Modi compliments cricket diplomacy with Afghanistan

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, June 24

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 45th edition of “Mann Ki Baat” today, lauded the cricket diplomacy between India and Afghanistan, showered praises on states for the smooth rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and sought ideas from public to celebrate the 550th year of Guru Nanak Dev’s Prakash Parv in 2019.

Praising Indian cricket team’s gesture of calling Afghani players while posing for photographs after winning the Test trophy, Modi said it showed the real sportsmanship. “I wish we play together and blossom together,” he said.   

The PM said he remembered Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani’s words on Twitter tagging him along in which he said: “The people of Afghanistan are extremely proud of our hero Rashid Khan. I’m also thankful to our Indian friends who created a platform for our players to showcase their skills.” 

Noting that Guru Nanak Dev showed the righteous path of life to millions and inspiring them for centuries, PM Modi said Guru Nanak Dev’s teachings and his endeavour to eradicate caste discrimination are still relevant for all to imbibe and immolate.

“The 550th Prakash Parv of Guru Nanak Dev will be celebrated in 2019. I urge you to suggest ideas on which we can make preparations and can also celebrate Prakash Parv as Prerna Parv with great pride,” he said.

Mentioning about the horrific incident of Jallianwala Bagh on April 13, 1919, the PM said next year would be the 100th year of the event that “embarrassed the entire humanity” and for this also “the countrymen should think and come up with the ideas to mark the day”. He went on to add that violence and torture “can’t solve any problem”.

On GST, the PM said: “If I have to give credit to anyone for the successful implementation of ‘One Nation, One Tax’ reform, I credit the states. In the GST scheme, information technology has replaced the inspector. Everything from return to refund is done online.”