Underlining that decisions have to be taken with great courage, Modi made it clear that he would not be discouraged by criticism. “We welcome criticism. The more the criticism, the better it is... It is for the welfare of the country...In a democracy, criticism gives strength and it will guide us.”
Invoking Mahatma Gandhi repeatedly, the Prime Minister stressed the need for converting development as a mass movement like the Father of the Nation had done with the freedom struggle.
He also had some assuring words for the states as he said, “We don't believe in big brother attitude (towards states). We believe in Cooperative Federalism.”
While talking about “musalman bhai”, Modi said his government would have a “focussed activity” to change their lives as they cannot be left behind in development.
He took a dig at those questioning how the agenda outlined in the President's address would be implemented, saying it was “natural” for people to be apprehensive after “an atmosphere of despair” for so many years.
The Prime Minister said he had faced similar questions and apprehensions even when he first became the Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2001 but he had shown them that it can be done.
“We will leave no stone unturned in implementing the roadmap outlined by the President,” he said, underlining that the President's address has a lot of sanctity.
Referring to the big mandate his party got in the elections, he said the government is the “custodian of people's hope” and has the responsibility to deliver.
“Chhoti moti nok jhonk to hoti hi hai (small exchanges do occur in Parliament between government and opposition),” he said but added that he will carry all parties along in taking the country forward.
