PM Modi joins centenary celebrations of Bharat Sevashram Sangha via video conference

Welcoming the Prime Minister on the occasion, the General Secretary of Bharat Sevashram Sangha, Sreemat Swami Biswatmananda ji Maharaj, spoke of the glorious spiritual and service traditions of India.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister recalled the time that he had worked with the Bharat Sevashram Sangha in Gujarat.

He conveyed his best wishes on the occasion to the Bharat Sevashram Sangha, which he said, combined the virtues of service (seva) and labour (shram).

PM Modi said the work of the organization in the North-East, and during the time of disasters, has been especially praiseworthy.

The Prime Minister explained the significance of serving the poor and the needy, as described in the scriptures.

He said Swami Pranavananda, the founder of Bharat Sevashram Sangha, had spoken of social justice a century ago, and established the Sangh for this purpose.

The Prime Minister said a myth has been sought to be created in recent times that “service” and “spirituality” are two different things.

He said the Bharat Sevashram Sangha has been able to dispel this myth, through its work.

PM Modi said that societal development through 'Bhakti', 'Shakti' and 'Jan Shakti' was achieved by Swami Pranavananda.

The Prime Minister urged the Bharat Sevashram Sangha to work towards “Swachhagrah” – or cleanliness, especially in North-Eastern India.

He spoke of the Government’s resolve to develop the North-East, and added that focus on connectivity and infrastructure could help develop the North-East to become a gateway to South-East Asia.

Sreemant Swami Ambareeshananda ji Maharaj, who had worked with the Prime Minister in Gujarat, and who was mentioned by the Prime Minister during his address, proposed the vote of thanks on the occasion.