Modi says India’s commitment to peace and non-violence is in our DNA

A day after Japan pledged to invest $35 billion in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday reiterated India’s stand on not signing the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Modi said India’s commitment to peace and non-violence is in the “DNA of Indian society” which is far beyond any international treaty.

While addressing students and dignitaries at the University of the Sacred Heart in Tokyo, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “India is a land of Lord Buddha. Buddha lived for peace and suffered for peace and that message is prevalent in India.”

Modi said that India refused to sign the NPT because it considered it as flawed.

“DNA of Indian society and this is above any international treaty” Modi said, adding, “In international affairs, there are some processes. But above them is the commitment of the society…above the treaties”.

Referring India’s freedom movement under Mahatma Gandhi, Modi said India from beginning is committed to non-violence. He said India over thousands years believes in ‘vasudhaiva kutumbakam’ (the whole world is one family).

“When we consider the whole world as one family, how can we even think about doing anything that would harm or hurt anyone?”

Carefully avoiding China’s “expansionist” move, Modi said, “India is a democratic country. Similarly, Japan is also a democratic country. If  India and Japan together think about peace and positive things, we can make the world realise the strength of a democracy. We should focus on progress and development instead of paying attention to others. If we pay attention to our situation, our condition will be better.”

“Imagine, there is darkness in a room. Someone goes inside with a broom to remove the darkness but he will fail. Another person goes inside with a sword to remove darkness. He will also fail. Another person goes with blanket to remove darkness, but he will also fail. Then a wise man goes with a small lamp, the darkness will be chased away. A lamp peace, prosperity and democracy will never be scared of darkness,” he added.

PM Modi also delivers speech at the inauguration of TCS Japan Technology and Cultural Academy

“My wishes are with you, I truly believe you all will become great ambassadors,” Modi said.

“I can tell you that even if you stay for 6 months and want to enjoy a new dish daily you will not have to repeat a dish. I have a suggestion also — if you stay in India do not remain in TCS rooms daily. Take time out and travel across India,” he said.

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