New Delhi: On the birth anniversary of Subhas Chandra Bose, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to reflect on the enduring inspiration drawn from Netaji’s life and legacy. In a series of poignant posts on X, PM Modi highlighted personal encounters and key government initiatives honoring the freedom fighter’s contributions.
Recalling the launch of the ‘E-Gram VishwaGram Yojana’ on January 23, 2009, PM Modi noted how Netaji’s ideals have always motivated him. ‘This unique initiative revolutionized Gujarat’s IT landscape, starting from Haripura—a place of profound significance in Netaji’s journey,’ he wrote. He vividly described the warm welcome by Haripura’s residents and leading a procession on the same road once tread by Bose.
PM Modi reminisced about a grand 2012 event in Ahmedabad celebrating Azad Hind Fauj Day, attended by luminaries inspired by Netaji, including former Lok Sabha Speaker P.A. Sangma. He subtly critiqued past regimes for sidelining Bose’s monumental role, saying those who ruled for decades conveniently overlooked him. In contrast, his government has popularized Netaji’s ideals at every opportunity, including declassifying crucial files and documents.
The year 2018 stood out for two historic milestones. At the Red Fort, PM Modi commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Azad Hind Government’s formation by hoisting the tricolor. A memorable conversation with INA veteran Lalti Ram added to the occasion’s gravity. In the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, at what was once Port Blair—renamed Sri Vijaya Puram—the tricolor was unfurled to mark 75 years since Netaji did the same. Three key islands were renamed, with Ross Island becoming Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island.
PM Modi pointed to the Kranti Mandir Museum at the Red Fort, housing artifacts like the cap worn by Netaji and INA memorabilia, preserving his legacy for posterity. During his 2021 Kolkata visit, coinciding with Parakram Diwas—declared in Netaji’s honor—he toured Netaji Bhawan, the starting point of Bose’s daring escape. The grand statue at India Gate in the heart of the capital exemplifies efforts to dismantle colonial mindsets and pay tribute, inspiring future generations.