Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged BJP workers to give greater attention to social reform and positive change rather than focusing on vote-bank politics.
Modi made the remarks during a virtual interaction with participants of the ongoing Seva Yatra, a motorcycle rally travelling between Varanasi and Vadnagar.
Modi Invokes Mahatma Gandhi
During the interaction, Modi referred to Mahatma Gandhi, saying that Gandhi combined his role in India’s freedom movement with efforts to address social problems.
Modi told political workers that they should similarly continue working for social reform and positive change. He also said that those engaged in public service should have their contributions respected.
Focus on Rural Development and Women
Modi also spoke about changes he said had taken place over the past 12 years, including a narrowing of the gap between urban and rural areas and improvements in rural infrastructure.
He also highlighted increased economic self-reliance among women as an area of change.
Seva Yatra Marks Public-Service Campaign
The two motorcycle rallies began on September 17, Modi’s birthday, with one travelling from Vadnagar to Varanasi and another in the opposite direction. They are scheduled to conclude on October 7.
The rallies are linked to activities involving public interaction, youth participation, social welfare and community service. Participants have also been meeting beneficiaries of government welfare programmes and people in local communities.
Modi also referred to seven principles associated with BJP ideologue Deendayal Upadhyaya: service, balance, self-restraint, coordination, positivity, sensitivity and dialogue.
