All institutions and political parties must stand united for national interests: PM Modi

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on all institutions and political parties in the country to stand united in the interest of national security and national interests. In his Mahanavami message, Modi said every citizen should take a pledge to put the nation first, identify its enemies and defeat them.

He said forces that damage the country's pride, create divisions in society and show hatred towards its culture must be defeated. Victory will ultimately belong to those who stand on the side of truth and humanity, he added.

Modi said the Central government was committed to promoting a strong sense of self-respect rooted in the country's cultural heritage. He also pointed out that more than 650 ancient idols and other artefacts had been brought back to India from abroad over the past 12 years. Protecting the country's identity remains a priority for the government, he said.