PM Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, re-emphasises need for Swachh Bharat

Says a clean India will enhance our development journey and benefit the poor

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 146th birth anniversary at his Raj Ghat memorial here.

He was accompanied by senior BJP leader L K Advani, Union Urban Development Minister M Venkaiah Naidu and other ministers.

PM Modi also used the occasion to re-emphasise Mahatma Gandhi's dream of having a 'Swachh Bharat' in a tweet.

"Cleanliness was very close to Mahatma Gandhi's heart. Let us reaffirm our commitment for Swachh Bharat and fulfill our beloved Bapu's dream. A clean India will enhance our development journey and benefit the poor," Modi said in a tweet.

Modi also paid tribute to Lal Bahadur Shastri on his 111th birth anniversary.

"I bow to the proud son of India, Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary," PM Modi tweeted.

"Shastri ji is remembered for his simplicity & integrity. His firm leadership during testing times became a major asset for our nation," he added.

Indians all over the world are celebrating Gandhi's 146th birth anniversary today. October 2 is also observed as the International Day of Non-Violence.