Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, in his first public address after assuming office, underscored the idea that the true strength of a nation lies not merely in its military or political might but in the moral fibre, unity, and collective character of its people. Speaking at an event held for the release of the fourth and fifth volumes of selected speeches of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Vice President observed that India’s growth story has been firmly rooted in values that go beyond material progress. The compilations, titled ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas’, published by the Publications Division of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, served as the backdrop for his remarks on nation-building.
Emphasising the guiding philosophy of Rashtra Pratham or “India First,” Radhakrishnan explained that the country’s development journey is defined by a collective national spirit. He noted that this principle is increasingly visible in the mindset and daily conduct of citizens, which he considered a reassuring sign of India’s future. According to him, while infrastructure, technology, and economic achievements are vital, they cannot sustain a nation unless they are reinforced by strong ethical values, social cohesion, and shared purpose among people. Long-term stability, he said, flows from character and unity more than from displays of hard power.
In his address, the Vice President also highlighted the remarkable progress India has made under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, especially in areas that contribute to self-reliance. From advancements in defence and space technology to the growth of electronics manufacturing and other critical sectors, he underlined that India is steadily moving towards greater independence and resilience. He added that developmental achievements are not confined to large-scale projects but are deeply tied to improvements in social well-being and equitable growth.
Radhakrishnan further elaborated on how efforts in education, clean drinking water access, sanitation, affordable healthcare, poverty reduction, renewable energy, and climate action have acted as powerful tools of social transformation. He drew attention to the symbolic yet deeply meaningful example of building toilets in rural households, noting that beyond health benefits, sanitation facilities bring dignity and mental assurance, particularly to women and vulnerable groups. As he put it, “When a toilet is built in a household, it gives dignity to the ‘Man,’ i.e., the Mind of the household.”
Reflecting on the larger picture, the Vice President remarked that these initiatives have touched the lives of 1.4 billion Indians and helped reshape communities across the nation. Citing official data, he pointed out that more than 25 crore citizens have been lifted out of poverty over the last eleven years due to sustained, focused development measures. Such achievements, he argued, demonstrate how governance rooted in values, inclusivity, and purpose can transform societies and create a foundation for lasting national strength.
