Gandhi Jayanti 2019 Updates: Narendra Modi declares India open defecation-free, sets 2022 target to phase out single use plastic

Narendra Modi offers prayers at a Navratri event in Ahmedabad

Scores of people dance to a special garba song carrying the message supporting cleanliness.

Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi offers prayers at a #Navratri event in Ahmedabad. Chief Minister Vijay Rupani also present. pic.twitter.com/LHeaKOhPqg

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Satisfied that on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, we’re witnessing the fulfillment of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan, Modi wrote in the guestbook at Sabarmati Ashram

PM's message in visitor's book at Sabarmati Ashram:I'm satisfied that on the occasion of #GandhiAt150, we're witnessing the fulfillment of his dream of 'Swachh Bharat'. I feel lucky that on this occasion when India has successfully stopped open defecation I'm here at the ashram. pic.twitter.com/EfwB60AB4T

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Modi hails government schemes aimed at bettering health of citizens, facilitating development of villages

Health held utmost important for Gandhi ji and we are attempting to be the same way with Yoga Divas Ayushmann Bharat and Fit India movement, Modi said.

He also said that Gandhi’s dream of every village being self-sustainable will be fulfilled through the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Madhyam.

“By the Ujjwala Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Aawas Yojana, the Jan Dhan Scheme, Saubhagya Yojana, we are helping the person standing at the last step of the ladder, in line with Gandhi Ji’s philosophy,” Modi said.

He urged the citizens of India to helps the country and its poor. He ended his address by attributing the success of schemes not to any party or political leader, but to the 130 crore Indians.

Modi announces 2022 deadline to phase out single use plastic, Rs 3.5 lakh crore for Jal Jeevan Mission

The government has decided to spend Rs 3.5 lakh crore on the Jal Jeevan Mission aimed at taking steps water recharge and water recycling, Modi announced.

“Sanitation, conservation of environment and animals were dear to Gandhi ji. Plastic is a major threat to all of them. So, we have to achieve the goal to eradicate single use plastic from the country by the year 2022,” he said.​

Modi informed the audience that in the last three weeks, 20,000 tonnes of plastic waste has been collected and the usage of carry bags made of plastic has been reduced. Crores of Indians have joined the initiative and have given up the usage of single-use plastic. Behavioral change is the basic need for this initiative, the Prime Minister said.

Over 75 lakh people employed due to Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan: Modi

Indians used to hesitate talking about toilets, but today, it has become an integral part of Indians’ thought-process, Modi said.​

Modi quoted a UNICEF report to say that in the last five years, a positive effect of Rs 20 lakh crores has been witnessed due to Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. “Over 75 lakh people have been employed due to this mission, most of them coming from the rural parts of the country,” he said.

World is appreciating our work towards building toilets, says Narendra Modi

While the world is appreciating and awarding us, for providing toilets to more than 60 crore people in 60 months and building more than 11 crore toilets, what gives me happiness is that women all over the country do not have to wait for the dark hours of the day or suffer from serious diseases.

Gandhi ji used to say ‘Be the change you want to see in the world’ and thus, we picked up brooms and started cleaning the society.

Gandhi led Satyagrah and Swachhagrah from Sabarmati Ashram, says Narendra Modi

At the Sabarmati riverfront, Narendra Modi said, “The entire world is celebrating Bapu’s birth anniversary. A few days ago, the UN had issued a commemorative stamp in the memory of Gandhi ji and we have issued another one today.”

The Prime Minister said that he felt a new energy at the Sabarmati Ashram today. “Bapu had started Swachhagrah and Satyagrah from the Ashram,” he said.

He said that the riverfront is witness to history today, when people of rural India have announced that their villages are now open defecation-free. “They have used self-inspiration, self-will and co-operation to achieve this through the Swachh Bharat Mission,’ Modi said.

Narendra Modi begins address at Sabarmati riverfront

Modi welcomes the village heads and cleanliness workers to the land of “Chakradhari Mohan”. “You have worked hard for five years, with the spirit of giving back to the society,” he said.

He also paid tributes to Lal Bahadur Shastri and said that the state of Gujarat is painted in the fervour of Navratri.

Listen to Mahatma Gandhi speaking after Prarthana Sabha on 29 November, 1947 on the benefits of development reaching the poor

India is a country of villages, and the country cannot develop without the development of its villages

Listen to #MahatmaGandhi speaking after Prarthana Sabha on 29th November 1947, on the benefits of development reaching the poor#GandhiAt150 pic.twitter.com/mO8D0YNiit

— PIB in Maharashtra 🇮🇳 (@PIBMumbai) October 2, 2019

Narendra Modi unveils stamps inspired by the life and achievements of Mahatma Gandhi

He also unveiled a Rs 150 coin made of silver.

10,000 students set record for assembling and lighting own solar lamps

On the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary, over 10,000 students set the Guinness Book of World Records by “assembling and lighting” their own solar lamps as part of the Global Student Solar Assembly.

Congratulations to over 10,000 students for setting Guiness Book of World Records by "assembling & lighting" their own solar lamps as part of the Global Student Solar Assembly at IGI Stadium in New Delhi. This is #NewIndia. #GandhiJayanti #MannMeinBapu pic.twitter.com/dwOKSzmxAk

— Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) October 2, 2019

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi in Guwahati

Modi takes the stage at the Sabarmati riverfront

The Prime Minister is set to address 20,000 village heads and Swachhgrahis. The Swachhta anthem has been unveiled ahead of Modi’s speech.

Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives for the 'Swachh Bharat Diwas' programme at Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad. Chief Minister Vijay Rupani also present. pic.twitter.com/DH3xZ7YYm1

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Modi dedicated a large replica of Mahatma Gandhi’s spectacles to the Father of the Nation.

Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad. pic.twitter.com/OjDslaO7m7

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Narendra Modi reaches Sabarmati riverfront

In his address to the nation from the Sabarmati riverfront, Modi will declare India open defecation-free. He dedicated a large replica of Mahatma Gandhi’s spectacles to the Father of the Nation. The decision was taken after suggestions were invited on what most accurately represents Gandhi.

At the Ashram, Narendra Modi logged an entry into the visitor’s book, garlanded a bust and portrait of Mahatma Gandhi and interacted with volunteers

Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with children and volunteers at the Sabarmati Ashram. #GandhiJayanti #GandhiAt150 pic.twitter.com/pYlSpOyQcQ

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes a tour of the Sabarmati Ashram

#WATCH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani also present. #GandhiAt150 pic.twitter.com/GXyFzALQIF

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Archived images of Mahatma Gandhi in Bihar, where he launched the Champaran movement

#MahatmaGandhi & #Bihar -1/3
Mahatma Gandhi had a special place in his heart for Bihar & its people. Right since Champaran Satyagrah in April ,1917. He visited Bihar several times during his life.#150yearsofGandhi #Gandhi150 pic.twitter.com/ckSxlx3lUM

— PIB in Bihar 🇮🇳 (@PIB_Patna) October 2, 2019

Narendra Modi reaches Sabarmati Ashram

Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. #GandhiJayanti #GandhiAt150 pic.twitter.com/hdtvzcGPqh

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Air India celebrates Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary

#FlyAI : Air India pays tribute to Bapu on 150th birth anniversary. Image of our Beloved Bapu painted on VT-CIO A320 aircraft.#GandhiAt150 #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/EWltm92WVD

— Air India (@airindia) October 2, 2019

Howdy, Modi was widely attended despite heavy rains in Houston, says Modi

Talking about the recently held Howdy, Modi event in Houston, Texas, the Prime Minister said that the respect for India at the international platform has increased owing to India’s contribution.

“It was raining heavily on the Howdy, Modi event day, but the California governor himself came and attended the event. Democrats and Republicans were there. President Donald Trump’s attendance at the event made it special. He did not even care about security when I requested him for victory lap in Houston,” Modi said.

Gandhi’s teachings offer solutions to all of world’s problems, says Narendra Modi

Modi said that Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th anniversary has been marked at the United Nations with immense enthusiasm. “Take any problem the world faces, the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi offer solutions to those challenges,” the Prime Minister said.

He also told the audience that during his US visit, people sang a bhajan liked by Gandhi ‘Vaishnav Jan Toh Tene Kahiye’.

Roadway in Canada’s Winnipeg named after Mahatma Gandhi

#Gandhi150: Greetings to everyone on the occasion of the 150th #GandhiJayanti. DYK? The roadway leading to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg is named as Honorary #MahatmaGandhi Way! pic.twitter.com/AfkQn71Mso

— Canada in India (@CanadainIndia) October 2, 2019

Modi arrived at the Ahmedabad airport on Wednesday evening

Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Ahmedabad. He will visit the Sabarmati Ashram today, on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. #GandhiAt150 #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/1IkAjibMAV

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattanaik dedicates sand art to Mahatma Gandhi

Tribute to bapu ji : I am sharing some of my SandArts #GandhiJayanti  #Gandhi150  #GandhiAt150 pic.twitter.com/4GlCkA1nYc

— Sudarsan Pattnaik (@sudarsansand) October 2, 2019

United Nationa Association of Australia speads the message of peace and non-violence

Today is International Day of Non-Violence 🕊

Marked on the birthday of Mahatma #Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence, this day is an opportunity to disseminate the message of #nonviolence #nonviolenceday pic.twitter.com/OK3YBRLZbj

— UNA-Australia (@UNAA_National) October 2, 2019

Respect, support for India has increased on world stage, Narendra Modi says in Ahmedabad

Respect and support for India has increased on the world stage, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in an address after reaching Ahmedabad. “After winning 2014 polls, when I first went to UNGA, I appealed to the world for an International Yoga Day. At the UNO, among all such propositions, this one got thumping support and was passed at a quick pace. This, in itself, is a big achievement,” he said.

Those indulging in politics of falsehood cannot understand Gandhian ideals, says Sonia Gandhi

Congress president Sonia Gandhi said those thirsty for power who consider themselves supreme and indulge in the politics of falsehood cannot understand Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of truth, self rule and selfless service.
 

In what appeared to be a swipe at the present BJP leadership, Sonia Gandhi told party workers and leaders at Rajghat that the Mahatma’s soul would be pained by what has been happening in India in the last few years.

Volunteers from the Canadian High Commission in Delhi take part in the plogging run initiative

Volunteer Ploggers from the 🇨🇦 High Commission in action at today's Plog run#IndiaPlogRun#IAmLessPlastic

@UnitedWayDelhi@CanadainIndia@EyesAbroad @amandastrohan @DKentCAN pic.twitter.com/qfAaAkMKSF

— Andrew Smith (@SmithAndrewR) October 2, 2019

Following Gandhi’s philosophy every day best way to express love for nation, says Mumbai-based environmentalist

In an initiative led by Mumbai-based environmentalist Afroz Shah, city residents conducted a cleanliness drive at a beach on Wednesday. “Gandhi ji’s dream of a clean India must be fulfilled, it must be done every week. We must follow his philosophy everyday. Desh se pyaar karo aur pyaar isi tarah jatao (This is the way to express love towards the nation),” Shah said.

Mumbai: A clean-up drive was conducted at Versova beach. #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/Nbww5iAcap

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

A BSF dog squad  takes part in a cleanliness drive at the Jammu bus stand

Jammu & Kashmir: Dog squad of Border Security Force (BSF) takes part in 'Swachhta Abhiyaan' (cleanliness drive) at Jammu bus stand. #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/Q8MjIPfaEf

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Modi to reach Ahmedabad at 6 pm, to visit Sabarmati Ashram, attend garba celebrations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive at the Ahmedabad airport around 6 pm and will be greeted by BJP workers at a function organised there by the party’s city unit, according to Gujarat BJP chief Jitu Vaghani.

He will then visit the Sabarmati Ashram to pay tributes to the Father of the Nation.

From there, he will go to the Sabarmati riverfront where he will declare the country open defecation-free (ODF) in the presence of over 20,000 village heads.​

Modi will also attend the state-level Navratri festival organised at the city’s GMDC ground. He will spend some time at the Garba ground before leaving for Delhi.

Tharoor on war over Gandhi’s legacy

Even today, BJP has leaders elected in 2019, who called Nathuram Godse a patriot, Congress MP tells CNN-News18.

Mahtama Gandhi tied nation in one thread: Naveen Patnaik

Paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said Gandhian values would remain relevant

forever and appealed to the people to work towards eradicating poverty, violence, injustice and inequality.

While addressing the National Integration Conclave in Bhubaneshwar, Patnaik said, ‘His (Mahatma Gandhi’s) mesmerising personality had tied the entire nation into one thread."

“We can solve many of our problems through adherence to the Mahatma’s non-violence principles,” he said, reiterating his demand for incorporating the word ‘Ahimsa’ (non-violence) in the Preamble of the Constitution.

Nepal unveils first statue of Mahatma Gandhi

India’s Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri unveiled Mahatma Gandhi’s first statue in the country to mark his 150th birth anniversary on Wednesday,reports PTI.

While unveiling the statue in a ceremony attended by former ministers, Parliament members, Indian Embassy staffers, business community, civil society leaders, professors, artists and journalists, Puri highlighted Gandhi’s influence on social, economic and political fields of Nepal.

Kiren Rijiju encourages ‘plogging’ through Fit India Plog Run

Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday said ‘Fit India Plog Run’ will  take forward Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Swacch Bharat Abhiyan’ and ‘Fit-India’ movement, reported ANI.

“It is good that with running, the country is also getting cleaned. Everyone should be fit…If everyone comes together, the whole country will become fit and clean… This plog in run will also help in accomplishing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of clean India,” he said, while flagging off the ‘Fit India Plog Run’ at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Delhi.

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and wrestler Bajrang Punia also took part in the plog run in the national capital.

The Central Government has organised ‘Fit India Plog Runs’ across the country today. The run is aimed at encouraging people to pick up litter while jogging.

Delhi: Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju flags off 'Fit India Plog run,'- a trash collecting activity while jogging, at Indira Gandhi stadium. Wrestler Bajrang Punia also present. #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/3acGwdOe3M

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Manohar Lal Khattar participates in Swachhta campaign in Gurugram

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Wednesday took part in a ‘Swachhta’ campaign in Gurugram and asked people to take a pledge to keep the country clean.

Khattar picked up a broom to promote cleanliness on the Mahatma’s 150th birth anniversary and said, “He taught us the best way to know oneself is to immerse oneself in the service of others”.

“Let us pledge to follow his footsteps on the path to a vibrant India…To realise the dreams of the Mahatma, we will have to take a pledge to keep our surroundings and our country clean in the same manner we like to keep our homes clean,” PTI reported him as saying.

Both Satyagrah and Swachhagrah needed: Om Birla

Mahatma Gandhi’s principles are always relevant and should be implemented for the betterment of the society, ANI reports Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla as saying.

“In today’s day and age, both Satyagrah and Swachhagrah is needed in society. His thoughts are immortal and they were always needed for the good of the society,” Birla told reporters after attending a function to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi held in the Parliament House Complex.

Opposition boycotts special sessions of Uttar Pradesh legislature

The Uttar Pradesh government kicked off simultaneous sessions of the state assembly and legislative council at 11 am on Wednesday. The special sessions will continue till Thursday night without a break  and will see leaders deliberate on 16 sustainable development goals to mark Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary. 

However, Opposition parties including Samajwadi Party, BSP, Congress and Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party have boycotted proceedings claiming the state government is just out to set a record.

“The BJP is not concerned about the people. The motive behind holding the special session is only to set a record,”   PTI reports Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP) chief Om Prakash Rajbhar as saying.

Mahatma Gandhi will remain immortal because of his principles: Jyotiraditya Scindia 

Congress general secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary, emphasised on the importance of truth, non-violence, Hindustan Times reported. Reportedly, he also said that Gandhi will remain immortal for generations to come.

“He will remain immortal because his principles and values will hold importance for generations to come,” Scindia was quoted by the report as saying. ”Mahatma Gandhi was not only Mahatma of the country, but he was Mahatma of the entire world. We all must follow his principles of non-violence, truth, justice, development, progress and upliftment of the poor,” Scindia added.

Ramchandra Guha criticises Amit Shah’s speech on NRC

Renowned historian Ramchandra Guha on Wednesday, which is the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, criticised Home Minister Amit Shah’s speech on the National Register of Citizens in West Bengal on Tuesday.

This was said on the eve of Gandhi Jayanti. The ghost of Godse stalks the corridors of power. https://t.co/qMZsqN1RPI

— Ramachandra Guha (@Ram_Guha) October 2, 2019

Narendra Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi in op-ed in The New York Times

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birth anniversary, describing him as the “best teacher” and “the guiding light” who continues to give courage to millions globally.

In an op-ed in The New York Times to mark the birth anniversary of Gandhi, Modi talks about the ideals epitomised by the apostle of peace who inspired such iconic leaders as Martin Luther King Jr and Nelson Mandela.

“The guiding light whose inspiration got Dr King to India was Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the Mahatma, the Great Soul. On Wednesday, we observe his 150th birth anniversary. Gandhi Ji, or Bapu, continues to give courage to millions globally,” Modi writes in the piece titled ‘Why India and the World Need Gandhi’.

Those trying to misuse Mahatma’s name will not succeed: Sonia Gandhi

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, addressing a gathering of Congress workers in Rajghat on Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary. slammed the BJP and said, “Quoting Gandhi is easy but it is tough to follow his path. Those who are trying to use his name but take are taking India astray from his teachings will not succeed.

“India has Gandhi’s principles in its foundation. Some people are trying to make RSS a symbol of India and sideline Gandhi. Those who are doing politics on mistruth will never understand Mahatma Gandhi. Those who want to have absolute power will never understand Gandhi.”

Visuals from Congress’ padayatra in Delhi

Congress leaders and workers are participating in a procession — Gandhi Sandesh Padyatra — on occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary on Wednesday.

‘BJP should follow Gandhi’s ideals’: Congress, Akhilesh Yadav slam RSS, BJP 

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, in a speech on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary on Wednesday, slammed the ruling BJP and the RSS for running a government on the principle of “by hook or by crook”. Addressing a gathering of Congress workers at the padayatra event on Gandhi Jayanti, she said, “In the last few years, a by-hook-or-by-crook’ government is being run and they are thinking they are very powerful. They are making efforts to propagate the RSS’ ideology instead of Gandhiji’s.”

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also slammed the BJP and said that the saffron party should follow the principle of truth, in accordance to Gandhiji’s teachings.Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav also criticised the ruling party and was quoted as saying by CNN-News18, “Those who have never followed Gandhi’s ideals, now want to adopt Gandhi.”

Sachin Tendulkar makes pitch for ‘swach, swasth’ India

Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar tweeted a video urging citizens to be aware of the environment and appealed for a “clean and healthy” India.

"The world has enough for everyone's need, but not enough for everyone's greed" quoted by Gandhiji signified his views about Mother Earth.
On his 150th birth anniversary it is only fitting that we come together & make India Swachh & Swasth.#SwachhataHiSeva #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/t8A70eXhaK

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) October 2, 2019

Narendra Modi to attend cultural Navrati event in Ahmedabad later today

The prime minister called on people on Twitter to experience the ‘vibrant culture of Gujarat’ during Navratri as he himself expected to join a garba event on Wednesday evening. 

“Modi will be attending the state-level Navratri festival organised at Ahmedabad’s GMDC ground. He will spend some time at the garba ground before leaving for Delhi,” state BJP president Jitu Vaghani said. 

In Ahmedabad, I will pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi at the Sabarmati Ashram.

I will also join a cultural Navratri event in the city. The vibrant culture of Gujarat is on full display during Navratri! If you have not experienced this festival in Gujarat, you must do so!

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2019

Narendra Modi to visit Ahmendabad today to attend Swachh Bharat Diwas
 

Narendra Modi is going to visit Ahmedabad to attend a special ‘Swachh Bharat Diwas’ programme on the banks of the Sabarmati river. During the programme, Modi is expected to acknowledge ’the commendable work of several Swachhagrahis who have worked round the clock to fulfill Gandhi Ji’s dream.’

From Ahmedabad, a city closely associated with beloved Bapu, we will showcase our efforts towards creating a Swachh Bharat and derive strength to continue working on the tenets shown by Gandhi Ji. We will be lauding those involved in plastic waste cleaning Shramdan. #Gandhi150

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2019

Priyanka Gandhi reaches Lucknow to see tree planted by Mahatma

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi has reached party leader Sheela Kaul’s house near Lucknow’s Butler Palace to see the banyan tree that was planted by Mahatma Gandhi back in 1936, reports India Today.

Amit Shah takes part in ‘Gandhi Sankalp Yatra’

Home minister Amit Shah takes part in ‘Gandhi Sankalp Yatra,’ in Shalimar Bagh in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Delhi: Home Minister Amit Shah takes part in 'Gandhi Sankalp Yatra,' in Shalimar Bagh. #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/KMS8G1oid4

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Ghost of Godse stalks the corridors of power, says Ram Chandra Guha

Historian Ram Chandra Guha, who also authored a biography Mahatma Gandhi, quoted Amit Shah’s controversial words on NRC in West Bengal yesterday, saying, “The ghost of Godse stalks the corridors of power”.

This was said on the eve of Gandhi Jayanti. The ghost of Godse stalks the corridors of power. https://t.co/qMZsqN1RPI

— Ramachandra Guha (@Ram_Guha) October 2, 2019

Rahul Gandhi leads Congress padyatra

Rahul Gandhi leads Congress’ padyatra from the Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee office to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Rahul Gandhi arrives at Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee office for the party's Gandhi Sandesh Yatra on #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/eb06iZ9v2S

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Ram Nath Kovind says Gandhi Jayanti is chance to ‘rededicate’ to values of truth, non-violence

President Ram Nath Kovind  paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on Wednesday and said, “Homage to Bapu on Gandhi Jayanti. The 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi is an occasion for all of us to rededicate ourselves to the values of truth, non-violence, harmony, morality and simplicity. His message remains relevant for all and  he continues to be our guiding light.

Leaders across political spectrum pay floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi in Parliament

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla, Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Ghulam Nabi Azad, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and others paid floral tributes before a portrait of Mahatma Gandhi in the Parliament on Wednesday.

The leaders also paid tribute to Lal Bahadur Shastri in Parliament on Wednesday.

Devendra Fadnavis participates in cleanliness drive in Mumbai

Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday took part in a clealiness drive in Mumbai’s Sion-Koliwada area on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis takes part in 'Swacchhta Abhiyaan (cleanliness drive),' at Sion-Koliwada in Mumbai. #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/NDWPpCWg39

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Mumbai: A clean-up drive was conducted at Versova beach. #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/Nbww5iAcap

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Mahatma Gandhi pioneered successive movements that changed history: Antonio Guterres

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birth anniversary and said that Gandhi’s philosophy is at the “core” of the work of the UN.

Mahatma Gandhi pioneered successive non-violent movements that changed history.

150 years since his birth, Gandhi’s philosophy is at the core of our work at the @UN. May his courage & conviction continue to inspire us on Wednesday’s International Day of Non-Violence & every day.

— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) October 2, 2019

Rajnath Singh unveils statue of Mahama Gandhi at Delhi Cantonment

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday unveiled a statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the Nagesh Garden in the Delhi Cantonment area, Hindustan Times reported.

Congress’ padayatra begins in Delhi

Kailash Satyarthi says Gandhi_ji_’s ideals are ‘powerful antidote’ for hatred, violence
 

Nobel laureate Kailash Satyarthi said that Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of “truth, non-violence, and peace” are needed in the current times, “more than ever”.

In today’s world when hatred, violence, individualism & extremism are becoming mantras of success, teachings of Gandhi Ji could be powerful antidotes. Truth, nonviolence & peace are needed now more than ever. #Gandhijayanti2019 #GandhiJayanti #GandhiAt150 pic.twitter.com/12hT7ukBdB

— Kailash Satyarthi (@k_satyarthi) October 2, 2019

Tourists visiting Sabarmati ashram can also visit Dandi memorial

People visiting Gujarat to attend the 2 October event at the Sabarmati Aashram on occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, will be taken to different places associated with the Father of the Nation, News18 reported. These include the memorial at Dandi, which is associated with the historic salt march led by him in 1930, and the Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar.

Pakistan’s Fawad Hussain calls Mahatma Gandhi ‘great leader of subcontinent’

Pakistan minister Fawad Hussain paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary and called him a “great leader of the subcontinent”, News18 reported.

Rajnath Singh takes pledge for cleanliness at Gandhi Jayanti event in Delhi

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh administered a cleanliness oath to people at an event organised in the Delhi Cantonment on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on Wednesday.

Gandhiji’s satyagraha brought the British to their knees: Amit Shah

BJP President Amit Shah, who inaugurated the ‘Gandhi Sankalp Yatra’ in Delhi on Wednesday, said, “Gandhi_ji_’s satyagraha movement brought the British to their knees. He showed the path of truth and non-violence to the world.”

BJP President Amit Shah during 'Gandhi Sankalp Yatra' in Delhi: Gandhi ji's satyagraha movement brought the British to their knees. He showed the path of truth and non violence to the world. #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/fX63hEvNIy

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Rahul Gandhi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi

Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi tweeted his tribute to Mahatma Gandhi saying that non-violence is the only way to defeat “oppression, bigotry, and hate”.

On his 150th Jayanti, my tributes to Mahatma Gandhi Ji, the “Father of the Nation”, who through his words & deeds, showed us that love for all living beings & non violence is the only way to defeat oppression, bigotry & hatred.

#Gandhi150 pic.twitter.com/ODRLL7o1os

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) October 2, 2019

Amit Shah flags off ‘Gandhi Sankalp Yatra’ in Delhi

BJP president Amit Shah on Wednesday flagged off the party’s main programme for the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary, the ‘Gandhi Sankalp Yatra’. Shah said, “BJP leaders and workers are going to march 150 kilometres to propagate Gandhi_ji_’s principles to all the people.”

Shah also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiatives against single-use plastic and the Swach Bharat Abhiyaan.

Narendra Modi accompanied by Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia at Vijay Ghat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who paid tribute to India’s second prime minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his 145th birth anniversary on Wednesday, was also accompanied by Delhi chief minister and deputy chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia.

#WATCH Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives to pay tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri at Vijay Ghat. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal & Deputy CM Manish Sisodia also present. (earlier visuals) #LalBahadurShastriJayanti pic.twitter.com/3J25RBihcw

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia pay tribute to Former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri at Vijay Ghat. #LalBahadurShastriJayanti pic.twitter.com/xDSVO4KCEK

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

PM to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, Lal Bahadur Shastri in Parliament

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who went to the Parliament after visiting Raj Ghat and Vijay Ghat on Wednesday morning, will pay floral tributes to both leaders in the Parliament. On Wednesday evening, he will fly to Ahmedabad and visit Sabarmati Ashram.

Narendra Modi to address the nation at 10 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to address the nation on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary on Wednesday at 10 am. Modi, who paid tribute to the ‘Father of the Nation’ at the Raj Ghat in Delhi early on Wednesday morning, will also visit the Sabarmati Aashram in Ahmedabad later in the day, NDTV reported.

JP Nadda, Prakash Javadekar to join Gandhi Sankalp Yatra in Delhi

BJP working president JP Nadda will join the BJP’s flagship programme on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the ‘Gandhi Sankalp Yatra’, at Chand Vatika near Khaira village while Union minister Prakash Javadekar will join in at Chuna Bhatti area of Kirti Nagar.

All Delhi MPs and senior BJP leaders will join this ‘yatra’ at different points across Delhi.

20,000 village heads to attend event at Sabarmati Ashram

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, will go to the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad.

At the riverfront, he will reportedly declare the country open defecation-free (ODF) in the presence of over 20,000 village heads. People associated with Gandhian institutions, high court judges, Padma awardees, students, educationists, and village-level sanitation workers have been invited for the function.

Priyanka Gandhi to participate in march in Lucknow

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress general secretary for eastern Uttar Pradesh, is likely to participate in the foot march or padayatra in Lucknow to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on Wednesday.

Amit Shah to flag off ‘Gandhi Sankalp Yatra’ today

BJP president Amit Shah will flag off the party’s nationwide “Gandhi Sankalp Yatra” on Wednesday, with its leaders, including Union ministers, scheduled to start the four-month drive from different parts of the country.

The party said Shah will address a meeting in Shalimar Bagh in the national capital before launching the yatra that aims to propagate ideals of the Father of the Nation, including cleanliness, simplicity, use of Khadi and non-violence.

Congress leaders to assemble at 9.30 for padayatra in Delhi

Senior Congress leaders and workers will assemble at 9.30 am at the Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee office at DDU Marg and will then walk towards Rajghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi with his favourite ‘bhajan’ ‘Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram’. 

Congress chief Sonia Gandhi will thereafter administer the oath to leaders and workers to redeem ‘Gandhi, Gandhism and Gandhi’s India’. Rahul Gandhi will join the ‘padayatra’ in Delhi.

Will continue working hard to realise Mahatma Gandhi’s dreams: Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted his tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of the revered freedom fighter’s 150th birth anniversary on Wednesday.

राष्ट्रपिता महात्मा गांधी को उनकी 150वीं जन्म-जयंती पर शत-शत नमन।

Tributes to beloved Bapu! On #Gandhi150, we express gratitude to Mahatma Gandhi for his everlasting contribution to humanity. We pledge to continue working hard to realise his dreams and create a better planet. pic.twitter.com/4y0HqBO762

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2019

KC Venugopal says Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy still relevant in ‘strife-torn’ world

Congress general secretary KC Venugopal said, “In a strife-torn world, Gandhi_ji_ and his philosophy is more relevant than ever today.” He said as the ideological anchor of the country, “Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy of non-violence, co-existence, compassion, truth, environmental sustainability, and economic self-reliance have not only shaped our nationhood, but those of many across the world”.

Venugopal said that though it took them more than 50 years, some political parties and disparate ideological proponents seem to have realized the importance of Gandhi, his philosophies and teachings today.

Gandhi Jayanti celebrations turning into ‘one-upmanship’ game between BJP and Congress

The celebrations are turning out to be a game of “one-upmanship” between the Congress and the BJP as both are organising foot marches across the country in their bid to “cash in” on his legacy, PTI reported.

While Congress chief Sonia Gandhi will reportedly administer the oath to leaders and workers to “redeem” ‘Gandhi, Gandhism and Gandhi’s India’, the BJP’s Gandhi Sankalp Yatra across the country will be flagged off by Home Minister Amit Shah.

Congress to organise rallies today to ‘redeem’ Gandhism

The Congress will celebrate Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary on Wednesday by organising ‘padayatras’ across the country, with party leader Rahul Gandhi joining the foot march in the national capital. The party has planned a week-long program that will mark the culmination of the year-long celebrations commemorating Gandhi’s memory and it will re-emphasize his values.

The programme will be undertaken by the AICC in Delhi and by the PCCs in their state capitals. It will be followed by district and block Congress committees across the country. In Delhi, the party will be out in full force on Wednesday guided by the Gandhian ideals to take on this government that they term “oppressive”.

Narendra Modi to declare India ‘open defecation free’ today

 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Sabarmati Ashram here on Wednesday, on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, and later declare the country open defecation-free. Several events will be organised in the city and other parts of Gujarat as part of the sesquicentennial year of Gandhi’s birth anniversary.

Lal Bahadur Shastri’s son pays tribute to father at Vijay Ghat

Anil Shastri, son of the second prime minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on Wednesday morning paid tribute to his father at Vijay Ghat. 

Delhi: Anil Shastri, son of Former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, pays tribute to his father at Vijay Ghat. #LalBahadurShastriJayanti pic.twitter.com/Woct0S03zI

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Leaders pay tribute to Lal Bahadur Shastri on occasion of jayanti

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, and former prime minister Manmohan Singh also paid tribute to Lal Bahadur Shastri, the second prime minister of India.

Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tribute to Former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri at Vijay Ghat. #LalBahadurShastriJayanti pic.twitter.com/YoI07Sbwjp

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Delhi: Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi and Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh pay tribute to Former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri at Vijay Ghat. #LalBahadurShastriJayanti pic.twitter.com/yBTB000Q6O

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Sonia Gandhi, Manmohan Singh, JP Nadda visit Raj Ghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, and BJP working president JP Nadda, early on Wednesday morning, paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at the Raj Ghat in Delhi on the occasion of the national leader’s 150th birth anniversary.

Delhi: Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi and BJP Working President JP Nadda pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/b4l0ROzl8a

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019

Narendra Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on 150th birth anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary on Wednesday, paid tribute to the ‘Father of the Nation’ at Raj Ghat in Delhi. 

Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat. #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/cjhtAVgaZt

— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019