The year 1857 was a ‘turning point’ in the nineteenth century signaling the beginning of the end of many centuries of colonial rule. This resurgence of nationalism started as small streams of dissent with the tyranny of colonial rule. This began at 6 pm on Sunday, 10th May 1857, in Meerut, with what was called a mutiny against the foreign troops. In reality, it was a symptom of something far deeper and greater. Soon, these small streams joined together to become a powerful flood as a nationwide movement to regain our lost freedom.
When I visualise the events of 1857, I get the real message about unity of India. How to feel the freedom and how to experience the freedom? Let me take you, dear friends, who have assembled here, and all the people of my country, to a mission. The mission is: How to protect our freedom from within, and from any external interference to make India politically, economically and socially a strong nation.
Vision of India: I visualise the following distinctive profile for India by the year 2020 will have to emerge.
A nation where the rural and urban divide has reduced to a thin line.
A nation where there is equitable distribution and adequate access to energy and quality water.
A nation where agriculture, industry and service sector work together in symphony.
A nation where education with value system is not denied to any meritorious candidate because of societal or economic discrimination.
A nation which is the best destination for most talented scholars, scientists and investors.
A nation where the best of health care is available to all.
A nation where governance is responsive, transparent and corruption free.
A nation where poverty has been totally eradicated, illiteracy removed and crimes against women and children are absent and none in society feels alienated.
A nation that is prosperous, healthy, secure, peaceful and happy, and continues with a sustainable growth path.
A nation that is one of the best places to live in and is proud of its leadership.
The road map: To achieve the goals of developed India, a swift and bold national movement is essential. In this movement, every citizen, every constituent of our democracy has to participate.
Excerpts from former President A P J Abdul Kalam’s address at India Islamic Cultural Centre during his years in office