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Permanent Mission of India to the UN
New York

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International Day of Non-Violence

(Wednesday, 2 October 2024)

Welcome Remarks by Ambassador P. Harish, Permanent Representative

Excellencies, delegates, ladies and gentlemen,

I extend a warm welcome to all for today’s event to commemorate International Day of Non-Violence.

It is almost impossible to discuss peace and tolerance without referring to the ideals, thoughts and actions of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, known to the world as Mahatma – the great soul.

Today is the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi-the father of our nation, a remarkable person whose life, in his own words, was an open book.

Another phenomenal personality, Albert Einstein who was a great admirer of Gandhi and his principles, had this say about Gandhi.

“Generations to come will scarce believe that such a one as this ever in flesh and blood walked upon this earth" 

Excellencies,

The story of India reflects Mahatma Gandhi’s belief that strength comes from righteousness, not force; power comes from truth, not might and victory comes from moral courage not imposed submission.

It is only befitting that the United Nations had proclaimed October 2, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, as the International Day of Non-Violence.

Today’s commemoration helps us in reflecting on the life of Gandhi ji and reaffirming the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, and understanding around the world.

The core concepts of Gandhiji’s contribution towards a peaceful and just world:

Ahimsa (non-violence); Satyagraha (truth force that guides nonviolent resistance); Sarvodaya (welfare of all); Swaraj (self-rule) and Trusteeship (custodianship of the earth and sustainable use of natural resources).

These principles are enshrined in the UN Charter in one way or the other.

Today, when the world grapples with violence, armed conflicts and humanitarian emergencies, the ideals of non-violence, dialogue and tolerance promulgated by Gandhi ji continues to guide our actions in ensuring peace and stability around the world.

Excellencies,

Earlier today, I paid floral tribute to the bust of Mahatma Gandhi at North Lawns.

I believe it stands as a reminder to humanity to follow his ideals in letter and spirit to create a better and peaceful world- the fundamental objective of the United Nations.

I extend my gratitude to the Secretary General and President of the General Assembly for their messages.

I thank the Permanent Representatives of Jamaica, Sri Lanka and Viet Nam for their remarks and other colleagues for their participation.

I hope today’s discussion will inspire us to continue to follow the values and principles of Mahatma Gandhi.

Thank you all.

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