Era of doom-gloom replaced by hope-possibility: Dhankhar

Guwahati, Oct 27: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Sunday said that an atmosphere of hope and possibility has replaced the earlier era of 'doom and gloom' in the country, which has emerged as a power to be reckoned with at the global level.

He claimed that there will be forces, both within and outside the boundaries, which will not like India coming forth as a global power, and the youth of the country have to respond to such forces through their action.

Speaking at the 21st biennial convention of Krishnaguru International Spiritual Youth Society here, Dhankhar said, "Ten years ago, the atmosphere was of doom and gloom. Now what we see is an atmosphere of hope and possibility. It has because of the contributions of our great men and saints that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi India is a power at the global level now."

"When Bharat is rising, some people are bound to be hurt. Some are within the country and some outside the youth will answer these people through the knowledge you have acquired and utilise for the nation," he added.

The vice president asserted that the spiritual power of the country is at the centre of Bharat's rise and urged the youth to follow the path of spirituality, infusing with it the sense of nationalism and modernity.

He said the difference between India and other countries is "our cultural heritage of 5,000 years, unparalleled in the world, and kept alive by our great men even in the face of challenges."

He mentioned that spiritual leader Krishnaguru was among such great men who moulded the consciousness of the people.

Dhankhar also noted that the activities of Krishnaguru Sevashram are not confined to holding conclaves alone, but has other aspects also like the university run by its trust which plays a vital role in shaping the youth of the country.

The unique spiritual heritage of India is encapsulated in scriptures like Ramayan and Mahabharat, and the knowledge of these texts must be explored and practised by the youth, the vice president exhorted.

"Ethical living, selfless action and importance of duty – our youth must remember these things and lead their lives according," he added.

Dhankhar also highlighted the economic growth of the country and said, "While you strive for spiritual awakening, another awakening is unfolding for us. It is the incremental and continual rise of Bharat."

"Bharat was suppressed for centuries and now it is released. An ecosystem is in place where every youth can explore his potential and rise," he added.

Dhankhar maintained that the North East region is in an advantageous position to reap the benefits of the development taking place in the country, especially through the Centre's focus on 'Act East Policy'.

He said the Central government has spent Rs 3.37 lakh crore for the region in the last decade and its footprint can be seen in the development of communication, connectivity and other sectors.

"Transformation of North East is a testament to the spirit of inclusion. For decades the region faced challenges relating to development. Much has been done and work is in progress," he added.

The vice president also mentioned Assamese being accorded classical language status recently, terming it a proud moment for the state and its people.

Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Bhaktimatri Kuntala Patowari Gowsami, Kamala Gogoi, president, Krishnaguru International Spiritual Youth Society and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

The vice president and his wife planted two saplings as part of their visit to the city.

He also tried his hands at playing the 'khol', a traditional drum, taking it over from a young boy who was part of a team performing in honour of the vice president at the venue.