Venkaiah Naidu, Vice-President of India while addressing the gatherings in an event organized by CBCI at the Community Hall of the Sacred Heart Cathedral, New Delhi, highlighted the significant contributions made by the Christian community in India for building a new India. He complimented Catholic community as peace-loving and said that it contributes immensely to nation-building.

As reported by vaticannews.va, Venkaiah Naidu remarked that “People all over the world irrespective of caste, creed or nationality celebrate Christmas with great joy and gaiety. Jesus is the Son of God and He brings Good news to all the people, cultures and nations. His message is the message of peace.” Further, he added, “Christmas is the festival of love, joy and sharing. It is a time to renew our commitment to love  and serve our families communities and society; to be just and transparent in our dealings; to promote social and economic inclusion of all; to promote lasting peace between  people of different  religions and cultures and to promote sustainable development.”

The 68-yr old leaders who holds the second highest position in the India also highlighted the significance of education in the country and termed it as “the most important tool for social transformation” and emphasized that “In this regard, Christians maintain best educational institutions in the country that create awareness about the need of education for the needy.” The Vice- President of India concluded his remarks by reminding that “Religion has nothing to do with terror. Terror is the enemy of humanity.”