self-reliance and the vision of a Viksit Bharat.
