We have to ensure that no person in India, no region is left behind. This is also the goal behind the Republic Day parade, the prime minister said.

No person or region must be left behind in "new India", PM Narendra Modi said Friday in a pre-Republic Day speech where he addressed cadets from the NCC (National Cadet Corps) and NSS (National Service Scheme) in New Delhi. "[As we move towards a new India] we have to ensure that no person, no region is left behind," PM Modi said, adding that that was the idea behind the Republic Day parade as well.

Speaking to the young NCC and NSS cadets, PM Modi said they showcased a "mini India, new India" and represented the real India. Speaking about the idea of "one India", PM Modi said India is a living tradition and an idea.

PM Modi urged the gathered cadets to keep debating about their duties towards the nation and set examples. "Such efforts are what will lead to the creation of a new India," PM Modi said.

PM Modi also spoke about the need to fulfil aspirations and dreams in new India. "We have to ensure that no person in India, no region is left behind. This is also the goal behind the Republic Day parade," the prime minister said.

PM Modi's address came a couple days before India's 71st Republic Day, which will be celebrated on Sunday. The day will be marked by the customary Republic Day parade that will take place on Rajpath on Sunday morning. Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro will be attending the parade as the chief guest.