Tinsukia (Assam) [India], December 13 (ANI): Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said on Saturday that building a true 'Ram Rajya' requires collective commitment, spiritual consciousness and pride in Hindu identity, asserting that Hindu civilisation offers timeless solutions rooted in humanity, tolerance and service.

Speaking at Assam's Tinsukia branch of Bharat Sevashram Sangha, Sarbananda Sonowal said India's ancient Hindu civilisation has continuously guided global human society with spiritual wisdom and moral clarity. At the first event, the Union Minister participated in the inauguration of the newly built Shri Shri Guru Mandir, Shri Shri Shiva Mandir and Shri Shri Krishna Mandir, along with a hostel, at the Tinsukia branch of Bharat Sevashram Sangha, founded by Yugacharya Shrimad Swami Pranavanandaji Maharaj.

'We should feel proud of the light of knowledge and spiritual consciousness that ancient Hindu civilisation has given to humanity over centuries. As children of Mother India, we have been blessed with the opportunity to serve her with devotion and humility. Along with that opportunity comes a responsibility -- to protect nature, preserve life and uphold humanity,' said Sarbananda Sonowal.

The Union Minister was addressing monks and devotees from across the country after inaugurating newly constructed temples dedicated to Guru, Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna, along with a hostel facility, at the Sangha's Tinsukia ashram. The ceremony was marked by spiritual and cultural programmes reflecting the depth and continuity of Sanatan tradition.

Sonowal said Hinduism has imparted values of spirituality, patience, tolerance and compassion, which must be meaningfully applied in public and personal life. 'Using this consciousness responsibly, every Hindu must be committed to building a true Ram Rajya and to the practice of Rashtra Dharma,' he said.

Referring to the Ram Temple, Sonowal said the realisation of a 500-year-old aspiration had instilled renewed pride and confidence among Hindus across the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 'The strength of Hindu civilisation itself is a great power, and its philosophy is a universal philosophy,' he said, adding that Indians should remain grateful for being born in a land that has historically offered answers to some of the world's most complex challenges.

Citing the message of universal brotherhood articulated by Swami Vivekananda, Sonowal said Indians carry a moral responsibility to advance harmony and positivity across societies.

Sonowal commended Bharat Sevashram Sangha for its sustained work in spreading values of service, fraternity and humanity, and for inspiring younger generations with the sanctity and tolerance intrinsic to Hinduism.

'I feel blessed to be present in this sacred and spiritual environment today,' Sonowal said. 'Bharat Sevashram Sangha has consistently motivated the youth with the message of Hindu values, purity and coexistence. We should proudly identify ourselves as Hindus. Only with a good mind can we think well, act well, become good human beings and build a good society.'

The Union Minister also highlighted the historical and economic importance of Tinsukia, describing it as a key commercial centre with a special role in strengthening Assam and contributing to a self-reliant India.

Later in the day, Sonowal attended the golden jubilee valedictory programme and the 24th biennial conference of the Tinsukia District Journalists' Association at Dumduma. Addressing journalists, he described the media as the fourth pillar of democracy and urged it to continue playing a proactive role in social awareness through ethical, constructive and committed journalism.

'From its inception, the media has borne the responsibility of safeguarding the fundamental rights of citizens,' Sarbananda Sonowal said. 'I am confident that it will continue to uphold this tradition in the future as well. A healthy society is built not on conflict, but on coordination and balance, and the media plays a crucial role in conveying this message.'

The Union Minister emphasised the importance of constructive criticism in a democracy, saying public life demands accountability. 'When we accept social responsibility, we need someone to watch over us,' Sonowal said. 'Our conduct and words must be responsible, and when there are shortcomings, a vigilant media must correct us.'

In a candid remark, Sarbananda Sonowal said, 'I always welcome criticism and remain cautious of praise -- because there is no certainty in praise, but sincerity lies in criticism. If the media keeps a watchful eye on people like us in public life, our spine will always remain straight.'

Sonowal warned that the rise of social media has contributed to a decline in social values, placing greater responsibility on traditional media to uphold ethics and credibility.

He said science and technology now influence every sphere of life, but their impact must remain positive.

'Economic growth achieved by damaging the environment is never desirable,' Sonowal said. 'Humanity and technology must move together. If nature remains healthy, humanity will remain healthy. When nature suffers, life cannot remain unaffected.'

Recalling the legacy of Lachit Borphukan, Sonowal urged students and youth to develop excellence across multiple fields in an era defined by competition. 'In the 21st century, our students must demonstrate competence in all areas,' Sonowal said. 'Our goal should be to build an Assamese society that stands among the best in the world and proves its excellence wherever it goes.' (ANI)