New York: In op-ed piece penned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the New York Times on Wednesday, he proposed what he called the 'Einstein Challenge' to ensure Gandhi's ideals are remembered by future generations.
In the article, Modi described Gandhi as the "best teacher" and "the guiding light" who continues to give courage to millions globally and uniting those who believe in humanity.
"As a tribute to Gandhi, I propose what I call the Einstein Challenge. We know Albert Einstein's famous words on Gandhi: 'Generations to come will scarce believe that such a one as this ever in flesh and blood walked upon this earth'," Modi wrote in the op-ed titled 'Why India and the World Need Gandhi'.
"How do we ensure the ideals of Gandhi are remembered by future generations? I invite thinkers, entrepreneurs and tech leaders to be at the forefront of spreading Gandhi's ideas through innovation."
"Let us work shoulder to shoulder to make our world prosperous and free from hate, violence and suffering. That is when we will fulfil Mahatma Gandhi's dream, summed up in his favourite hymn, 'Vaishnava Jana To', which said that a true human is one who feels the pain of others, removes misery and is never arrogant," Modi said.
The prime minister said that for Gandhi, independence was not absence of external rule, but a deep link between political independence and personal empowerment.
"In Gandhi, we have the best teacher to guide us. From uniting those who believe in humanity to furthering sustainable development and ensuring economic self-reliance, Gandhi offers solutions to every problem," he wrote.
The prime minister also talked about the ideals epitomised by the apostle of peace who inspired such iconic leaders as Martin Luther King Jr and Nelson Mandela.
The prime minister also lauded Gandhi for combining ordinary objects like charkha, spinning wheel, and khadi with "mass politics" and asserts that he was never tempted by power.
Modi also explained how his government was trying to fulfil Gandhi's dreams and is committed to do even more with the world and for the world.
"We in India are doing our bit. India is among the fastest when it comes to eliminating poverty. Our sanitation efforts have drawn global attention. India is also taking the lead in harnessing renewable resources through efforts like the International Solar Alliance, which has brought together several nations to leverage solar energy for a sustainable future."
(With inputs from PTI)
