At the convention hall of the Royal University of Bhutan, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi captivated his young audience with his articulate and convincing address this morning.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said, he sees dynamism and felt energized while meeting with the future of Bhutan. The talk is being conducted to meet the Prime Minister’s wish to connect with the youth and convey India’s interest with the younger people of Bhutan. Along with the students, Lyonchhen, cabinet ministers, Member of Parliaments and senior government officials were also present during the Indian Prime Minister’s address.
The Prime Minister said young minds should find innovative solutions for every challenge. And he highlighted that the youth should also shape the future of Bhutan and its citizens.
“Let no limitation constrain you. I want to tell you there is no better time to be young than now. The world today offers more opportunities than ever before. You have the power and potential to do extraordinary things which will impact generations to come. Find your real calling and pursue it with full passion,” said Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India.
Going beyond the traditional sectors of cooperation between the two countries, the prime minister also shared about seeking cooperation in new frontiers such as schools to space technology and digital payment and disaster management among two countries to bring direct impact for youths.
“It is crucial to connect scholars and academics beyond borders so that the creativity and talent of our students bring them at par with the best in the world. Cooperation between India National Knowledge Network and Bhutan’s DrukRen which became reality yesterday will serve this purpose. It will provide secure and fast connectivity between our universities, our research institutions, libraries, healthcare and agriculture universities. I urge you all to make full use of this facility,” he added.
The prime minister shared his appreciation with regard to Gross National Happiness that Bhutan adheres to and the developmental activities carried out in harmony with culture, tradition and environment.
“Bhutan’s message to humanity is happiness. A happiness which springs from harmony. The world can do with a lot more happiness. Happiness, which shall prevail over mindless hate. If people are happy, there will be harmony, where there is harmony, there will be peace. And it is peace that will help societies achieve progress through sustainable development. In a time where development is often seen in conflict with traditions and the environment, the world has much to learn from Bhutan. Here, development, environment and culture are not at loggerheads but are in synergy.”
He also highlighted about Bhutan and India’s great close bilateral relationship. He said, besides geographical boundary, similarities in history, culture and spiritual traditions have created unique and deep bonds between the two countries:
“India is the land where Prince Siddhartha became Gautama Buddha and from where the light of spiritual message, the light of Buddhism spread all over the world. Generations of monks, spiritual leaders, scholars and seekers have burnt that flame bright in Bhutan. They have also nurtured a special bond between India and Bhutan. As a result, our shared values have shaped a common world view. We are fortunate to be the living vehicle of this legacy. No other two countries in the world understand each other so well or share so much. And no two countries are such natural partners in bringing prosperity to their people.”
More than 4,000 Bhutanese students are studying in India and Prime Minister Modi expects more students over the years. He informed the august gathering that the Indian government is also willing to welcome more students from Bhutan to the Nalanda University to pursue Buddhist studies and traditions.
