Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary on Friday, October 2, 2026. He recalled Bapu’s message of truth, non-violence, simplicity and Swadeshi. PM Modi said these values can continue to guide the country towards a better society and the goal of Viksit Bharat.Key HighlightsPM Modi remembered Mahatma Gandhi on Gandhi Jayanti.He highlighted truth and non-violence.He also recalled simplicity and Swadeshi.He linked Gandhi’s values with the Viksit Bharat goal.PM Modi Remembers Mahatma GandhiMahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary is observed as Gandhi Jayanti on October 2 every year. The day is also associated with messages on peace, non-violence, cleanliness and public service.In his Gandhi Jayanti message, PM Modi recalled the values linked with Mahatma Gandhi’s life. These include truth, non-violence, simple living and the use of Indian-made goods.The Prime Minister said Gandhi’s message remains important for society. He also connected these values with India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation.“May Bapu’s timeless message keep guiding us towards better society and a Viksit Bharat.”The statement was part of PM Modi’s Gandhi Jayanti message, as reported by IANS.Focus on Truth and Non-ViolenceTruth and non-violence were central ideas in Mahatma Gandhi’s public life. His work during India’s freedom movement made these ideas widely known in India and abroad.PM Modi has also spoken about Gandhi’s ideals on earlier occasions. In his 2025 Gandhi Jayanti message, he said Gandhi’s ideals continue to inspire people and linked his path with the goal of building a Viksit Bharat.Swadeshi and Simple LivingPM Modi also recalled Gandhi’s focus on Swadeshi. The idea encourages people to support local products and local work.The Prime Minister has earlier described Swadeshi as an important part of the vision for a developed and self-reliant India. Gandhi Jayanti is observed across the country with prayer meetings and other public activities. The day is also a reminder of Gandhi’s ideas about peace, service and social responsibility.In 2026, President Droupadi Murmu also said Gandhi’s message of peace and non-violence remains relevant. She connected his ideals of empathy and inclusion with the national goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047. PM Modi’s October 2 message therefore placed focus on Gandhi’s values and their continued relevance to India’s development journey.