Stalwarts Say
I have heard global leaders announce that their country is first. I have not heard of a leader of such a large country saying ‘neighbourhood first’ anywhere in the world at any time in history. It is a wonderful opportunity. I can’t speak for the other neighbouring countries, but for Bhutan, ‘neighbourhood first’ has translated to even deeper friendship between two countries and even more support and assistance from India. It has allowed us to grow our economy, and meet our developmental targets.
Leading a country as big as India—the most populous country in the world—is one of the most difficult jobs. But Excellency, through your leadership and selfless service to 140 crore people, you have earned the love, affection and respect of not only the people of India but also of Bhutan and the entire world.
In you (PM Narendra Modi), I see the manifestation of these three Bodhisattvas – Manjushri, Vajrapani, Avalokiteshvara.
In you, I see the expression of their attributes—wisdom, courage and compassion.
You lead with the profound wisdom to envision the full potential of India.
You lead with the courage to make bold decisions and stand firm in the face of challenges.
Above all, you lead with compassion, always placing the well-being of your people at the heart of your governance.
Your (PM Narendra Modi) leadership has been a beacon of transformation and unprecedented progress. Initiatives like Make in India, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Digital India, Skill India, Startup India, Swachh Bharat, Jal Shakti Abhiyan, PM Awas Yojana, Gati Shakti, Kisan Samman Nidhi… these are some of your initiatives, your gifts to the nation, that have rescued over 30 crore people from the scourge of poverty and propelled India’s economy to new heights. Under your leadership, India is poised to become Viksit Bharat… And Viksit Bharat—a powerful and prosperous Bharat—will be your legacy, Sir.
When it comes to manufacturing for a consumer market, there is no better place than India for nearshoring. Honourable Prime Minister Modi’s initiative “Make in India” for the world is truly working. The country’s roadways and railways are expanding and witnessing an increase in capacity and efficiency. Looking ahead, industrial parks and free trade zones near ports will be key to sustaining India’s trade momentum as it explores new markets.
The future of the world is in India. I have no doubt about that. India is a rising economic power and a major global power. As long as it continues to reform and invests in education and infra, I sincerely think that India is the next big power. This is also led by the vibrancy, innovation, and entrepreneurship building in the country.
India is one of the most important markets for us globally. We have been here for 120 years, and been part of the transition from 2G to 5G. Today, we have 20,000 colleagues in this country... If you look at the Digital India programme, it has been built around connectivity. 4G played a big role there, and now it is migrating to 5G. India has been able to digitize rapidly, and we see a very exciting future here.
