Describing May 11 as a historic date in India’s journey, the Prime Minister recalled that the country conducted the first three nuclear tests at Pokhran on this day in 1998. Two additional tests were carried out on May 13 under the leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He said the successful tests demonstrated both India’s scientific capability and its political determination at a time when major global powers attempted to isolate the country through sanctions and diplomatic pressure.
Prime Minister Modi stated that despite intense international opposition and economic restrictions, India remained steadfast because the principle of “nation first” guided the government’s decisions. He described the nuclear tests as a defining moment in modern Indian history, proving that no external force could weaken the country’s sovereign right to make decisions in its national interest.
Linking this scientific achievement to India’s civilizational traditions, the Prime Minister noted that the mission was named “Operation Shakti,” reflecting the enduring cultural belief in the union of Shiva and Shakti. He said this symbolism represented the harmonious relationship between spiritual consciousness and national power.
The Prime Minister also referred to India’s successful lunar mission, highlighting that the landing site of Chandrayaan was named “Shiv Shakti Point.” He said the designation embodied the country’s ability to merge faith, scientific progress and national aspiration, demonstrating that India’s ancient values continue to inspire its most advanced technological accomplishments.
During his address, Prime Minister Modi reflected on the long history of Somnath Temple, which was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt over centuries. He emphasized that while physical structures may be demolished, India’s civilizational spirit remains indestructible. According to him, Somnath stands as a timeless symbol of resilience, faith and national continuity.
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the rulers, saints, scholars and national leaders who protected and restored India’s cultural heritage. He specifically remembered Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Rajendra Prasad for their historic contributions to the reconstruction and preservation of the Somnath Temple.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Modi presented Somnath, Operation Shakti and India’s space achievements as interconnected symbols of a nation rooted in spiritual strength and empowered by scientific excellence. His remarks underscored the message that India’s cultural heritage and technological progress together form the foundation of its growing confidence and global stature.
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