There is enormous potential for cooperation between India and Turkmenistan: PM
As India deepens its relations with Central Asia, Turkmenistan will play a crucial role in it: PM
India and Turkmenistan agree to combat terrorism and extremism collectively
PM appreciates President and people of Turkmenistan for the support in making #YogaDay a huge global success
His Excellency Mr President,
Members of the media,
It is a great pleasure to visit Turkmenistan. I am also delighted to see Ashgabat. It stands on a once thriving trade route since ancient times. It is now a beautiful 'Ak Shaharim' or the White City. It reflects your great vision and the nation's prosperity.
Mr. President, I am very grateful to you and the people of Turkmenistan for a very warm welcome and generous hospitality.
Our long standing and deep-rooted civilisational and cultural ties are well known. It has created a sense of familiarity and goodwill between our people. It is a strong foundation of close relations between our two countries.
India attaches great importance to this relationship. There is enormous potential for cooperation between India, a nation of 1.25 billion people with a large and rapidly growing economy, and Turkmenistan, a nation rich in resources.
As India deepens its relations with Central Asia, Turkmenistan will play a crucial role in it.
We have shared interests in a peaceful and stable Afghanistan and Central Asia. We also have common purpose in combating terrorism and extremism in our region.
Connecting South and Central Asia will open up new economic opportunities in our region and beyond.
I thank Mr. President for sharing this vision and for his strong support to the relationship.
The most significant initiative in our relationship is the TAPI Gas Pipeline. This could transform regional economic cooperation and bring prosperity along the route. We welcomed the agreements between the four countries for the pipeline. We underlined the need to implement the project quickly.
I also proposed to President that we should explore multiple options, including the additional possibility of land-sea route through Iran.
I conveyed our interest in long term investment in the energy sector in Turkmenistan. We welcome the decision by ONGC Videsh Limited to open an office in Ashgabat.
We had a very positive discussion on India's interest in investment in downstream industries, including petrochemicals and fertilizer. The Memorandum of Understanding in the fertilizer sector will enable long term arrangements for supply of fertilizers from here to India.
Connectivity is an area of priority for both countries. If we use the Iran route, Ashgabat is the first capital we would reach in Central Asia.
We are grateful for Turkmenistan’s support to India joining the Ashgabat Agreement on trade and transit. I have also proposed that Turkmenistan becomes a member of the International North South Transport Corridor.
Together with the Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Iran rail link, and India's proposed investment in Chahbahar Port in Iran, these initiatives will strengthen connectivity between our countries.
Training and human resource development is an important area of cooperation. India will enhance its training scholarship programme. I welcome the upgrading of the Turkmen India Industrial Training Institute in Ashgabat.
The agreements on sports and tourism will deepen the contacts between our people.
Later today, I will have the pleasure of unveiling the bust of Mahatma Gandhi. It will be a reminder of our shared commitment to the cause of a peaceful, inclusive and a just world.
I am looking forward to the inauguration of the Centre of Yoga and Traditional Medicines. It is a tribute to our cultural links. It also gives us opportunities to revive our very old tradition of fruitful cooperation in traditional medicines. I also proposed to him that Ashgabat could be developed as an International Centre for Holistic Healthcare. I offered full support for it.
The defence agreement is a reflection of our shared interest in closer security cooperation, including in combating terrorism.
I am grateful to President and the people of Turkmenistan for the support in making the International Day of Yoga on June 21 a huge global success.
I congratulated the President on the 20th anniversary of the adoption of Permanent Neutrality by Turkmenistan. India acknowledges the contributions of this policy to peace and stability in Turkmenistan and the wider region.
Again, Mr. President, this has been a short but very productive visit. I am confident that our relationship will grow in strength in the coming years.
I look forward to receiving you in India, Mr. President, in the near future.
Navkar Mahamantra is not just a mantra, it is the core of our faith: PM Modi
April 09, 2025
Share
Navkar Mahamantra is not just a mantra, it is the core of our faith: PM
Navkar Mahamantra embodies humility, peace and universal harmony: PM
Navkar Mahamantra along with the worship of Panch Parmeshthi symbolises the right knowledge, perception and conduct, and the path leading to salvation: PM
Jain literature has been the backbone of the intellectual glory of India: PM
Climate change is today's biggest crisis and its solution is a sustainable lifestyle, which the Jain community has practiced for centuries and aligns perfectly with India's Mission LiFE: PM
PM proposes 9 resolutions on Navkar Mahamantra Divas
Jai Jinendra,
The mind is calm, the mind is steady, only peace, a wonderful feeling, beyond words, beyond thought, the Navkar Mahamantra is still resonating in the mind. Namo Arihantanam. Namo Siddhaanam. Namo Aaryanaam. Namo Uvajjhaayanam. Namo Loye Savvasahunam. (नमो अरिहंताणं॥ नमो सिद्धाणं॥ नमो आयरियाणं॥ नमो उवज्झायाणं॥ नमो लोए सव्वसाहूणं॥) One voice, one flow, one energy, no ups, no downs, just stability, just equanimity. One such consciousness, similar rhythm, similar light within. I am still feeling this spiritual power of Navkar Mahamantra within me. A few years ago, I was a witness to a similar mass mantra chanting in Bangalore, today I had the same feeling and with the same depth. This time millions of pious souls connected with the same consciousness, words spoken together, energy awakened together, all in India and abroad, this is really unprecedented.
Shravaks and Shravikaas, brothers and sisters,
This body was born in Gujarat. Where the influence of Jainism is visible in every street and since childhood, I got the kind company of Jain Acharyas.
|
Friends,
Navkar Mahamantra is not just a mantra, it is the core of our faith. The basic tone of our life and its importance is not just spiritual. It shows the path to everyone from self to society. It is a journey from the people to the world. Not only each word of this mantra, but each letter is also a mantra in itself. When we chant the Navkar Mahamantra, we bow to the Panch Parmeshthi. Who are the Panch Parmeshthi? Arihant - Those who have attained only knowledge, who enlighten the great beings, who have 12 divine qualities. Siddha - Those who have destroyed 8 karmas, attained salvation, who have 8 pure qualities. Acharya - Those who follow Mahavrata, who are guides, their personality is filled with 36 qualities. Upadhyaya - Those who mold the knowledge of the path of salvation into teachings, who are filled with 25 qualities. Sadhu - Those who test themselves in the fire of penance. Those who are moving towards attaining salvation, they also have 27 great qualities.
Friends,
When we chant Navkar Mahamantra, we bow to the 108 divine qualities, we remember the welfare of humanity, this mantra reminds us – knowledge and action are the direction of life, Guru is the light and the path is the one that emerges from within. Navkar Mahamantra says, believe in yourself, start your own journey, the enemy is not outside, the enemy is within. Negative thinking, distrust, animosity, selfishness, these are the enemies, defeating whom is the real victory. And this is the reason why Jainism inspires us to conquer ourselves, not the outside world. When we conquer ourselves, we become Arihant. And so, Navkar Mahamantra is not a demand, it is a path. A path that purifies a person from within. Which shows the path of harmony to a person.
Friends,
The Navkar Mahamantra is truly the mantra of human meditation, sadhana and self-purification. This mantra has a global perspective. This eternal Mahamantra, like other Shruti-Smriti traditions of India, was first passed on orally for centuries, then through inscriptions and finally through Prakrit manuscripts, generation after generation, and even today it continues to guide us. The Navkar Mahamantra is, along with the worship of the Panch Parmeshthi, right knowledge. It is true faith. Right conduct and above all, the path leading to salvation.
|
We know that there are 9 elements of life. These 9 elements lead life towards perfection. Therefore, 9 has a special significance in our culture. In Jainism, Navkar Mahamantra, nine elements, nine virtues and in other traditions, nine Nidhi, Navdwar, Navgrah, Navdurga, Navdha Bhakti, nine is everywhere. In every culture, in every sadhana. Chanting is also done 9 times or 27, 54, 108 times, i.e., in multiples of 9. Why? Because 9 is a symbol of perfection. Everything repeats after 9. Multiply 9 by anything, the root of the answer is again 9. This is not just math, this is not mathematics. This is philosophy. When we achieve perfection, then our mind, our brain becomes upward with stability. There is no desire for new things. Even after progress, we do not go away from our origin and this is the essence of Navkar Mahamantra.
Friends,
This philosophy of Navkar Mahamantra connects with the vision of a developed India. I have said from the Red Fort - Developed India means development as well as heritage! An India that will not stop, an India that will not pause. That will touch heights, but will not be cut off from its roots. Developed India will be proud of its culture. That is why, we preserve the teachings of our Tirthankaras. When the time came for the 2550th Nirvana Mahotsav of Bhagwan Mahavir, we celebrated it across the country. Today, when ancient idols are returned from abroad, the idols of our Tirthankaras are also returned. You will be proud to know that in the past years, idols of more than 20 Tirthankaras have been returned from abroad, these were stolen at one time or the other.
Friends,
The role of Jainism in creating the identity of India has been invaluable. We are committed to preserve it. I don't know how many of you would have visited the new Parliament House. And if you have visited, would you have seen it carefully or not? You have seen that the new Parliament House has become a temple of democracy. The influence of Jainism is clearly visible there too. As soon as you enter through the Shardul Dwar, the Sammed Shikhar is visible in the architectural gallery. There is an idol of Tirthankara at the entrance of Lok Sabha, this idol has returned from Australia. There is a wonderful painting of Lord Mahavir on the ceiling of the Constitution Gallery. All 24 Tirthankaras are together on the wall of the South Building. It takes time for some people to come alive, it comes after a long wait, but it comes strongly. These philosophies show direction to our democracy, show the right path. The definitions of Jainism have been laid down in very compendious formulas in the ancient Agama texts. Like - Vatthu Sahavo Dhammo, Charittam Khalu Dhammo, Jeevan Rakkhanam Dhammo, (वत्थु सहावो धम्मो, चारित्तम् खलु धम्मो, जीवाण रक्खणं धम्मो), following these values, our government is moving forward on the mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.
Friends,
Jain literature is the backbone of India's intellectual glory. It is our duty to preserve this knowledge. And that is why we have given Prakrit and Pali the status of classical languages. Now it will be possible to do more research on Jain literature.
|
And friends,
If language survives, knowledge will survive. If language grows, knowledge will expand. You know, in our country there are hundreds of years old Jain manuscripts. Every page is a mirror of history. It is an ocean of knowledge. “Samaya Dhamma Mudahare Muni” ("समया धम्म मुदाहरे मुणी”) - Religion lies in equality. “Jo Sayam Jah Vessijja Teno Bhavai Bandgo” ("जो सयं जह वेसिज्जा तेणो भवइ बंद्गो") - One who misuses knowledge gets destroyed. “Kaamo Kasayo Khave Jo, So Muni – Pavakamma Jao.” ("कामो कसायो खवे जो, सो मुणी – पावकम्म-जओ।) “One who conquers desire and passions is a true Muni.”
But friends,
Unfortunately, many important texts were slowly disappearing. That is why we are going to start the Gyan Bharatam Mission. It has been announced in this year's budget. Preparations are being made to conduct a survey of crores of manuscripts in the country. By digitizing ancient heritage, we will connect antiquity with modernity. This was a very important announcement in the budget and you people should be prouder. But your attention must have gone to the income tax exemption of Rs 12 lakh. A hint is enough for the wise.
Friends,
The mission we have started is an Amrit Sankalp in itself! New India will explore possibilities through AI and will show the way to the world through spirituality.
Friends,
As far as I know and understand about Jainism, Jainism is very scientific and very sensitive. The world is facing many situations today, like war, terrorism or environmental problems, the solution to such challenges lies in the basic principles of Jainism. It is written in the symbol of Jain tradition - “Parasparograho Jeevanam” ("परस्परोग्रहो जीवानाम") which means all the living beings of the world are dependent on each other. Therefore, Jain tradition prohibits even the tiniest violence. This is the best message of environmental protection, mutual harmony and peace. We all know about the 5 main principles of Jainism. But there is another main principle - Anekantvaad. The philosophy of Anekantvaad has become even more relevant in today's era. When we believe in Anekantvaad, there is no situation of war and conflict. Then people understand the feelings of others and also understand their perspective. I think today the whole world needs to understand the philosophy of Anekantvaad the most.
|
Friends,
Today the world's trust in India is deepening. Our efforts, our results, are themselves becoming an inspiration. Global institutions are looking towards India. Why? Because India has moved ahead. And when we move ahead, this is India's specialty, when India moves ahead, paths open up for others. This is the spirit of Jainism. I will say again, Parasparopagraha Jeevanam! (परस्परोपग्रह जीवानाम्!) Life runs only with mutual cooperation. Life runs only with mutual cooperation. Due to this thinking, the world's expectations from India have also increased. And we have also intensified our efforts. Today, the biggest crisis is, out of many crises, one crisis is being discussed the most - Climate Change. What is its solution? Sustainable Lifestyle. That is why India started Mission Life. Mission Life means 'Life Style for Environment' LIFE. And Jain society has been living this way for centuries. Simplicity, restraint and sustainability are the basis of your life. It is said in Jainism - Aparigraha, now is the time to spread this to everyone. I urge you, wherever you are, in any corner of the world, in whichever country you are, definitely become the flag bearer of Mission Life.
Friends,
Today's world is a world of information. The treasury of knowledge is becoming visible. But, Na Vijja Vinnanam Karoti Kinchi! (न विज्जा विण्णाणं करोति किंचि!) Knowledge without wisdom is just heaviness, not depth. Jainism teaches us that the right path is found only through knowledge and wisdom. This balance is most important for our youth. Where there is tech, there should also be touch. Where there is skill, there should also be soul, there should also be Atma. Navkar Mahamantra can become the source of this wisdom. For the new generation, this mantra is not just a Japa (chant), it is a direction.
Friends,
Today, when such a large number of people have chanted the Navkar Mahamantra together across the world, I want that all of us, wherever we are sitting today, not just in this room, should take these 9 resolutions with us. You will not clap because you will feel that trouble is coming. First resolution- Resolution to save water. Many of you must have gone on a pilgrimage to Mahudi. Buddhisagar ji Maharaj had said something there 100 years ago, it is written there. Buddhisagar Maharaj ji had said - "Water will be sold in grocery stores..." 100 years ago. Today we are living that future. We buy water from grocery stores for drinking. Now we have to understand the value of every drop. It is our duty to save every drop.
Second resolution- One tree in the name of mother (Ek Ped Maan Ke Naam). In the last few months, more than 100 crore trees have been planted in the country. Now every person should plant a tree in the name of his mother, nurture it with the blessings of the mother. I did an experiment when you gave me the opportunity to serve on the land of Gujarat. So, I created a Tirthankar forest in Taranga ji. Taranga ji is in a deserted state, when pilgrims come, they get a place to sit and I wanted to find and plant the tree under which our 24 Tirthankaras sat in this Tirthankar forest. I tried my best on my part, but unfortunately, I was able to collect only 16 trees, I could not find eight trees. Do we feel aching in our hearts when the trees under which the Tirthankaras meditated become extinct? You too decide, I will plant the tree under which every Tirthankara sat and I will plant that tree in my mother's name.
|
Third resolution- Mission of cleanliness. There is subtle non-violence in cleanliness, there is freedom from violence. Every street, every locality, every city of ours should be clean, every person should contribute to it, won't you? Fourth resolution- Vocal for local. Do one thing, especially my youth, youngsters, friends, daughters, whatever things you use in your house from waking up in the morning to sleeping at night, brush, comb, whatever, make a list of how many things are foreign. You yourself will be surprised, how many things have entered your life and then decide, this week I will reduce three, next week I will reduce five and then gradually every day I will reduce nine and will keep reducing one by one, I will keep reciting Navkar Mantra.
Friends,
When I say Vocal for Local, we want to buy the products made in India and sold in India as well as around the world. We have to make local global. The products that have the fragrance of an Indian's sweat and the fragrance of Indian soil, we must buy them and inspire others to do the same.
Fifth resolution- Desh Darshan. You can travel the world, but first know India, know your India. Every state of ours, every culture, every corner, every tradition is amazing, priceless, it should be seen but we will not see it and will say that if the world comes to see it, then why will it come. Now if we do not give greatness to our children at home, then who will give it in the neighborhood.
Sixth resolution- To adopt natural farming. Jainism says- Jeevo Jeevass No Hanta - (जीवो जीवस्स नो हन्ता) “One living being should not become the killer of another living being.” We have to free Mother Earth from chemicals. We have to stand with the farmers. We have to take the mantra of natural farming to every village.
Seventh resolution- Adopt a healthy lifestyle. There should be a return to Indian traditions in food. Millets Shri Anna should be served on the plates as much as possible. And there should be 10% less oil in food so that obesity can be kept away! And you know how to calculate, money will be saved and less work will be needed.
Friends,
Jain tradition says – ‘Tapenam Tanu Mansam Hoi.’ (‘तपेणं तणु मंसं होइ।’) Penance and self-restraint make the body healthy and the mind peaceful. And a big medium for this is yoga and sports. Therefore, the eighth resolution is to bring yoga and sports into life. Whether it is home or office, school or park, we have to make playing and doing yoga a part of our life. The ninth resolution is to help the poor. Holding someone's hand, filling someone’s plate is the real service.
|
Friends,
These new resolutions will give us new energy, this is my guarantee. Our new generation will get a new direction. And peace, harmony and compassion will increase in our society. And I will definitely say one thing, if I have made any of these new resolutions for my benefit, then don't do it. Even if you have done it for the benefit of my party, don't do it. Now you should not be bound by any restrictions. And all the Maharaj Sahibs are also listening to me, I urge them that if these words of mine come out of your mouth, then their strength will increase.
Friends,
Our Ratnatraya, Dashlakshan, Solah Karan, Paryushan etc. festivals pave the way for self-welfare. The same Vishwa Navkar Mahamantra, this day will increase continuous happiness, peace and prosperity in the world, I have full faith in our Acharyas Bhagwants and hence I have faith in you too. Today I am happy, which happiness I want to express, because I have been associated with these things earlier also. I am very happy that all four sects have come together in this event. This standing ovation is not for Modi, I dedicate it at the feet of all the great men of those four sects. This event has become our inspiration, our unity, our solidarity and the feeling of the power of unity and the identity of unity. We have to take the message of unity in the country in this way. We have to connect with everyone who says Bharat Mata Ki Jai. This is the energy for building a developed India, it will strengthen its foundation.
Friends,
Today we are fortunate that we are receiving the blessings of Guru Bhagwants at many places in the country. I bow down to the entire Jain family for organizing this global event. I bow down with respect to our Acharya Bhagwants, Mara Sahib, Muni Maharaj, Shravaks and Shravikaas who have gathered in the entire country and abroad. And I especially congratulate JITO for organizing this event. More applause is being given for JITO than for Navkar Mantra. JITO Apex Chairman Prithvi raj Kothari Ji, President Vijay Bhandari Ji, Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi Ji, other JITO officials and dignitaries from every corner of the country and the world, best wishes to all of you for this historic event. Thank you.
There is enormous potential for cooperation between India and Turkmenistan: PM
