Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the world trusts India for everything from affordable medicines to skilled talent, highlighting the country's growing role in addressing global challenges. He said India gave the world the concept of zero but never sought credit or royalties for it.
Addressing the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in Delhi, being held in the national capital for the first time, Modi delivered a 25-minute speech highlighting India's contributions to digital technology, vaccine supplies, economic reforms and international cooperation.
The three-day event will conclude on October 15. This year's theme is focused on redefining the new sources of power in a changing world.
Government Should Empower Citizens, Says Modi
Modi said the government has authority, but its objective should not be to make citizens dependent on the system. Instead, it should empower them to become self-reliant.
He said India was following this approach by creating opportunities for its citizens and strengthening their ability to contribute to the country's growth.
India Records 7.8% Growth, Forex Reserves Cross $700 Billion
Highlighting India's economic performance, the Prime Minister said the country had recorded growth of 7.8%, while its foreign exchange reserves had crossed $700 billion.
He said India's confidence was at an all-time high and pointed to reforms undertaken by the government to improve the business environment.
Modi cited the introduction of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code and measures to decriminalise minor business-related offences. He said reforms were a matter of conviction for his government.
India Believes in Connecting and Empowering Others
The Prime Minister said several international organisations had been established throughout history, each pursuing its own interests. In contrast, India had taken initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and the Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) movement to promote cooperation on global challenges.
He said India's approach was based on bringing countries together and building partnerships rather than pursuing power for its own sake.
“Power is meant to empower others,” Modi said, stressing that India stood for reliability and stability in an increasingly uncertain world.
Modi said India's role becomes particularly important when the world needs affordable medicines, skilled professionals or a dependable partner during difficult times.
“When the world needs affordable medicines, they come from India. When the world needs talent, it trusts India's youth,” he said.
The Prime Minister added that whenever the world needed a steady pillar of support, India stepped forward and fulfilled its responsibilities.
He said India's growing global contribution reflected its commitment to cooperation, stability and empowering others rather than seeking recognition for its achievements.
