In the domain of healthcare too, Acharya ji’s contributions were transformative. He was associated with several efforts, especially in underserved areas. His approach to healthcare was holistic, integrating physical well-being with spiritual wellness, thereby addressing the needs of the person as a whole.I would especially urge the coming generations to study extensively about Acharya Vidyasagar’s commitment to nation building. He would always urge people to rise above any partisan considerations and instead focus on national interest. He was one of the strongest votaries of voting because he saw it as an expression of participation in democratic processes. He advocated healthy as well as clean politics, even saying that policy making has to be about people’s welfare, not self-interest — ‘Lokneeti is about loksangrah not lobhsangrah’.He believed that a strong nation is built on the foundation of its citizens’ commitment to their duties — towards themselves, their families, society and the country. He encouraged individuals to cultivate virtues such as honesty, integrity and self-reliance, which he saw as essential for the creation of a just, compassionate and thriving society. This emphasis on duties is of great importance as we work towards building a Viksit Bharat.In an era where environmental degradation is rampant world over, Acharya ji called for a way of life, which would minimise the harm being inflicted on nature. Likewise, he saw a paramount role for agriculture in our economy, also stressing on making agriculture modern as well as sustainable. His work towards reforming jail inmates was also noteworthy.The beauty of our land is that for thousands of years, our soil has produced greats who have shown light to others and made our society better. Acharya Vidyasagar stands as a towering figure in this illustrious lineage of saints and social reformers. Whatever he did, he did not just for the present but also the future. In November last year, I had the opportunity to visit the Chandragiri Jain Mandir in Dongargarh in Chhattisgarh. Little did I know that this visit would be my last meeting with Acharya ji. Those moments were very special. He spoke to me for a long time, blessing me for my efforts in serving the nation. He expressed joy on the direction our nation is taking and the respect India is getting on the world stage. He was filled with enthusiasm while talking about the work he was doing. Then and always, his gentle gaze and serene smile were enough to instil a sense of peace and purpose. His blessings felt like a soothing balm on the soul, a reminder of the divine presence within and around us.Acharya Vidyasagar’s void is deeply felt by all who knew him and were touched by his teachings and his life. However, he lives on in the hearts and minds of those he inspired. In honouring his memory, we commit to embodying the values he espoused. In this way, we not only pay tribute to a great soul but also take forward his mission for our country and people.Narendra ModiPrime Minister of India
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