Kolkata: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extolled the pivotal role played by Visva Bharati in India’s freedom movement and furthering the cause of universal brotherhood.
Addressing the centenary celebrations of the university founded by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, Modi said the literary legend’s vision is also the essence of the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative launched by his government for making India self-reliant, news agency PTI reported.
The PM said Tagore and the institution he founded not only strengthened the spirit of nationalism, but also promoted the inclusive spirit of “vishva bandhutva” (universal friendship). “Visva Bharati is a venerable source of constant energy to the country,” he added.
Praising the institution for its remarkable achievements in varied fields like art and literature, and science and innovation, the PM urged its students to reach out to artisans in the region to explore ways to find national and international markets for their products.
“That will make them self-reliant. Atmanirbhar Bharat is the initiative for India’s prosperity which will aid in global prosperity,” he said.
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