Respected Shri Rameshwar Garu ji, Ramu ji, Barun Das ji, and the entire TV9 team -- I extend my greetings to all the viewers of your network and all the esteemed guests present here. Congratulations on organising this summit.
TV9 Network has a vast regional audience, and now, a global audience is also emerging. Many people from the Indian diaspora across various countries are specially connected live with this summit. I can even see people from different countries waving from there. I extend my best wishes to all of them. I can also see many viewers from different cities in Bharat on the screen below with the same enthusiasm and excitement. I warmly welcome them as well.
Friends,
Today, the world's attention is on Bharat, on our nation. No matter which country you visit, people there are filled with a new curiosity about Bharat. What exactly happened that a country which took 70 years to become the world's 11th largest economy rose to the 5th position in just 7-8 years? Recently, new data from the IMF has come out, which states that Bharat is the only major economy in the world that has doubled its GDP in the last 10 years. In the past decade, Bharat has added two lakh crore dollars to its economy. Doubling the GDP is not just about numbers—it has a real impact. 25 crore people have risen out of poverty, and they have become a part of the neo middle class. This neo-middle class is starting a new life, moving forward with new dreams, contributing to our economy, and making it more vibrant. Today, Bharat has the world’s largest young population. These young people are rapidly becoming skilled, driving innovation, and transforming the nation. Amidst all this, Bharat’s foreign policy mantra has become "India First." In the past, Bharat’s policy was to maintain equal distance from all nations—the "Equi-Distance" policy. But today, Bharat’s approach has changed to "Equi-Closeness"—building close relationships with all countries. The world now values Bharat’s opinions, innovations, and efforts more than ever before. The world is looking at Bharat, eager to know: "What India Thinks Today."
Friends,
Today, Bharat is not just participating in the world order but also contributing to shaping and securing the future. The world experienced this firsthand during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many believed that it would take years for every Indian to receive the vaccine. But Bharat proved all doubts wrong. We developed our own vaccines, ensured rapid vaccination for our citizens, and even supplied medicines and vaccines to more than 150 countries. During a time of crisis, Bharat’s actions demonstrated to the world our values, our culture, and our way of life.
Friends,
In the past, after World War II, whenever a global institution was formed, it was often dominated by a few nations. But Bharat did not seek monopoly; instead, we prioritized humanity above all. Bharat has played a crucial role in shaping 21st-century global institutions, ensuring that they are inclusive and that everyone has a voice. Take the challenge of natural disasters—no country is immune to them, and they cause severe damage to infrastructure. Today itself, a major earthquake struck Myanmar, and as seen on television, massive buildings have collapsed, and bridges have fallen. Recognising this, Bharat initiated a global organisation called the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). This is not just an institution; it is a global commitment to preparing the world for natural disasters. Bharat is working to ensure that bridges, roads, buildings, power grids, and other infrastructure remain safe and are built with resilience against natural calamities.
Friends,
It is crucial for every country to work together to tackle future challenges. One such challenge is our energy resources. That is why, keeping the world's concerns in mind, Bharat proposed the International Solar Alliance (ISA). This initiative ensures that even the smallest nations can benefit from sustainable energy. It will not only have a positive impact on the climate but also secure the energy needs of Global South nations. You will be proud to know that over 100 countries have already joined Bharat’s initiative.
Friends,
In recent times, the world has faced imbalances in global trade and challenges in logistics. To address these issues, Bharat has collaborated with the world on new initiatives. One such ambitious project is the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). This project will connect Asia, Europe, and the Middle East through commerce and connectivity. It will not only boost economic opportunities but also provide alternative trade routes for the world, strengthening the global supply chain.
Friends,
Bharat has taken several steps to make global systems more participative and democratic. Right here, at Bharat Mandapam, the G20 Summit was held, where a historic decision was made—the African Union was granted permanent membership in the G20. This had been a long-standing demand, which was fulfilled under Bharat’s presidency. Today, Bharat is becoming the voice of Global South nations in global decision-making institutions. From International Yoga Day to the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine, and from shaping a global framework for Artificial Intelligence to many other initiatives, Bharat’s efforts have solidified its presence in the new world order. And this is just the beginning. Bharat’s strength on the global platform is reaching new heights!
Friends,
Twenty-five years of the 21st century have passed. Out of these 25 years, our government has served the nation for 11 years. When we talk about "What India Thinks Today," we must also look at the past—the questions that were raised and the answers that were given. This will help the vast audience of TV9 understand how Bharat has moved from dependency to self-reliance, from aspirations to achievements, and from desperation to development. Think back to a decade ago: When the issue of toilets arose in villages, women had only one answer—they had to wait until after dark or before dawn. Today, that problem has been solved through the Swachh Bharat Mission. In 2013, when someone talked about medical treatment, the conversation revolved around high costs. Today, the solution to that problem is evident in Ayushman Bharat. In 2013, when people thought about a poor family’s kitchen, they imagined smoke-filled rooms. Today, that problem has been solved by the Ujjwala Yojana. In 2013, if women were asked about bank accounts, they often remained silent. Today, thanks to Jan Dhan Yojana, over 30 crore women have their own bank accounts. Earlier, families had to walk long distances to fetch drinking water from wells and ponds. Today, that problem has been solved with the Har Ghar Nal Se Jal scheme. It’s not just the decade that has changed, but people’s lives have transformed. The world has noticed this and is acknowledging Bharat’s development model. Today, Bharat is not just a Nation of Dreams—it is a Nation That Delivers!
Friends,
When a country values the convenience and time of its citizens, the nation’s progress accelerates. We are experiencing this transformation in Bharat today. Let me give you an example: You know that getting a passport used to be a difficult task in the past. Long waiting periods, complex documentation, and passport offices located only in state capitals meant that people from smaller towns often had to stay for a day or two in another city just to apply. But today, the situation has completely changed. Now you look at this figure. Earlier, Bharat had only 77 Passport Seva Kendras. Today, there are more than 550. Earlier, getting a passport took up to 50 days. Today, the waiting time has been reduced to just 5-6 days! I am not talking about the last century. I am talking about the period before 2013.
Friends,
We have witnessed a similar transformation in banking infrastructure. About 50-60 years ago, banks were nationalized with the claim that this would make banking services accessible to the people. But we all know the reality. For decades, millions of villages had no banking facilities. We have changed this situation. Online banking has reached every household. Today, within every 5-kilometer radius, there is at least one banking touchpoint. We have not only expanded banking infrastructure but also strengthened the banking system. Today, Non-Performing Assets (NPA) have reduced significantly. Today, bank profits have crossed 1.4 lakh crore rupees, setting a new record. Not only this, those who have looted the money of the people are being forced to return that money. The Enforcement Directorate (ED), which is often criticized, has recovered 22,000 crore rupees. This money is being legally returned to the victims from whom it was looted.
Friends,
Efficiency makes governance effective. When more work is done in less time, when more is achieved with fewer resources, when there is no wastage, and when red tape is replaced with a red carpet—this is when a government truly respects the nation's resources. For the past 11 years, this has been a top priority of our government. I will illustrate my point with a few examples.
Friends,
In the past, we have seen how governments accommodated more people in ministries. But in our first term itself, we merged several ministries to improve efficiency. Earlier, Urban Development and Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation were separate ministries. We merged both of them into the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs. Similarly, Overseas Affairs and External Affairs were separate ministries. We merged them. Earlier, Water Resources, River Development, and Drinking Water were separate ministries. We combined them into the Jal Shakti Ministry. We prioritised the nation's needs and resources over political compulsions.
Friends,
Our government has simplified rules and regulations by removing unnecessary complexities. Around 1,500 outdated laws that had lost their relevance were abolished. Nearly 40,000 compliances were removed. This had two major benefits: People were freed from unnecessary harassment and secondly, government machinery became more efficient. A great example is GST (Goods and Services Tax). Earlier, there were over 30 different taxes, which have now been merged into one single tax. This has led to massive savings in processing time and documentation.
Friends,
Government purchases used to involve wasteful spending and corruption, something that the media frequently reported. To eliminate this, we introduced GeM (Government e-Marketplace). Now, government departments list their requirements on this platform. Vendors place bids transparently. Orders are placed accordingly. As a result, corruption has significantly reduced and the government has saved over 1 lakh crore rupees. Another game-changing reform is Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). This model is now recognised globally. DBT has saved Indian taxpayers over 3 lakh crore rupees, preventing it from reaching the wrong hands. 10 crore fake beneficiaries—some of whom never even existed and were enjoying the benefits of government schemes were removed from government records.
Friends,
Our government ensures every penny of taxpayers' money is used honestly. We respect taxpayers and have made the tax system more user-friendly. ITR (Income Tax Return) filing is now faster and easier than ever before. Earlier, it was nearly impossible to file an ITR without a CA. Today, anyone can file their ITR online within minutes, and refunds are processed within days of filing the returns. The Faceless Assessment Scheme has further eliminated unnecessary hassles for taxpayers. Through such governance reforms, Bharat has set an example for the world—a new model of efficient governance.
Friends,
In the last 10-11 years, Bharat has transformed in every sector and progressed significantly. But the biggest change has been in our mindset. For many decades after independence, a mindset was promoted in Bharat that considered only foreign products to be superior. Even in shops, the first thing a shopkeeper would say while selling something was—'Brother, take this, it's imported!' But today, the situation has changed. Now, people ask upfront—'Brother, is it Made in India or not?'"
Friends,
Today we are witnessing a new era of Bharat’s manufacturing excellence. Just 3-4 days ago, news came that Bharat has built its first MRI machine. Think about it— for decades, we didn't have an indigenous MRI machine. Now that we have a Made in India MRI machine, the cost of medical tests will also decrease significantly.
Friends,
The Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives have infused new energy into the country's manufacturing sector. Earlier, the world saw Bharat as just a global market, but today, the same world views Bharat as a major manufacturing hub. The scale of this success can be seen across various sectors. Take our mobile phone industry, for example. In 2014-15, our mobile exports were not even worth one billion dollars. But within a decade, we have surpassed the twenty-billion-dollar mark. Today, Bharat is emerging as a power centre in the global telecom and networking industry. You are also well aware of the success of our automotive sector. Bharat is making a strong mark in the export of automotive components. Previously, we imported a large number of motorcycle parts. But today, parts made in Bharat are reaching countries like the UAE and Germany. The solar energy sector has also achieved remarkable growth. Our imports of solar cells and solar modules have decreased, while exports have surged 23 times. Over the past decade, our defence exports have also grown 21 times. All these achievements showcase the strength of our manufacturing economy. They demonstrate how new jobs are being created in every sector across the country.
Friends,
In this TV9 Summit, there will be extensive discussions and deep deliberations on various topics. Whatever we think today, whichever vision we move forward with, will shape and design our country's future. In the same decade of the last century, Bharat embarked on a new journey towards independence with renewed energy. And we successfully achieved our independence in 1947. Now, in this decade, we are moving towards the goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). We must fulfil the dream of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047. As I mentioned from the Red Fort, ‘Sabka Prayas’ (everyone’s effort) is essential in this mission. By organising this summit, TV9 has also taken a positive initiative. Once again, I extend my heartfelt best wishes for the success of this summit.
I would like to especially congratulate TV9 because, while media houses have conducted summits before, most of them were held in a small five-star hotel room, with the same speakers, the same audience, and the same setting. TV9 has broken this tradition and introduced a new model. Mark my words—within two years, all media houses will have to follow this approach. In other words, 'TV9 Thinks Today' will pave the way for others. I sincerely appreciate this effort and commend your entire team. The most admirable aspect is that you have organised this event not just for the benefit of a media house but for the welfare of the country. Engaging with over 50,000 young people in a mission mode, connecting them to a cause, selecting promising individuals, and ensuring their further training is truly an extraordinary initiative. I wholeheartedly congratulate you. I also had the opportunity to take a photograph with the talented youth present here, and it was a moment of joy for me. I consider it my privilege to have my picture taken with you all today. I firmly believe that the young generation I see today will be the biggest beneficiaries when the country becomes a ‘Viksit Bharat’ in 2047. By then, you will be at the prime of your careers when Bharat will be developed, and the opportunities will be endless for you. My best wishes to all of you.
Thank you.
