Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Economic Times World Leaders Forum (WLF) on August 31, 2024, in New Delhi, engaging with a distinguished audience of business leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. The forum, centered around the theme of "Leadership for Global Prosperity," served as a platform for discussing India's rapid economic progress and its role in an increasingly complex global landscape.
Modi highlighted India's remarkable economic growth, noting a 90% expansion over the last decade, significantly outpacing the global average of 35%. He credited this to sustained reforms and assured continued commitment to growth. He emphasized that India's economic success is intertwined with global prosperity, urging collective efforts towards advancing the nation's growth. "In India's prosperity lies the world's prosperity," he stated, calling on Indians worldwide to contribute to the country's development.
The Prime Minister underscored his government's mantra of "Reform, Perform, and Transform," emphasizing its impact on improving the lives of millions. He noted that 250 million people have risen out of poverty, creating a "Neo-Middle Class" that is now a driving force in India's progress. Modi highlighted the government's commitment to good governance and service to the people, fostering new beliefs and aspirations among citizens.
Infrastructure development was a key focus, with Modi highlighting projects like the launch of new Vande Bharat trains and the expansion of metro systems in cities such as Pune, Thane, and Bangalore. He emphasized the government's transformative approach to infrastructure, aimed at enhancing the ease of living for all citizens.
Modi articulated India's aspiration to become a global manufacturing hub, emphasizing support for MSMEs and the success of Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes. He noted the ongoing revolution in the country to achieve this goal, with initiatives like plug-and-play industrial parks and economic corridors. The Prime Minister also discussed the government's commitment to making India a hub of knowledge, research, and innovation, with significant investments in education and health.
Recognizing the dynamic nature of the world, Modi highlighted the adaptability of the Indian government's policies and strategies. He emphasized a focus on the future, preparing the country for the challenges and opportunities ahead with initiatives like the Green Hydrogen Mission, Quantum Mission, Semiconductor Mission, and Deep Ocean Mission. Green energy will be a cornerstone of India's growth, with a target of achieving a green energy capacity of 5 million tonnes by 2030.
Modi stressed India's commitment to inclusive development for all, especially the Global South. He highlighted India's support for African nations and its advocacy for the Global South during its G20 presidency.
In his concluding remarks, Modi reaffirmed India's resolve to become a developed nation by 2047. He called on citizens and stakeholders to contribute to this journey, emphasizing the importance of innovation, inclusion, and international cooperation in achieving this goal. He urged global leaders, businesses, and citizens to join India in this endeavor, stating that "A prosperous India can pave the way for global prosperity".
