Keeping surroundings clean is also form of patriotism: Modi

Indore: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said keeping one's surroundings and neighbourhoods clean is also a form of patriotism.

In a video message for Indore Municipal Council and some local civic bodies at the launch of their cleanliness drive to mark Mahatama Gandhi's birth anniversary, Modi said, "Patriotism does not only mean going on the warfront and fighting against the enemies on the border.

"Keeping your surroundings, neighbourhoods, villages and slums clean is also a form of patriotism."

Modi said Mahatma Gandhi always used to stress on cleanliness.

"It is a heartening thing that today cleanliness has become one of the prominent topics in the country. Now, local governing bodies will have to shun inaction and citizens will have to do their bit towards keeping the surroundings clean," Modi said.

The Prime Minister lauded Lok Sabha Speaker and Member of Parliament from Indore, Sumitra Mahajan, for her active role in launching the cleanliness drive in the city.

Calling Mahajan a "source of inspiration", Modi said, "Despite holding a very high position, she is spending time and energy to inspire citizens of Indore towards cleanliness."

Modi said the cleanliness drive in Indore would inspire other cities in the country to take up the same cause.

Meanwhile, an Indore civic official said under the cleanliness drive launched today meetings are being held in the city, through which common people are being motivated towards the cause.