Vajpayee lived for the values, ideals that Ram temple embodies: Yogi

Addressing the Atal Geet Ganga event organised on the eve of Vajpayee’s birth anniversary, Adityanath said he laid the foundation for schemes benefiting the poor, significant infrastructure projects, and got global recognition and honour for India.

“It is also a wonderful coincidence that this year marks the centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s birth. He was born on December 25, 1924. Throughout the year, there will be various programmes, and on December 25, 2024, we will have the opportunity to witness a grand celebration,” he said.

The CM also honoured several personalities on the occasion. He said that Vajpayee proved during his tenure as the prime minister how stable governments can be beneficial to the country. “The tradition continues today. He explained that even while working for a long time, one can serve the people with values, ideals, and dedication. Within India, they can implement large-scale programmes tailored to the development of the country. Whether on domestic or international fronts, Vajpayee showed the way”, he added.

“Vajpayee once said ‘My Lord, never grant me such heights that I cannot embrace others’. Look at his compassion. We often talk about big things, but if empathy is not there for the poor, common people, youth, and women, then we don’t have the right to call ourselves human. The former PM gave a new direction to Indian politics,” said Adityanath.

He further said Vajpayee built upon the foundation for Indian politics laid by leaders like Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee and Deendayal Upadhyaya. “Currently, under PM Modi’s leadership, we all are witnessing a new manifestation of Indian politics based on that foundation,” he claimed.

The ‘Atal Geet Ganga’ marked the beginning of a year-long programme, he said, adding that during the centenary celebrations, the state government will organise grand events at the gram panchayat, block, district, commissionerate, college, university, assembly, and state levels.

“The government aims to encourage hidden talent by providing a platform for individuals to come forward… Efforts will be made to bring the values of great personalities like Atal ji back into Indian politics,” he said.