Sikhs are a strong link for India’s ties abroad: PM

NEW DELHI – Hailing Sikh community while addressing a delegation at his official residence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the community has been instrumental in India’s strong links with other countries.
The PM said that Sikh tradition is truly the vibrant tradition of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.
“Our gurus inspired the people, sanctified this land from their feet… The feet of Sikh sants from time to time keep falling in the prime minister’s residence here. I keep getting the good fortune of their company. Sikh tradition is truly the vibrant tradition of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat,” he said.
Addressing a gathering which consisted of members of the Sikh community, Modi mentioned a series of measures taken by the government for the Sikh community.
“Kartarpur Sahib Corridor was also built during this period. Today lakhs of devotees are getting the privilege of going there… From increasing cleanliness around gurdwaras to connecting them with better infrastructure, the country is making every effort today,” he said.
Hailing the contributions of Sikh gurus, the PM said that Guru Nanak Dev ji had awakened the consciousness of the entire nation, brought the entire nation out of darkness and showed the path of light.
He said that he has always had relations and connect with the community. Going to gurudwaras, staying at the homes of Sikh families, these have been a part of my life, he said.
Modi said that earlier it was being said that from where will India get the vaccine for such a large population of India and how will the lives of the people be saved.
But today India has emerged as the largest vaccine manufacturer, he said.
Visuals of the event showed the Prime Minister sporting a red turban while he greeted the delegation of Sikh leaders.
The Prime Minister hosted delegation of prominent leaders of the Sikh community a number of times in the recent months.
The PM hosted a similar Sikh delegation last month consisting of eminent intellectuals from across the country at his official residence in which the Sikh leaders thanked him for the steps he took for the community.