Virtual Meeting to commemorate the International Day of Conscience

Hosted by the Ambassador of Bahrain to  Oman

April  4, 2024

Remarks by Ambassador Amit Narang

Excellencies,

I am honored to participate in today’s event to commemorate the International Day of Conscience. I congratulate and extend my greetings to the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the Sultanate of Oman H.E. Dr. Juma Ahmed Al Kaabi for this initiative and thank him for his kind invitation.

At the outset, I would like to pay tribute to His Royal Highness the late Sheikh Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain for his visionary initiative in establishing this observance through the International UN Day. 

The United Nations resolution 73/329, which adopted the International Day of Conscience, underscores the collective determination of the global community to uphold the principles of  peace, tolerance, inclusion, understanding and solidarity, in order to build a sustainable world.

The concept of Conscience is rooted in Indian culture. The concept of conscience finds resonance in the teachings contained in the Bhagavad Gita where Krishna imparts wisdom to Arjuna on the battlefield, emphasizing the importance of following one's conscience in the face of moral dilemmas. He teaches Arjuna about the righteousness of performing one's duty, what we call dharma in India, with unwavering devotion and integrity, even in the midst of adversity. This message underscores the significance of listening to the inner voice of conscience and acting in accordance with moral principles, regardless of external pressures or temptations. Throughout Indian history, leaders and sages have drawn inspiration from such teachings, guiding their actions and decisions with a deep sense of ethical responsibility and conscience.

The celebration of the International Day of Conscience also resonates with the ethos of Ahimsa, or non-violence, propagated by the great Mahatma Gandhi. His teachings remind us that true conscience is rooted in compassion, understanding, and a deep sense of responsibility towards our fellow beings and the world we inhabit.

India under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has always seen conscience as the cornerstone of ethical leadership, emphasizing its role in shaping policies and governance for the betterment of society. 

Prime Minister Modi envisions a nation where respect for diversity, empathy, and moral integrity are integral to our social fabric.

In the present-day world, characterized by multiple crises such as conflicts, and humanitarian challenges, the significance of conscience-driven leadership is ever more important. 

Today as we celebrate the International Day of Conscience let us pledge to work together towards building a world where we can collectively promote peace, tolerance, inclusion, understanding and solidarity, in order to build a sustainable world of peace, solidarity and harmony for everyone.

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