In a speech to the media when he went to open the Parliament’s Budget Session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a strong appeal for constructive governance. Underlining India’s increasing world recognition, the PM claimed that the world now looks to the “temple of democracy” for capability and stability.
A Message to the Global Community
The Prime Minister said India's democratic processes are being observed and respected around the world. He made the current era a key moment for the country to showcase its commitment to democratic principles.
"India's democracy and demography is a big hope to the world today. It is an opportunity," PM Modi said, "to send a message to the global community through this temple of democracy that we can deliver a message of our capability, of our dedication to democracy, of honoring the decisions made through democratic processes."
The Reform Express vs. Obstruction
On clear terms, PM Modi told the Opposition it was clear that the country has gone beyond long-stopped concerns about the situation that will never be fixed this time, it is heading straight into the long-term problems and solutions. He called the government’s momentum the “Reform Express” and called on all Members of Parliament to pitch in positively.
- Solution-Oriented Politics: “It’s no time for obstruction. It is time for solution,” the PM said, emphasizing each MP should now speed up the era of important solutions for citizens.
- Human-Centric Development: He reiterated that while India will grapple and adapt to new technologies, all decision-making at the core of governance remains "human-centric."
Focus on Last-Mile Delivery
The Prime Minister said that for any democracy to succeed, its benefits must ultimately be felt by the most isolated individual. And he called on Parliament to progress down the road of “last-mile delivery” in order for the schemes and reforms unveiled in the “temple of democracy” to become material progress for the poor, the young and the farmers.
The "Mother of All Deals"
The PM also singled out the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, which has just been signed as the "mother of all deals". He also said that this is a 25% of world GDP agreement which is a manifestation of a "self-confident India" and will create tremendous opportunities for our aspirational youth and manufacturers.
As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman looks forward to the Economic Survey today and the Union Budget on 1 February, the Prime Minister's address stands for a 'golden opportunity' where the young MPs have a chance to see and help build a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
