Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated his vision for a developed India, underscoring the significant role of the nation’s youth in driving economic growth and innovation. He emphasized that India stands at a pivotal moment, with the potential for a quantum leap in its development trajectory, particularly as it boasts the youngest population globally for the foreseeable future.
Modi highlighted the dual focus on economic and ecological prosperity, asserting that a developed India would create abundant opportunities for quality education and employment. He stated, “Global agencies recognize the youth’s potential to significantly boost India’s GDP,” reinforcing the idea that the nation’s young workforce is a vital asset in achieving economic goals.
Drawing inspiration from renowned thinkers such as Maharshi Aurobindo, Gurudev Tagore, and Homi J. Bhabha, Modi praised the capabilities of Indian youth, noting their leadership roles in major global corporations. He expressed confidence that the upcoming 25 years, referred to as ‘Amrit Kaal,’ would be crucial for realizing the dream of a developed India, with the youth at the forefront of this transformation.
PM Modi pointed to the impressive achievements of Indian youth in various sectors, including startups, manufacturing, digital innovation, and sports. He remarked that the nation’s youth have propelled India into the top three countries for startups, showcasing their potential to make the seemingly impossible a reality.
Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering the youth through education and skill development. He announced that a new university is being established every week, with new Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) set up daily. Additionally, he mentioned the opening of an Atal Tinkering Lab every three days and the establishment of two new colleges each day.
The Prime Minister noted the growth of prestigious educational institutions in India, highlighting that the number of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) has reached 23, while the number of Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs) has increased from 9 to 25 in the last decade. The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have also expanded from 13 to 21. Furthermore, he pointed out a threefold increase in the number of All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and a near doubling of medical colleges over the past ten years.
Modi emphasized that the quality and quantity of educational institutions in India are improving, with the number of higher education institutes listed in the QS rankings rising from nine in 2014 to 46 today. He asserted that the strengthening of educational infrastructure is a crucial foundation for achieving a developed India.
“The goal of a developed India by 2047 requires daily targets and consistent efforts,” Modi urged, expressing optimism that India is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy. He highlighted the significant progress made in poverty alleviation, stating that 250 million people have been lifted out of poverty over the past decade, with aspirations for the nation to become poverty-free in the near future.
In terms of sustainability, Modi outlined ambitious targets for renewable energy, aiming for 500 gigawatts of capacity by the end of the decade and achieving net-zero carbon emissions for the railway sector by 2030. He reiterated that these efforts are integral to the vision of a developed India, where both the economy and the environment can thrive.
Prime Minister Modi’s address showed a hopeful picture of India’s future, driven by the energy and innovation of its youth. He called for collective action and commitment to realize the potential of a developed India, where opportunities abound for the younger generation to contribute to the nation’s growth and prosperity.
