New Delhi, June 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Republic Summit on Monday, highlighting India’s unique resilience. He stated that India is not a nation that reacts impulsively to fleeting events.
He emphasized that India has experienced both development and destruction, with a collective memory spanning centuries. Modi asserted that the actions taken today are shaping the future for the next 1,000 years, marking a significant guarantee for the world. India is not only a rapidly developing economy but also a reliable global power. With swift growth, India’s credibility on the international stage continues to rise. Upon returning from the recent G7 summit, he noted that leaders worldwide acknowledge and appreciate that ‘Nation First’ is the guiding principle for India today.
Modi remarked that India is both a rapidly growing and a trustworthy economy. He shared that every leader and nation understands that ‘Nation First’ is the most significant mantra for contemporary India. Recently, the government celebrated 12 years in office. The achievements over this period reflect a consistent commitment to the principle of ‘Nation First’ in every decision and effort. Initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission, Make in India, and promoting local products have succeeded because the citizens prioritized their duties to the nation. He expressed gratitude to the citizens for their contributions.
The Prime Minister noted that the ‘Nation First’ principle has profoundly influenced government policies and decision-making processes. A key example is the transformation of tribal areas, which had long suffered from Maoist terrorism, disrupting essential government services. Despite numerous governments and generations passing, hope remained elusive for local populations. Between 2004 and 2014, over 17,000 violent incidents occurred due to Maoist terrorism, claiming more than 7,000 lives. However, the complete eradication of Maoist terrorism from these regions is a remarkable achievement that should not be underestimated.
He pointed out that even in the 21st century, terrorists had denied basic facilities to tribal areas. Government vehicles could not pass without fear of gunfire. Many governments came and went, and it seemed that violence would persist indefinitely. Modi expressed his desire to discuss over 100 districts and more than 500 blocks that had lagged in development for years. Previous administrations had labeled these areas as backward. His government accepted the challenge to transform these regions, instilling aspirations for progress. Reflecting this new approach, they were renamed aspirational districts and blocks, which are now driving state development. A significant portion of the population previously lived in poverty, but in recent years, 250 million people have escaped poverty, with aspirational districts playing a crucial role.
He noted that areas once affected by Naxalism are now witnessing new rays of development. Over 9,500 mobile towers have been established, providing connectivity to around 45,000 villages. Approximately 75,000 banking correspondents and over 6,000 new post offices have been set up in Naxal-affected districts. This transformation is a testament to India’s true achievement.
Modi highlighted that in 2014, about 2.8 million people used the metro daily. Today, that number has surged to approximately 12.8 million daily commuters. Additionally, high-speed trains like Namo Bharat, Vande Bharat, and Amrit Bharat are now connecting various regions of the country. The number of airports has doubled in recent years, offering more opportunities for the middle class to travel by air. Over the past 12 years, India has turned despair into hope, which is a significant source of satisfaction.
He concluded by stating that in 2014, obtaining a home loan meant facing double-digit interest rates. Today, banks offer home loans at rates of 7-8%. Previously, securing a loan felt like a battle; now, it is accessible from the comfort of home. Reducing poverty is not just about welfare; it is a narrative of expanding opportunities and inspiring new aspirations. The government has worked at every level to ease the lives of the middle class.
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