Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday called upon people to root out social distortions like casteism and regionalism. PM Modi, addressing a gathering at a Dussehra event in Delhi's Ram Leela Maidan in Dwarka, also urged people to take 10 pledges, including uplifting the socio-economic status of at least one poor family.

"Today, 'Ravana Dahan' should not be only about burning of an effigy but also about forces which try to divide 'Maa Bharati' in the name of casteism and regionalism," PM Modi said. 

"The festival of Vijayadashami should also be the festival of victory of patriotism over every evil of the nation. We should take a pledge to end evils and discrimination in society. We will move forward with new energy and new resolutions on the path of development. We will together make the 'Shreshtha Bharat," he said. 

On Ram temple, PM Modi said, "Today, we are fortunate to see Lord Ram's temple being constructed on Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya after a long wait. It is a sign of victory of our patience," he said.

During his speech, PM Modi also hailed the Indian Space Research Organization (Isro) and its successful attempt to land on the Moon's lunar surface. He also said that India will soon become the world's third-largest economy. 

"We have reached the Moon. We are going to become the world's third largest economy. We entered the new Parliament building just a few weeks ago. To give representation to women power, Parliament has passed Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam," the PM added. 

(With inputs from agencies)