Prime Minister Narendra Modi heaped praise on the Christian community on Monday for its role in giving direction to the society and sense of service, and said the country proudly acknowledges its contribution.

In an interaction with the members of the community at his residence here on Christmas, Modi recalled his old, intimate and warm relations with Christians since his days as the Gujarat chief minister and said they have always been at the forefront in serving the poor and deprived.

Many thinkers and leaders from the community were part of the country's freedom struggle, he said, adding that educational and healthcare institutions run by the community continue to make a big contribution across India.

Modi said Jesus Christ's life message was centered on compassion and service, and he worked for an inclusive society where justice was for all.

These values are serving as a "guiding light" in his government's development journey, the prime minister said and noted that the Upanishads, considered the fount of Hindi philosophy, also focused on realising the absolute truth like the Bible.

Some leading Christian community members also spoke on the occasion and praised different initiatives of the Modi government.

In his remarks, Modi said people can focus on their shared values and heritage to move forward, and the spirit of cooperation and coordination, coupled with the spirit of "sabka prayas", can take the country to a new height.

(With inputs from agencies)