Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Claiming that no previous government had given Dalit icon BR Ambedkar so much respect as his, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today asked party lawmakers to spread his vision and principles among the masses.
In his address to the Parliamentary party, Prime Minister Modi also spoke about the upcoming birth anniversaries of BJP stalwart Atal Bihari Vajpayee and spiritual leader Swami Viveknanda, asking members to start projects which they deem fit on the former prime minister's birthday on December 25.
PM Modi said his government had given "maxium respect" to Dr Ambedkar as he spoke about the Centre organising a number of events related to BR Ambedkar, including the announcement of November 26 as the 'Constitution Day' and the launch of special coins to honour him.
Party sources said he told the lawmakers that Dr Ambedkar was so far projected as a Dalit icon and for his role in the making of the Constitution, but his government had worked to highlight various other facets of him, including his economic vision.
Different ministries have come out with literature to highlight his contributions.
He also spoke about the year-long celebrations being organised by the government marking his 125th birth anniversary.
Noting that the birth anniversary of Vivekananda, whom the prime minister has often referred to as an inspiration to him, is observed as the 'National Youth Day', he asked the party leaders to "work overtime" to spread his vision and connect youths with BJP, sources said.
PM Modi also asked the lawmakers to start some welfare project in their constituency on Mr Vajpayee's birth anniversary.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu also addressed the lawmakers and asked them to be present in Parliament in full force for the passage of pending bills.
Sources said he spoke about the legislative agenda of both the Houses this week, which includes the GST Bill listed in Rajya Sabha. He also said that three bills were passed last week.