The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh has welcomed the decision of the United Nations to observe October 2nd as International Day of Non-Violence.

In a Statement, he said, "I am extremely happy that the United Nations will henceforth observe Gandhi Jayanti, October 2 as International Day of Non-Violence each year, following a unanimous decision of the General Assembly of United Nations yesterday. This decision originates in a declaration of the International Conference on Peace, Non-violence and Empowerment: Gandhian Philosophy in the 21st Century, convened in New Delhi in January this year commemorating the centenary of the Satyagraha Movement launched by Mahatma Gandhi. This is a tribute by the world community to the Father of our Nation. The universal relevance of Gandhiji's message of non-violence is more important today than ever before since nations across the world continue to grapple with the threat of conflict, violence and terrorism. This is also an occasion for all of us, the people of India, to re-dedicate ourselves to the ideals and values of Mahatma Gandhi, which shall continue to be our guiding light."