Prime minister Narendra Modi reached out to Kashmir with a roadmap for healing touch -- saying "ekta" (unity) and "mamata" (compassion) could be the "twin mantras" for the state. Addressing the nation through the 23rd installment of his monthly special-Mann Ki Baat, Modi also hailed the coaching skills of Pullela Gopichand and lauded all political parties for coming together to pass the GST Bill.
Here are the top quotes from the PM's radio speech.
» "From the interactions I had with all parties on Kashmir, one thing emerged, which can be put in simple words as Ekta and Mamata. These two things were the basic mantra. It is the view of all of us, of 125 crore people from a pradhan of a village to the prime minister, that if any life is lost in Kashmir, whether of any youth or any securityman, that loss is ours".
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» "In August 2016, parties having intense political rivalry, parties which do not let go any chance to attack each other, all came together to pass the GST Bill. The credit goes to all the parties. This is an example of how big a task can be accomplished when all parties work together in one direction.”
» "For me, 5th September is not only Teacher's Day, but a day of learning as well. I salute Gopichand. He has shown what it is like to be a good teacher. I consider him a better teacher today than a sportsman," said Modi.
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» "It cannot be denied that our performance (in Rio) was not up to the expectation. In some cases, Indian players could not even perform to the level they do in games at home and in the medals tally, we had only two. Indian participants in some events like hockey, shooting and boxing performed well, even better than the past. But my countrymen, we need to do a lot more. If we continue doing what we have been doing, then perhaps we will again be disappointed."
» “Tomorrow (Monday) August 29 is legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand's birth anniversary which is celebrated as national sports day. I pay him tributes and want you all to remember his contribution. Major Dhyan Chad was a live example of true sportsman spirit and patriotism. He helped India in securing gold medals in Hockey in three Olympic games in 1928, 1932 and 1936"
The PM encouraged students to share pictures and experiences with their teachers on the Narendra Modi app.
(With agency inputs)