Mohan Yadav Connects Gandhi's Swadeshi Ideals With India's Self-Reliance Push

Yadav made the remarks in Bhopal while paying floral tribute to Gandhi on his birth anniversary. He also paid homage to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri at his statue.

The Chief Minister said the ideas of Swadeshi and self-reliance remain relevant in contemporary India, pointing to the country's emphasis on initiatives such as "Make in India" and "Made in India".

Yadav also referred to India's new Parliament building as an example of what he described as the country's growing emphasis on its indigenous identity and languages.

He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government with strengthening India's position on the global stage and said the country was moving forward by relying increasingly on its own capabilities.

During his remarks, Yadav also criticised previous Congress governments, alleging that several changes he believes were necessary after Independence remained pending for decades. He further questioned the continued prominence of symbols associated with the country's colonial past.

Yadav also remembered Lal Bahadur Shastri, highlighting the former Prime Minister's simplicity, commitment to public service and determination.

He said Shastri's life and approach to public duty continued to serve as an example for the country.

Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Congress leaders also marked the birth anniversaries of Gandhi and Shastri at a separate programme in Bhopal.

State Congress president Jitu Patwari paid tribute to both leaders and said Gandhi's principles of truth, non-violence and social harmony remained relevant. He also recalled Shastri's "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan" slogan as an enduring message for the country.

Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh and several senior Congress leaders attended the party's programme.

The separate events by the BJP-led state government and Congress highlighted the continuing political and public significance of Gandhi and Shastri's legacies, with leaders from both sides invoking their respective ideas on national development, social harmony and public service.