Only Congress can unite and show direction to country: Rahul Gandhi

Taking on the present central government, which is run by BJP-led NDA, Rahul said: "There is a difference between the BJP and the Congress. The BJP spreads hatred while we (Congress) share love, brotherhood."

In his brief speech, the Congress President has taken a dig at the ruling BJP for non-performance in several sectors.

He has accused the Modi government of failing to provide the livelihood to poor people, youth and the farmers.

"When the youth, farmers look at Modi, they do not find any answer. The country has become tired in a way" he added.

With a year to go for the General Elections, Rahul has left no opportunity to pitch in the Congress' ideology of tolerance towards all castes, religions and all kinds of people.

He said: "The country is for all. It is for all religions, castes and all forms of people."

Rahul, who became the Congress President in 2017, said his role is to show a direction to the party as well as the country.

Invoking the party symbol, Rahul said: "The hand symbol of the party is meant to unite all countrymen and take the country towards progress. Thanks to all the senior members of the party for fighting for this symbol for so long."

The first day of the plenary session has been attended by Congress Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and other senior members of the party.

This is the first plenary session which is being held under President Rahul Gandhi.