New Delhi: President A P J Abdul Kalam on October 1 said there was need for all to rededicate themselves to foster unity of minds in the motherland and spread message of peace, tolerance, communal harmony and national development on the occasion of birth anniversary of father of nation, Mahatma Gandhi.

"As years roll by and as our country progresses towards higher levels of development, the teachings of Mahatma would continue to guide all of us. In a strife- torn world, where self-aggrandisement and unbridled avarice subjugage every other emotion, the life of Bapuji would stand as a solitary beacon of hope," he said in his message.

Recalling Mahatma Gandhi trundling barefoot in Bengal trying to ensure communal harmony and spreading the message of peace and non-violence, when the whole nation was rejoicing and celebrating the birth of Independent India, he said, "That was Gandhiji, the Mahatma."

"The true selfless soul, the ultimate symbol of humility, who found us freedom treading with single minded devotion the path of truth, peace, love and non- violence," the President said.

Kalam said like the first vision of the nation to attain freedom generated unity of thoughts and actions with a singular aim, "we recognise our nation has to have the second vision to transform India into a developed nation".

The President said this needs focussed mission projects and actions from everyone with unified thinking that the nation is bigger than the individual.

"This vision armed with economic strength will eliminate all small problems and actions and the evil designs of divisive forces that challenge the peace and prosperity of the nation and its security," Kalam said.

"Oh Almighty, let the unity of minds blossom and the second vision be born out of sweat and sweat of my people, and bless our youth to live in a developed India," he said.

PTI