Emphasising that the collective strength of 400-odd NDA MPs represented a force with “tremendous positive energy” that could help chart a new course for the country, the Prime Minister said: “Let us think big. Let us think far. Let us think above politics.”

While different ministers briefed on the reform policies initiated by the government, on his part Modi stressed on the recently launched cleanliness campaign. Noting that the “Swacch Bharat Abhiyaan” initiative was receiving tremendous response from all sections of society, he asked the NDA MPs to connect with people as they undertook cleanliness efforts in their areas.

Beginning November 14, which marks the 125th birth anniversary of first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Modi urged MPs to visit schools in their areas over a five-day period explaining to children the importance of hygiene. This would send a positive message, he said.

While achieving “Swachh Bharat” was tough, he said just as the people of the country got together to eradicate polio, in the same spirit, this too could be achieved.

“There was an elaborate discussion on many issues which the government has brought to the nation. We had an address by the Prime Minister who talked about cleanliness, various issues before the government, how a common MP can turn things in this country, how a common MP can be a symbol of positive political entity and how the respectability of politicians can be enhanced in the country," BJP general secretary Rajiv Pratap Rudy told reporters after the meeting.

The Prime Minister felicitated BJP president Amit Shah, who in his opening remarks, called upon the MPs to go and explain to the people the work being done by the NDA Government.

Greeting the assembled MPs, senior leader LK Advani said this Diwali was the best he had ever witnessed as the party had risen to unprecedented heights.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley briefed the MPs on Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, coal, gas pricing and diesel deregulation, Rural Development Minister Nitin Gadkari spoke about Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana and Labour Minister Shri Narendra Singh Tomar briefed the MPs on various initiatives taken under the Shramev Jayate Karyakram. Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu gave some tips to the MPs for the upcoming winter session of Parliament.