On the occasion of Ram Navami, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke at a conclave in New Delhi, emphasizing the importance of Lord Ram as India's identity and not merely an embodiment in stone or wood. He also discussed the government's efforts in building hospitals, schools, and industries as well as temples.

 

Mr. Singh noted that when it came to the construction of Ram temple, a lot of people had started giving their thoughts on it. He said, “Some people had suggested that a hospital be built at the site, while others said a school can be built. Some even suggested that an industry could be set up. These were the people who do not understand Lord Ram or have not embraced him.” The Minister asserted that Lord Ram is not merely an embodiment in stone, wood or soil, but the centre of our culture and faith. He said, “Lord Ram is our identity as well as that of our country. We will build hospitals, schools and industry. And, we will build temples also.”

 

Mr. Singh also talked about the Centre's efforts in bringing the northeast closer to Delhi, leading to "unprecedented peace" in the region and the removal of AFSPA from various parts of the area. He said, “Today, there is 'unprecedented peace' in the northeast due to which AFSPA has been removed from various parts of the region.”

 

The Minister also added that the 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' is not merely a slogan but has become a people's movement. He said, “As the defence minister, I can say that today women, by becoming a part of the armed forces, are further strengthening it. They are flying fighter jets as fighter pilots. Recently, I approved the induction of women in artillery. With the participation of women in armed forces, we are moving ahead together in the direction of women empowerment and in strengthening of the armed forces.”

 

Mr. Singh concluded that in today's New India, there is “no room for an elitist mindset”. He said, “Lord Ram is not merely an embodiment in stone, wood or soil, he is the centre of our culture and faith. Lord Ram is our identity as well as that of our country.” With his words, Mr. Singh reiterated the importance of Lord Ram in India's culture and faith and the government's commitment to building temples, hospitals, schools, and industries. Reference source: TH

 

UPSC Main Exam Question

 

Analyze the importance of Lord Ram in India's culture and faith.

 

Image: Rajnath Singh/Twitter