NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his vision for transforming India into a developed nation by the year 2047 during his recent address at the 22nd Hindustan Times Leadership Summit. He emphasized the importance of public trust in the government, the belief of average citizens, and a shift in social mindsets to fuel this ambitious goal.
During his speech, Modi celebrated the 100th anniversary of Hindustan Times, recalling its inauguration by Mahatma Gandhi in 1924. To honor this milestone, he unveiled a special postage stamp.
The Prime Minister highlighted the achievements of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), focusing on the government’s commitment to social welfare and public service without resorting to politics centered around votes. He stated that the aim is to achieve the status of a developed nation by the time India celebrates its 100th year of independence on August 15, 2047.
Modi spoke about a guiding principle of his administration: investing in job creation and foster an environment of dignity for all citizens. He encouraged people to aim for excellence and world-class standards.
Reflecting on India’s journey from liberation to independence, he noted, “The spirit of the ordinary person has always driven our progress.” He expressed confidence that the 21st century could belong to India if everyone works diligently towards this goal.
He cited various achievements of his government that have strengthened the confidence of the Indian populace and encouraged them to take calculated risks. In the past, he noted, economic discussions often sidelined public welfare, leading to a lack of trust in the government. Modi believes his administration has successfully restored that trust.
“Everything we do is for the benefit of the people, and our ultimate aim is a prosperous, developed India,” he said. He further explained that public and self-confidence directly contributes to national development.
Discussing the historical context, Modi pointed out that ancient India thrived as a center of global trade. However, post-independence, this entrepreneurial spirit dwindled due to a lack of governmental support. Recently, he noted, there has been a resurgence in risk-taking among citizens, particularly in the startup ecosystem, which has now grown to over 125,000.
He shared heartwarming examples of individuals making a difference, including a woman who invested in a tractor to support her family financially. “When the lower and middle classes take risks, real change happens,” he remarked.
To illustrate his focus on impactful investments, Modi cited the government’s initiatives to build toilets, which not only provide essential services but have also helped local economies grow by creating jobs. He also highlighted the rise in household access to LPG cylinders, increasing from 140 million to 300 million in a decade.
“Ten years ago, accessing a gas cylinder was complicated. Now, we have made it simple, and this has empowered many households,” Modi explained. He also discussed the widespread use of mobile phones and the convenience of cashless transactions, stating that technology has boosted self-respect across all social classes.
The Prime Minister noted that the national budget has increased significantly, enabling substantial investments in hospitals, schools, roads, and public infrastructure. With programs like Ayushman Bharat, significant savings have been realized, enhancing the lives of millions.
Looking ahead, Modi stressed the need for collective efforts from both the government and citizens to elevate India on the world stage. He urged for continuous improvement in every sector, advocating for a commitment to global standards, and expressed hope that the media would play a vital role in this mission for excellence.
