Country never forgets those who dedicate their lives in its service: PM Modi on Bharat Ratna to Advani

Addressing a gathering in Odisha's Sambalpur, PM Modi expressed his admiration for LK Advani's 'unparalleled' works and services.

By: Express Web Desk

New Delhi | Updated: February 3, 2024 06:23 PM IST

3 min read

Earlier in the day, PM Modi announced that L K Advani would be conferred the country's highest civilian award, while calling the party stalwart’s contributions to the development of India “monumental”. (ANI/File)

Shortly after his announcement of conferring Bharat Ratna on veteran BJP leader L K Advani, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday said the decision is a testament to the fact that the country never forgets those who dedicate their lives in its service.

Addressing a gathering after inaugurating projects worth over Rs 68,000 crore in Odisha’s Sambalpur, Modi termed Bharat Ratna to Advani as “an honour to the ideology of nation first.”

“Today, the country has taken a decision to confer Bharat Ratna to one of its great sons and former deputy prime minister, L K Advani. The way Advaniji worked dedicatedly for the country for decades as the deputy PM, home minister and I&B minister is unparalleled. The honour (Bharat Ratna) is a sign that the country never forgets those who have spent their lives in its service,” PM Modi said.

Also Read | Long arc of Advani journey: Ayodhya Yatra to BJP architect, Vajpayee No. 2 to fade-out

“It is an honour for me that I got his (Advani’s) constant affection and guidance. I wish him a long life and best wishes on behalf of the people of the country from the land of Odisha,” Modi added.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi announced that L K Advani would be conferred the country’s highest civilian award, while calling the party stalwart’s contributions to the development of India “monumental”.

In a post on X, Modi said, “I am very happy to share that Shri LK Advani Ji will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. I also spoke to him and congratulated him on being conferred this honour. One of the most respected statesmen of our times, his contribution to the development of India is monumental. His is a life that started from working at the grassroots to serving the nation as our Deputy Prime Minister. He distinguished himself as our Home Minister and I&B Minister as well. His Parliamentary interventions have always been exemplary, full of rich insights.”

The 96-year-old leader is the longest-serving president of the BJP.

Meanwhile, Advani said the Bharat Ratna award was just not an honour for him as a person but also for the ideals and principles that he strove to serve throughout his life.

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“With utmost humility and gratitude, I accept the Bharat Ratna that has been conferred on me today,” he said in a statement soon after PM Modi announced his name for the country’s highest civilian honour.

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