PM Modi Pays Tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at Parakram Diwas Event

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday participated in the Parakram Diwas celebrations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands via video conferencing, paying tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary and highlighting his enduring legacy of courage and nationalism.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said January 23 marks the birth anniversary of Netaji, whose bravery, vision and sacrifice continue to inspire generations and command deep respect across the nation. He noted that Parakram Diwas has, in recent years, emerged as a major symbol of national pride.

Describing Netaji as not only a freedom fighter but also a visionary leader, PM Modi said Bose had imagined a modern and strong India deeply rooted in its civilisational values. He stressed the importance of familiarising the youth with Netaji’s ideals and said several initiatives had been undertaken to honour his legacy. These include setting up a museum at the Red Fort, installing a statue near India Gate, paying tribute to the Indian National Army (INA) during Republic Day parades, and instituting disaster management awards in Netaji’s name.

The Prime Minister said Netaji firmly believed that a nation must remain strong, as weakness hampers progress. “In this century, India is emerging as a determined power,” he said, citing Operation Sindoor as an example of the country’s decisive response to threats.

PM Modi highlighted progress in defence self-reliance, stating that India is moving from dependence on imports to becoming an exporter, with defence exports crossing Rs 23,000 crore. He also referred to indigenous defence systems such as the BrahMos missile gaining global recognition and said the armed forces are being strengthened through domestic capabilities.

He said that with the unity of 1.4 billion citizens, India is advancing on the path of self-reliance through the principles of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Swadeshi.

Referring to a series of important national observances — Parakram Diwas on January 23, National Voters’ Day on January 25, Republic Day on January 26, Beating Retreat on January 29, and Mahatma Gandhi’s death anniversary on January 30 — the Prime Minister said these dates together reflect a new tradition of honouring the spirit of the Republic. He also extended greetings to the people on the occasion.

Highlighting the significance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where the main Parakram Diwas celebrations for 2026 are being held, PM Modi said the islands symbolise heroism, sacrifice and unwavering determination. He recalled the hardships endured by freedom fighters such as Veer Savarkar in the Cellular Jail and emphasised the islands’ deep association with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

The Prime Minister said the Andaman and Nicobar Islands represent the undying spirit of freedom, noting that despite severe oppression, the resolve of revolutionaries to achieve independence only grew stronger. He recalled that the tricolour was first hoisted there on December 30, 1943, well before Independence in 1947, and described hoisting the flag at the same spot in 2018 during the 75th anniversary as an emotional moment that fulfilled the aspirations of countless patriots.

PM Modi alleged that after Independence, the rich history of the islands was neglected due to political insecurities and attempts to confine the freedom struggle to a single family. He pointed out that even after seven decades of Independence, several locations in the islands continued to bear colonial-era names linked to British officials.

He said his government addressed this by renaming Port Blair as Vijaypuram and renaming islands as Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep and Subhash Dweep. He added that in 2023, 21 islands were named after Param Vir Chakra awardees.

The event was attended by Andaman and Nicobar Lieutenant Governor Admiral D.K. Joshi (Retd.), Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose INA Trust Chairman Brigadier (Retd.) R.S. Chikara, and freedom struggle veteran Lieutenant R. Madhavan, among others.