PM Modi took center stage at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit (HTLS), marking the centenary of the publication. His address celebrated “India’s Economic Strides and Digital Revolution,” underscoring the transformative progress the country has achieved in recent years. From fostering a dynamic start-up ecosystem to revolutionizing financial inclusion with Rupay cards, PM Modi presented a vision of an empowered and self-reliant India.
PM Modi on Entrepreneurial Growth and Risk-Taking Culture
Highlighting the unprecedented growth of the start-up ecosystem, PM Modi remarked, “Earlier starting even one company was considered a risk; there were hardly any start-ups. But now, India has over 1.25 lakh registered start-ups.” This surge, he explained, reflects a cultural shift in risk-taking among Indian youth, backed by government policies designed to nurture innovation and entrepreneurship.
The government’s initiatives, such as Start-Up India and access to funding, have created an environment conducive to innovation, making India the third-largest start-up hub in the world. PM Modi attributed this growth to the resilience and ambition of the nation’s entrepreneurs.
Rupay: India’s Digital Payment Revolution
PM Narendra Modi lauded the widespread adoption of Rupay cards as a milestone in India’s digital payment landscape. He emphasized how this indigenous payment system has empowered millions by making cashless transactions simple and accessible.
“The success of Rupay cards is a testament to India’s commitment to financial inclusion,” PM Modi stated. “Today, we are a global leader in financial technology.” This digital revolution has allowed even the remotest parts of the country to participate in the financial ecosystem, transforming lives and boosting the economy.
Economic Policies Rooted in Public Welfare
In a bold critique of past governance models, PM Modi pointed out the fallacies of focusing on “good economics and ad politics.” Instead, his government prioritizes policies that directly impact citizens’ lives.
He shared significant milestones such as the expansion of LPG gas connections, which soared from 14 crore in 2014 to over 30 crore in 2024. The availability of essential resources, he noted, has transitioned from a state of scarcity to sufficiency.
“Spending big for the people and saving big for the people is our mantra,” PM Modi explained, illustrating how India’s Union Budget expanded from ₹16 Lakh Crore in 2014 to ₹48 Lakh Crore in 2024.
Terrorism, Security, and Resilience
Turning to national security, PM Modi recalled the Emergency and the resilience of the Indian people in opposing it. He contrasted this historical event with modern times, where robust counter-terrorism measures ensure that “terrorists feel unsafe in their homes.”
Citing the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, PM Modi emphasized how India’s approach to security has evolved, ensuring a safer nation for all its citizens.
Tackling Misinformation in the Digital Age
Addressing challenges in the information age, PM Modi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to transparency and progress over divisive politics. He stated, “In this era of social media, we are steering clear of vote-bank politics, focusing instead on progress for the people, by the people.”
A Vision for a Developed India
PM Modi concluded his address with a passionate appeal for Viksit Bharat (Developed India), where growth transcends political gains. He highlighted transformative programs like the nationwide sanitation drive, which has not only improved public health but also created employment opportunities.
“Our vision of development is inclusive, ambitious, and focused on empowering every Indian,” PM Modi affirmed.
Also Read:U.S. Expands H-2B Visa Cap for 2025 to Boost Temporary Workforce