Modi's message: Think beyond politics

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday urged NDA parliamentarians to "think above politics" and spread the message of 'Swachh Bharat' or Clean India initiative to schools.

"Modi urged the MPs of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to visit schools in their areas over a five-day period beginning Nov 14 -- the 125th birth anniversary of India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, and explain to children the importance of hygiene. This would send a positive message," said a statement from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

"The 400-odd MPs of the NDA together represented a force with tremendous positive energy, which could help chart a new course for the country. Let us think big. Let us think far. Let us think above politics," the statement quoted Modi as saying.

Soon after the meeting, Modi tweeted: "Interacted with NDA MPs earlier today." The statement said Modi also urged the members of parliament, for whom he hosted a 'Diwali Milan' at his official residence at 7 Race Course Road, to "take to the people, the work done by the NDA government for the welfare of the poor". He also urged the parliamentarians to help chart a new course for the country.

During the gathering, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley briefed the MPs on the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, coal, gas pricing and diesel deregulation.

Rural Development Minister Nitin Gadkari spoke about the Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana and Labour Minister Narendra Singh Tomar briefed them on the various initiatives taken under the Shramev Jayate Karyakram.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu gave some tips for the upcoming winter session of parliament. The Diwali Milan was also attended by BJP president Amit Shah, and senior leader L.K. Advani.

-PTI