On the second anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack, that left 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel dead, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said “no Indian can forget this day,” while paying homage to the martyrs, whose ‘bravery continues to inspire generations,’ reported news agency ANI.
The prime minister remembered the sacrifice of Pulwama martyrs while speaking at a programme in Chennai, where he inaugurated a slew of projects.
“No Indian can forget this day. Two years ago, the Pulwama attack happened. We pay homage to all the martyrs we lost in that attack. We are proud of our security forces. Their bravery will continue to inspire generations.”Narendra Modi, Prime Minister.
Prior to his speech, PM Modi had handed over the Arjun Main Battle Tank (MK-1A) to Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane, and inaugurated Phase-I extension of the Chennai Metro Rail, which has been built at a cost of Rs 3,770 crore.
He also commissioned passenger services from Washermenpet to Wimco Nagar and laid the foundation stone for the modernisation of the Grand Anicut Canal System as well as the Discovery of IIT Madras.
No Indian Fisherman in Sri Lankan Custody: PM
The prime minister, who’s been facing protests over his government’s farm laws in some states across India, also praised the farmers of Tamil Nadu for their record produce and conservation of water.
“I want to appreciate the farmers of Tamil Nadu for record food grain production and good use of water resources. We have to do whatever we can do to conserve water. Always remember the mantra of ‘per drop, more crop.’”Narendra Modi, Prime Minister.
He also announced that the Centre has accepted the long-standing demand of Devendrakula Vellalar community to be known by their heritage name and not by the 6-7 names listed in Schedule to the Constitution.
Further, the prime minister said that his government has regularly taken up the cause of Tamil rights with neighbouring Sri Lanka and that there are no fishermen in Sri Lankan custody.
“Currently, there are no Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan custody. Similarly, 313 boats have also been released and we are working on the release of the rest of the boats,” he said.
PM Has Preserved Amma’s Legacy: OPS
Prior to his speech, PM Modi was felicitated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
Praising PM Modi, O Panneerselvam said that the Prime Minister had done a lot to preserve the late J Jayalalithaa’s legacy.
“The prime minister has done much to ensure that the memory and legacy of Amma is preserved in Tamil Nadu. He has been steadfast in his support for efforts of Amma’s govt here.”O Panneerselvam, Deputy Chief Minister.
The PM, who is on a whirlwind tour of Tamil Nadu, is slated to visit Kerala later in the day.
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