In a significant move towards linguistic inclusion, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan unveiled a special Urdu publication on Monday in New Delhi. The book, titled "Khutbat-e-Modi: Lal Qila Ki Faseel Se," is a comprehensive compilation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's annual Independence Day addresses delivered from the iconic Red Fort ramparts.
Bridging Languages with National Discourse
The publication encompasses all speeches given by the Prime Minister between 2014 and 2025, translated into Urdu. This initiative was undertaken by the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL), an institution operating under the Ministry of Education with a mandate to preserve and propagate the Urdu language across India. The ministry positioned this effort as a crucial step to make the Prime Minister's key national addresses accessible to Urdu-speaking readers and scholars.
During the launch event, Minister Pradhan emphasized the publication's role in fostering a deeper connection between citizens and the government's developmental agenda. He highlighted that such works serve as a vital medium for the public to engage with the Prime Minister's ideas, priorities, and vision for the nation.
Themes of a New India
The ministry's release noted that Pradhan referred to the core themes consistently highlighted in PM Modi's speeches over the years. These foundational ideas include:
- Antyodaya (elevating the last person in the queue)
- Welfare schemes for the poor
- The Swachh Bharat mission
- National unity and integrity
- The collective aspirations of India's 140 crore citizens
These themes, the minister stated, collectively reflect the vision of a New India and the roadmap for a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
A Call for Wider Engagement and Preservation
Pradhan expressed a strong hope that this Urdu compilation would find a place in libraries nationwide, from schools to universities. He encouraged students, researchers, and general readers to utilize the book to engage in informed dialogue about the country's future trajectory.
Looking ahead, the Union Minister urged the NCPUL to proactively undertake more publishing projects in Urdu. He specifically mentioned works related to India's rich heritage, diverse culture, traditional lifestyle, and ancient knowledge systems. This, he believes, will further strengthen the institution's role in cultural preservation.
The launch event saw participation from a host of senior officials and dignitaries. Notable attendees included Vineet Joshi, Secretary (Higher Education); Chamu Krishna Shastry, Chairman of the Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti; and Shams Iqbal, Director of NCPUL. The academic community was represented by Naima Khatoon, Vice-Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University. Also present were Shahid Akhtar, Chairman of the National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions (NCMEI), and several joint secretaries and advisers from the education ministry.
