PM Modi Invokes 'Ram Rajya' Ideals on Dussehra, Stresses Public Welfare and Self-Reliance: Key Quotes

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi invoked the principles of 'Ram Rajya' on Tuesday, making a strong pitch for public welfare, social justice, and self-reliance during his address on Vijayadashami.

Speaking at the Dussehra festivities held at the DDA Utsav Ground in East Delhi's IP Extension and participating in the symbolic Ravan Dahan rituals, PM Modi said the true purpose of authority is to serve citizens rather than rule over them. He emphasised that safeguarding the welfare of the poor and underprivileged sections must remain paramount.

The Prime Minister also reflected on the ideals demonstrated by Lord Ram, calling on the nation to craft solutions using its own resources to build a developed and self-reliant India. He noted that Vijayadashami represents the enduring triumph of good over evil.

Key quotes

• "Ramrajya signifies a system of governance free from discrimination—a realm where justice prevails, and everyone is afforded equal opportunities. In such a system, the purpose of authority is not merely to rule, but to ensure the welfare of the people... Serving the poor and the marginalised must remain our highest priority."
• "This country, its culture, and its ancestors have worshipped Lord Shri Ram for thousands of years. This faith is not only because Shri Ram defeated the demon king Ravana. This faith is also because Lord Ram gave us such ideals which are incomparable in the history of humanity."
• "Lord Shri Ram faced so many difficulties in his life, but he never left the path of truth and policy."
• "The life of Lord Ram offers us a profound lesson: no matter how great the crisis or how daunting the challenge, we must not rely on others. We must recognise our own potential, trust in our own resources, transform our resolve into strength, and forge solutions through our own hard work. Today, we too must move forward, guided by this very mantra."
• "We have set before us the goals of a Viksit Bharat and an Atmanirbhar Bharat. Our goal is to make India fully self-reliant as that is how a country can progress."
• "Vijayadashami celebrates victory of good over evil. Government's priority is welfare of poor and deprived sections of society. Purpose of power is not to rule, but to ensure public welfare; this is the ideal of Lord Shri Ram."