QuoteThe government exists, and should exist, for the benefit of the people, the Janata Janardan: PM Narendra Modi
QuoteOur government has done more for states, regardless of the party they are ruled by, than any government since Independence: PM Modi
QuoteThe world is interconnected & interdependent, be it tech. or trade, in movement of people or capital & in research & innovation: PM
QuoteIn a democracy, there will be parties with their own policies & priorities. This is a basic feature of a vibrant democracy: PM

You have completed two years as Prime Minister. What do you consider the biggest gain for the government? Is there anything that you feel the government could have achieved but has not yet — any regrets?

From my point of view what we need is not the government’s gain but the country’s gain. The government exists, and should exist, for the benefit of the people, the Janata Janardan. When we assess the last 25 months, we have to do so in comparison to the period before that. When we took office, there was a pervasive atmosphere of gloom and pessimism. Newspapers were filled with scams and their aftermath. In the preceding months, share prices had fallen and India’s stock in the global market place had also fallen. Inflation was high. Above all, the common citizen felt helpless. Today, all of these have disappeared along with the previous government. There is belief and there is hope. A strong foundation has been laid for a takeoff. This transformation from gloom to confidence in the future and from economic decline to sustained growth has the potential to transform India.


As regards regrets, I am not sure if my answer will be to your liking. Before and during the parliamentary elections, there was a section of the media which strongly hoped that we would not win. My regret is that in the last two years, I have not been able to convince or persuade that section regarding our point of view. My challenge is to win over these sceptics, and persuade them of our sincerity and good intentions.

Countries across the world appear to have become more inward-looking; Brexit is one of the signs. Do you think global trade, including movement of people, will suffer in the near future?

The world is witnessing several crucial developments. It is important to view them in their correct perspective, and separate local drivers from regional and global impulses. For centuries it has been clear that for each country its own interests are supreme. It is with supremacy of these interests in mind that each country seeks to build its externalities and connect with other countries in the world. Global linkages can be strengthened by harnessing the interests of other countries. Today, whether it is technology or trade, in movement of human resources or capital and in research and innovation, we live in an interconnected and interdependent world. And, the nations naturally keep their interests in mind even as they forge bonds of economic cooperation with other countries. Regarding Brexit, it is a subject that requires in-depth examination. In this regard, we will take correct decisions keeping in mind our interests.

You have often talked about cooperative federalism. But there has been criticism that you are not accommodating enough of other parties, and other party-ruled states. Delhi, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, have complaints against the Union government. Wouldn’t you like to them along on the path to development?

If you look at the facts, you will find that this government has done more for states, regardless of the party they are ruled by, than any government since Independence. The recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission led to an increase in the states’ share of central taxes from 32% to 42%. Despite advice to the contrary from many civil servants, we decided to accept the recommendations. Initially, some of our critics said the increase would be offset by reduction in centrally sponsored schemes. The figures for fiscal year 2015-16 are now available and they show clearly that even after adjusting for the unavoidable cuts in centrally sponsored schemes, the overall transfer from the Centre to the states has increased by over 21% in 2015-16. The total additional resources transferred to the states, after adjusting for the reduction in centrally sponsored schemes, was nearly Rs 1,44,800 crore. The increased devolution has been made strictly in accordance with the recommendations of the Finance Commission, a non-partisan body appointed during the tenure of the previous government. To give you some examples, the net increase in resources transferred to West Bengal was 37%, to Kerala 38%, to Telangana 25%, to Himachal Pradesh 49% to Uttar Pradesh 22% and to Karnataka 21%. I am proud of my government’s record in treating opposition-ruled states as full and as equal partners in ‘Team India’.

Let me give you another concrete example. The sharp reduction in the Centre’s share of taxes made by the Finance Commission necessitated redesign of centrally sponsored schemes. In fact the Commission had recommended their scrapping. Since Independence, the structure and funding pattern of centrally sponsored schemes have always been decided by the Centre unilaterally. This time, we constituted a sub-group of chief ministers under NITI and gave them the task of evolving a new pattern. This sub-group, which included the chief ministers of Kerala, Uttar Pradesh and Telangana among others, came up with unanimous recommendations and we accepted the recommendations as soon as they were presented. There can be no greater testimony to our commitment to taking along all the states with us on the path of development.

China has constantly created hindrances to India’s interests, be it in trade or more recently NSG. While New Delhi can look Beijing in the eye, how can you leverage your strengths to discourage China from making such adverse interventions?

Your question suggests that international relations are a zero-sum game. I believe that nations can move forward in their own interest in several areas while managing differences in other areas. No country is an island unto itself today. We have to work together. India and China are neighbours, important players in Asia and increasingly significant actors on the global stage. We need to work together more, understand each other’s interests and priorities and be sensitive to mutual concerns and interests. But, I also firmly stand by what our strategic interests are and will continue to pursue them strongly.

How important is winning Uttar Pradesh for you and for your party? Would you look at the verdict as a referendum on the central government?

Uttar Pradesh has its own importance. Keeping in mind the conditions that have been created in the state in the last 15 years, the only way to save the state is through development. And only the BJP can guarantee development. Fifteen years of misrule has resulted in the state declining not just in the field of education, but also in industrial development. In the ranking of the composite educational development index — U-DISE — Uttar Pradesh was at the bottom among all states and Union territories in 2014-15. This ranking was based on four parameters: accessibility of schemes for the people, infrastructure, teachers, and outcomes. So this means Uttar Pradesh is in bad shape on each of these parameters. Our strategy will be to take Uttar Pradesh on the path of development. The Union government has especially approved projects worth more than Rs 1 lakh crore for Uttar Pradesh. Out of this, Rs 68,000 crore is for roads, and Rs 27,000 crore for railway, power and petroleum projects.

We must pay attention to balanced industrial development in the state. Eastern Uttar Pradesh cannot be neglected. It is an area that is economically, educationally, and industrially backward. To reduce this imbalance, we are investing significantly in the region for the Dedicated Freight Corridor project. Eighteen nodes are proposed along the Dedicated Freight Corridor, which will spur development. The corridor will also provide a boost to chemical, cement, fertiliser and other industries. The Union government is also working to restart the fertiliser plant in Gorakhpur at a cost of Rs 6,000 crore. A new AIIMS is also proposed in eastern Uttar Pradesh. These steps will transform the industrial and economic landscape of eastern Uttar Pradesh.

You have often expressed your exasperation with the Opposition as far as pushing the legislative agenda of the government is concerned. Do you really think you can still work out an amicable formula with the Opposition for meeting your targets?

In a democracy, there will always be parties with their own policies, their own strategies and their own priorities. This is a basic feature of a vibrant democracy. But along with their priorities and compulsions, all parties also have to keep in mind the larger good and keep the country above party considerations. It is for this reason that I had said in Parliament that even in the Lok Sabha, though in arithmetic terms we have a majority of our own, it will always be our intention to seek consensus and proceed on the basis of general agreement. I am happy to see that in two years of this Parliament, it has been extremely productive. Apart from the completion of much legislative work, we have also witnessed healthy debates on topics of national importance ranging from the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Ambedkar, to drought, to the attack in Pathankot. These debates took place in a healthy spirit.

In terms of the legislative agenda, most parties have cooperated with the government in the national interest. In your question, you have lumped together the entire Opposition. The fact is that barring one party, the Opposition has been constructive in pursuing the larger national interest. The whole nation knows that it is only one party which, unable to adjust to the reality of its defeat, has made obstructionism its response to every issue, regardless of the negative consequences for the nation.

Source: Indian Express

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हर भारतीय का खून खौल रहा है: ‘मन की बात’ में पीएम मोदी

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त्रिनिदाद & टोबैगो में भारतीय समुदाय की यात्रा, साहस का प्रतीक है: पीएम मोदी
July 04, 2025
QuoteThe journey of the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago is about courage: PM
QuoteI am sure you all welcomed the return of Ram Lalla to Ayodhya after 500 years with great joy: PM
QuoteThe Indian diaspora is our pride: PM
QuoteAt the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, I announced several initiatives to honour and connect with the Girmitiya community across the world: PM
QuoteIndia's success in space is global in spirit: PM

Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar Ji
Members of the Cabinet,
All the Dignitaries present today,
Members of the Indian diaspora,

Ladies & Gentlemen,

Namaskar !
Seeta Ram !
Jai Shri Ram !

Can you mark something… what a coincidence!

It is a matter of immense pride and joy for me to be with all of you this evening. I thank Prime Minister Kamla Ji for her wonderful hospitality and kind words.

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I arrived a short while ago in this beautiful land of Humming Birds.And, my very first engagement is with the Indian community here. It feels completely natural. After all, we are part of one family. I thank you for your warmth and affection.

Friends,

I know the story of the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago is about courage. The circumstances your ancestors faced could have broken even the strongest of spirits. But they faced hardships with hope. They met problems with persistence.

They left the Ganga and Yamuna behind but carried the Ramayan in their hearts. They left their soil, but not their soul. They were not just migrants. They were messengers of a timeless civilization. Their contributions have benefitted this country - culturally, economically and spiritually. Just look at the impact that you have all had on this beautiful nation.

Kamla Persad-Bissessar Ji - as the first woman Prime Minister of this country. Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo Ji - as the female President. Late Shri Basdeo Pandey, the son of a farmer, rose to become Prime Minister and a respected global leader. Eminent math scholar Rudranath Capildeo, Music Icon Sundar Popo, Cricketing talent Daren Ganga, and Sewdass Sadhu, whose devotion built the Temple in the Sea. The list of achievers goes on.

You, the children of Girmitiyas, are not defined by struggle anymore. You are defined by your success, your service, and your values. Honestly, there must be something magical in the "doubles” and "dal poori” — because you have doubled the success of this great nation!

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Friends,

When I last visited 25 years ago, we all admired the cover drives and pull shots of Lara. Today, it is Sunil Narine and Nicholas Pooran who ignite the same excitement in the hearts of our youth. Between then and now, our friendship has grown even stronger.

Benaras, Patna, Kolkata, Delhi may be cities in India. But they are also names of streets here. Navratra, Mahashivratri, Janmasthmi are celebrated here with joy, spirit and pride. Chowtal and Baithak Gana continue to thrive here.

I can see the warmth of many familiar faces. And I see curiosity in the bright eyes of a younger generation - keen to know and grow together. Truly, our bonds go well beyond geography and generations.

Friends,

I know of your deep faith in Prabhu Shri Ram.

एक सौ अस्सी साल बीतल हो, मन न भुलल हो, भजन राम के, हर दिल में गूंजल हो ।

The Ram-Leelas in Sangre Grande and Dow Village are said to be truly unique. Shri Ram Charit Manas says,

राम धामदा पुरी सुहावनि।
लोक समस्त बिदित अति पावनि।।

It means, the sacred city of Prabhu Shri Ram is so beautiful that its glory is spread across the world. I am sure you all welcomed the return of Ram Lalla to Ayodhya after 500 years with great joy.

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We remember, you had sent holy water and Shilas for building the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. I have also brought something here with a similar sense of devotion. It is my honour to bring a replica of Ram Mandir and some water from the river Sarayu in Ayodhya.

जन्मभूमि मम पुरी सुहावनि ।
उत्तर दिसि बह सरजू पावनि ।।
जा मज्जन ते बिनहिं प्रयासा ।
मम समीप नर पावहिं बासा ।।

Prabhu Shri Ram says that the glory of Ayodhya springs from the holy Sarayu. Whoever takes a dip in its water, finds eternal union with Shri Ram himself.

सरयू जी और पवित्र संगम का ये जल, आस्था का अमृत है। ये वो प्रवाहमान धारा है, जो हमारे मूल्यों को...हमारे संस्कारों को हमेशा जीवंत रखती है।

You all know that earlier this year, the world’s largest spiritual gathering, the Maha Kumbh took place. I have the honour to carry water from the Maha Kumbh also with me. I request Kamla ji to offer the holy waters of the Sarayu River and Maha Kumbh to the Ganga Dhara here. May these holy waters bless the people of Trinidad and Tobago.

Friends,

We deeply value the strength and support of our diaspora. With over 35 million people spread across the world, the Indian diaspora is our pride. As I have often said, each one of you is a Rashtradoot – an Ambassador of India’s values, culture and heritage.

This year, when we hosted the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas in Bhubaneshwar, Her Excellency President Christine Carla Kangaloo ji was our Chief Guest. A few years ago, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar Ji had honoured us with her presence.

At the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas, I announced several initiatives to honour and connect with the Girmitiya community across the world. We are mapping the past and bringing people closer for a bright future. We are actively working on creating a comprehensive database of the Girmitiya Community. Documenting the villages and cities in India from which their ancestors migrated, identifying the places where they have settled, studying and preserving the legacy of the Girmitiya ancestors, and working to organise World Girmitiya Conferences regularly. This will support the deep and historic ties with our brothers and sisters in Trinidad and Tobago as well.

Today, I am happy to announce that OCI cards will now be given to the sixth generation of the Indian diaspora in Trinidad & Tobago. You are not just connected by blood or surname. You are connected by belonging. India looks out you, India welcomes you, and India embraces you.

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Friends,

प्रधानमंत्री कमला जी के पूर्वज बिहार के बक्सर में रहा करते थे। कमला जी वहां जाकर भी आई हैं.... लोग इन्हें बिहार की बेटी मानते हैं

People in India consider Prime Minister Kamla ji as the daughter of Bihar.

यहां उपस्थित अनेक लोगों के पूर्वज बिहार से ही आए थे। बिहार की विरासत... भारत के साथ ही दुनिया का भी गौरव है। लोकतंत्र हो, राजनीति हो, कूटनीति हो, हायर एजुकेशन हो...बिहार ने सदियों पहले दुनिया को ऐसे अनेक विषयों में नई दिशा दिखाई थी। मुझे विश्वास है, 21वीं सदी की दुनिया के लिए भी बिहार की धरती से, नई प्रेरणाएं, नए अवसर निकलेंगे।

Like Kamla ji, there are many people here whose roots lie in Bihar. The heritage of Bihar is a matter of pride for all of us.

Friends,

I am sure everyone among you feels proud when India grows. For New India, even the sky is not the limit. You all must have cheered when India’s Chandrayaan landed on the moon. The place where it landed, we have named it Shiv Shakti point.

You must have also heard the news recently. An Indian astronaut is on board the International Space Station even as we speak. We are now working on a manned space mission – Gaganyaan. The time is not far when an Indian will walk on the moon and India will have its own space station.

हम अब तारों को सिर्फ गिनते नहीं हैं...आदित्य मिशन के रूप में...उनके पास तक जाने का प्रयास करते हैं।हमारे लिए अब चंदा मामा दूर के नहीं हैं ।हम अपनी मेहनत से असंभव को भी संभव बना रहे हैं।

India’s achievements in space are not just ours. We are sharing its fruits with the rest of the world.

Friends,

India is the fastest growing major economy in the world. Soon, we will be among the top three economies of the world. The fruits of India’s growth and progress are reaching the most needy.

भारत ने दिखाया है कि गरीबों को सशक्त करके... Empower करके... गरीबी को हराया जा सकता है। पहली बार करोड़ों लोगों में विश्वास जागा है, कि भारत गरीबी से मुक्त हो सकता है।

The World Bank has noted that India has lifted over 250 million people above extreme poverty in the last decade. India’s growth is being powered by our innovative and energetic youth.

Today, India is the third largest startup hub in the world. Nearly half of these startups also have women as directors. Nearly 120 startups have got unicorn status. National missions for AI, Semiconductor and Quantum computing are becoming the new engines of growth. In a way, innovation is becoming a mass movement.

India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionized digital payments. Nearly 50% of the world's real-time digital transactions take place in India. I congratulate Trinidad & Tobago for being the first country in the region to adopt UPI. Now sending money will be as easy as sending a ‘good morning’ text message! And I promise, it will be faster than West Indies bowling.

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Friends,

Our Mission Manufacturing is working to make India a manufacturing hub. We have become the world’s second largest mobile manufacturer. We are exporting railway locomotives to the world.

Our defence exports have increased 20-fold in just the last decade. We are not just making in India. We are making for the world. As we grow, we are ensuring that it is of mutual benefit to the world.

Friends,

Today’s India is a land of opportunities. Whether it is business, tourism, education, or healthcare, India has a lot to offer.

Your ancestors took a long and difficult journey, over a 100 days across the seas, to reach here – Saat Samandar Par! Today, that same journey takes just a few hours. I encourage you all to visit India more, in person, not just virtually on social media!

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Visit the villages of your ancestors. Walk the soil they walked on. Bring your children, bring your neighbours. Bring anyone who enjoys chai and a good story. We will welcome you all – with open arms, warm hearts, and jalebi!

With these words, I thank you all once again for the love and affection you have shown to me.

I specially thank Prime Minister Kamla Ji for honouring me with your highest national award.

बहुत बहुत धन्यवाद.

Namaskar !
Sita Ram !
Jai Shri Ram !