Unity in diversity is strength of our nation: PM Modi

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said "unity in diversity is the strength of our nation and this is what keeps inspiring us", as he addressed a NCC rally in New Delhi on Wednesday.

PM Modi expressed his joy over seeing girl cadets in large numbers. He said the NCC and such camps are the best examples of unity in diversity. Terming such gatherings as a mini India, he said it helps people expand their horizons. 

"The parade (on 26th) was dedicated to ‘Nari Shakti’. I am standing in front of a mini-India, a miniature of India's future," Modi said as he encouraged more girls to join the NCC. "Our country is full of diversities, and unity in diversity is the beauty and strength of our nation. And this is what keeps inspiring us," PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister also spoke about his stint at NCC. "I was also an NCC cadet but was never selected to come to Delhi," he said. "We are blessed that we a youthful nation. Our dreams are young, our energy is young," the Prime Minister said.

Modi spoke to the cadets about a number of issues, including yoga. Recalling that June 21 has been declared as the International Day of Yoga, he said it was matter of pride, especially for those who understand and practice it.

He said that yoga is not limited to borders, age or language. "It is a special responsibility of India, where yog was born, to introduce the world to right yog," he said.

Modi said, "I urge all NCC cadets across the country to start planning from now. On June 21, everyone at the same time should do yog across the country. It should be in such high numbers that all world records are broken. And if we start now, we will be able to spread a strong message through these cadets and that too an inspiring message."

He also asked the cadets to take up the cause of cleanliness, saying it was one of the ways to serve the country.

During the NCC rally, which culminates the Republic Day NCC Camp, Modi referred to an tableau on 'Swachh Bharat' mission. He said it was neither a programme nor an "event."

"It is an effort to change the mindset of the people. Until we are able to change the mindset of the 125 crore Indians, the work has to continue," he said, adding that cleanliness is one of the best ways to serve "Mother India."