Prime Minister of India addresses gathering at Dussehra Mahotsav

NEW DELHI (INDIA): The Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi has addressed a public gathering at the Dussehra Mahotsav at Aishbagh Ramleela Ground in Lucknow today.nnGreeting the people on Vijaya Dashami, the Prime Minister said, he is fortunate to be a part of this ancient tradition of Ramleela. He described Ramleela as the festival of victory of truth over falsehood; and of defeating the oppressor.nnHe said that as we burn Ravana every year, we should all resolve to remove the ills from ourselves, our social structures and our nation.nnHe asked the people to resolve to end ten shortcomings within themselves, each Dussehra.nnHe emphasized that all of us have the strength to try and ward off these evils, and make this nation great.nnDescribing terrorism as the enemy of humanity, the Prime Minister said that Shri Ram represents the best of humanity, and is an epitome of sacrifice and dedication.nnThe Prime Minister said that it was Jatayu – a character in the Ramayana – who fought terrorism first.nnJatayu gives us the message of fearlessness, the Prime Minister said, exhorting 125 crore Indians to be Jatayu in the face of terrorism. He said if everyone is alert, the evil designs of the terrorists can be foiled.nnThe Prime Minister said that the forces of humanity across the world must now unite against terrorism. He added that even those who provide sanctuary to terrorists must not be spared now.nnThe Prime Minister said that day is also observed as the International Day of the Girl Child. Speaking out strongly against female foeticide, he said we must strive hard to bring an end to such an evil practice.