My Dear Brothers and Sisters of Guwahati who have gathered here in large numbers
Today is an important event in the history of railways. One more of the Indian states are going to be connected through rail network. Today, a new route from Mendipathar in Meghalaya to Guwahati in Assam gets connected by rail. Also there is yet another occasion for the railways as the foundation for a new rail route from Bhairabi to Sairang in Mizoram will be laid. So both these projects where one rail route is being opened up and foundation for another is being laid presents a unique occasion.
There are those of us who believe in Vaastu though I must confess that I do not know much about it. But if I were to believe what the experts say then the North East corner of the house should be well kept. It should be clean and its sanctity should be maintained at all times. If this is done the house will forever prosper. Well, I cannot verify these claims but what I do know is that if we are able to take care of the North East India, the ‘Ishan’ corner of our homeland , then the entire India will prosper.
So if we want India to prosper, the progress of the North East will need to be fast tracked. The first step in this direction will be the development of infrastructure. Those who are futuristic and have a great vision always start with the development of infrastructure. Once infrastructure is developed then the people themselves take development forward.
Many of you must have heard about South Korea. It is a small country with a population of about 5-6 crores. It is along the sea coast. It was a very poor country. We talk about the poverty in India but think of a country poorer than India. But the rulers there thought of building a highway at par with international standards right in the middle of the country. This became a hugely controversial decision. People were angry that they had no food, the children had no access to education, they had no homes to live yet their ruler was thinking of spending hundreds of crores of on construction of a road. But their ruler was a man of grit and determination. He went ahead with his plans and built the road despite the criticism. And that one road changed the face of the entire nation.
A few years back we too hosted the Commonwealth Games. We are a large country but what did we do? Whatever happened in Delhi, the negative publicity and the disgrace that followed is known to one and all. That same small country of South Korea was able to hold Olympics in their country about 12-15 years back and host a worldwide audience. That nation prospered and poverty was eradicated. And how did they achieve that, by just one road – that opened the doors of prosperity for them.
The American President Kennedy said, it is not wealth that creates roads but it is the roads that lead to the creation of wealth. In the plans for development, infrastructure occupies a significant place. If the North East has to develop and play an important role in the development of India, then infrastructure development should be a priority. It is my firm belief that these 8 North Eastern states, our Ashta Lakshmi, (eight goddesses of wealth) have the potential of bringing in prosperity for the entire nation. If these eight states are connected to the Nation’s infrastructure which includes roads, rail and all other types of connectivity, if we are successful in doing so which I am sure we will then there will be no looking back. There is a new higher middle class which takes family vacations once or twice each year. They are always scouting for new destinations. With better connectivity North East will become the heaven which every tourist desires. The beautiful landscapes, the dense jungles and above all the warmth of the people here will make it the most sought after destination and I am sure that people from all over India will be thronging the place.
And with this thought of developing the North East, our new government that has been recently formed, in its first budget itself allocated a sum of Rs. 28,000 crores for the development of rail network in the region. I have a firm belief that once this network is laid my people will themselves take this region to new unprecedented heights of progress and development. In the changing world scenario, it is believed that this century belongs to Asia. And if this is a century of Asia then have we made any preparations? There is an emphasis on Look East policy. We believe that if this century belongs to Asia then we are definitely going to make the most of it. And how do we intend to achieve it? Not just by following Look East but by following Look East Act East policy. And we are now moving form just Look East to Act East policy. It is our effort that North East gets connected by road and rail to Myanmar and other East Asian countries. If this is achieved, this region will become the centre of trade and commerce. This region will hold the potential for redefining progress. And then, the youth of North East will not have to leave their homeland endowed with natural wealth and go elsewhere to big cities in search of livelihood.
Times are changing and so we have to move forward with new concept of infrastructural development. The infrastructure too needs to be with ethos of next generation. In the past building rail, road, ports and airports was perceived by the people a lot was done. But now the world is changing. Now highways are required as are i-ways. Information ways, i-ways. There is no place for a digital divide. North East should be an integral part of the Digital India dream. It should have both i-ways network and connectivity. The facilities should be such that whatever one is able to achieve sitting in Delhi same should be available to a person living in the difficult terrains of the North East.
The world is changing. Why shouldn’t there be gas grid? Why shouldn’t there be access to 24 hours of fresh water supply? Why shouldn’t there be electricity supply round the clock? Why shouldn’t there be an optical fibre network? We have to develop infrastructure keeping the new and changing times in mind. This concept of next generation infrastructure development for a Modern India should be conducted at a fast pace and should be actualized as soon as possible. The children of North East are educated in English. If there is proper optical fibre coverage and smooth connectivity then the youth of North East can do the same job work from home in their own village as is being done in Hyderabad and Bangalore. They do not need to go to Delhi and Bombay for call centre jobs. This can happen in North East itself. This world here can change hence I am taking a special interest in the development of the North East.
A few days back I had visited Myanmar. I had discussions with the heads of state regarding improved connectivity, improved trade and greater utilization of the local human resource. Dear brothers and sisters, this rail connectivity is not only about passengers commuting from one place to another. It is a medium that connects us, gives us pace and speed and also provides us strength. The Indian railways have the potential to become the backbone of all economic activities. But instead of considering it as the energetic force of economic development we have made it completely insignificant. Nobody from the parliament or the nation ever pays attention to the discussions of the railway budget.
The moment Railway Minister starts speaking, the statements that are greeted with applause are the ones related to increase in number of coaches or extension of some route or upgradation of some station.
We have divided railways in such small parts. We should not be satisfied if a coach is added and applaud it or feel happy if a new route is opened. We will not be satisfied with these petty gains. We have to both expand railways and also modernize it. We are aiming at both horizontal and vertical expansion of the railways. By horizontal expansion I mean expanding its reach to every nook and corner of the country. By vertical expansion I mean the upgradation of services which involves technology upgradation, speed enhancement to save time and enhancement of facilities. It will be our endeavour to see that railways truly become an engine facilitating the economic growth of the nation in true sense.
I have complete faith that under the dynamic leadership of our new Rail Minister, Mr. Suresh Prabhu railway will witness many fold progress in comparison to the progress made in the past 100 years. For the first time in the country’s history we have made a decision that of 100 % foreign direct investment. We are looking at 100% foreign investment in the railways. People will come, invest money, create moderns trains, create modern rail lines, modern signaling system will be implemented , modern ticketing system will be put in place – the entire railway system will be modernised.
In a country of 125 million everyone has been a passenger some or the other time. Some people travel once a year and some people travel many times in the same day but the underlying fact is that everyone travels. So you can imagine the large commercial market that exists. We can also strive towards making eco friendly and environment friendly railways. Thus we can play an important role in the fight against global warming arising out of mass transportation.
There are many facets which we want to involve in the creation of new systems using the railways. The entire functioning of the railways involves expertise, dedicated technology and continuous technology upgradation and for this human resources are required. Currently the railways advertise for vacancies and the people apply for jobs. Those who qualify for the interviews are subsequently trained for the services. We have thought of a new version which I am sure the new generation will definitely like. I have suggested establishing Railway University in four corners of the country. It will have all the courses and also courses dedicated to the functioning of railways. Thus on passing out, the youth will immediately find an employment opportunity with the railways.
Human resource development along with technology upgradation, improvement in speed and management, improvement in facilities and delivery of services - this is our agenda. Our railway stations which exist right in the heart of big cities extend for miles. Land today is a major premium. But our railway stations continue to be the same as they were a hundred years back. Same chairs and benches to sit, same services to the passengers. But can’t this all be changed? We have asked for the railway stations to be privatised. The trains keep running below and above them five star , seven star hotels, motels or malls can be erected. The sky above the train is open so utilize it for income generation and enhance the services delivered at the railway stations- this is what I have explained to them.
Railways have taken a call for the modernisation of some railway platforms. I hold the view that railway platform should be better than the airports. Because railway platform is used by the poorest of poor, the common man as well as a labourer hence the services at the railway platform have to change. You will see that within no time I will create 10 -12 model stations. Once this is attained, then the entire country will follow and our work will gain momentum.
Brothers and sisters, we have to bring about a dramatic change in the railways. Our endeavour should be to be the best in the world and for that whatever new technology is required we will bring it in.
By connecting the North East, this Ashta Lakshmi of India by rail we intend to make this region the most prosperous in India. We are working in that direction. I congratulate the railway officials and give them my best wishes. I congratulate the Rail ministry and the new Rail minister who will take this forward at a great speed. I congratulate the people of Meghalaya and Mizoram. I thank the governor and Chief Minister from all my heart. Let us all work to take our nation to new heights and our idea of progress should entail development for all, no region should be left behind. Let us move forward with the notion that development touches one and all, is inclusive and all encompassing, is fulfilling for everyone and extends everywhere. In taking this development forward, I thank everybody for their contribution. I express my gratitude to Shri Tarun ji.
Thank You.
(The original speech was in Hindi, this is the English rendering. Original speech remains the authoritative version)
Published By : Admin |
November 29, 2014 | 21:08 IST
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India and Indonesia are connected not only by our history but also by a shared future: PM Modi at community programme in Jakarta
July 07, 2026
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His Excellency President Prabowo,
My dear friends,
brothers and sisters,
Selamat malam!
Namaskaar!
Vanakkam!
Sat Sri Akaal!
Jai Jhule Laal!
Kem-chho?
These days, the world is gripped by football fever. Here in Indonesia too, the passion for football is truly extraordinary. And all of you have brought that same energy and enthusiasm here today.
There is another remarkable coincidence that perhaps some of you may have noticed, but I would still like to mention it. Every time I have visited Indonesia, the FIFA World Cup has been in full swing. The first time was in 2018, when we gathered in Jakarta. We met again in Bali in 2022. And now, in 2026, we are once again meeting here in Jakarta. On all three occasions, Indonesia has been alive with the excitement and passion of football.
However friends,
The 'Man of the Match' at all three of these events in Indonesia has been the same - all of you living in Indonesia. Each one of you is the true 'Man of the Match'!
You have organised such a magnificent event. You are the living embodiment of a vibrant India. It is truly heartening to see so many people gathered here today. Friends, this time I have not come here alone. Joining me today is my dear friend, President Prabowo.
Before I begin my address today, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to President Prabowo for his warmth and his gracious words.
Excellency,
You are a true friend of India. Thank you for being here !!!
Friends,
From the moment our aircraft entered Indonesian airspace and I set foot here, I have been overwhelmed by the warmth and affection extended to me by the people of Indonesia. Words fall short of expressing my gratitude for such heartfelt hospitality. It was a truly memorable experience to be received at the airport by President Prabowo himself, accompanied by members of his Cabinet.
The love for Indian culture in Indonesia was also reflected in a glimpse that I witnessed today at the Presidential Palace. The enthusiasm of the people here, the smiles of the children, and the energy of the youth were all truly remarkable and beyond words. Wherever I went, and everyone I met, I could clearly see love, respect, and warmth for India on every face.
Friends,
By the way, I noticed that the Indian song Kuch Kuch Hota Hai is very popular here. Today, I told President Prabowo that when India and Indonesia move forward together, it is not a little bit that happens - but much more than that!
Friends,
Earlier this morning, I also had the privilege of being conferred Indonesia's highest honour. This is a tribute to the 1.4 billion people of India. It is an honour for all of you, the members of the Indian community. Above all, this award is yet another symbol of the close friendship between Indonesia and India. From this platform as well, I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Prabowo, the Government of Indonesia, and the people of Indonesia.
Friends,
Last year, India celebrated its Republic Day with great enthusiasm on 26 January. 26, i.e. 2 and 6 equals … And my friend was also born on the 17th, i.e. 1 plus…
President Prabowo had attended that ceremony as the Chief Guest. During that visit, we had the opportunity to hold detailed discussions on a wide range of subjects. But there is one particular aspect of that visit that I would especially like to recall today. President Prabowo also referred to it here with great pride.
Mr President, you had said on that occasion, and you have said so again today, that you have India’s DNA. Even today, I noticed that it was at that moment that the loudest applause erupted. And in India too, you have won the hearts of millions and millions of Indians. That one sentence had touched the hearts of the people of India.
I would like to take forward that very thought of yours. The DNA that you spoke of is made of mutual trust. That DNA is shaped by our shared heritage. That DNA is shaped by our shared memories. That DNA is shaped by the sea winds that, for thousands of years, have carried our ships to each other's shores.
Friends,
The DNA of India-Indonesia relations is shaped by the saints and Buddhist monks who did not confine knowledge within boundaries. It is shaped by the entrepreneurs who not only traded in spices but also built bridges between cultures. This DNA has been forged by the artists who embraced the Ramayana and the Mahabharata in their own languages, while preserving their shared spirit.
The vibrant people of Indonesia, and the many families gathered here today, have nurtured, strengthened, and continually enriched the relationship between India and Indonesia.
Friends,
Around the world, relationships between two countries often move forward through Agreements and MoUs. Some countries are brought closer by strategy, while others deepen their ties through trade. But the relationship between India and Indonesia is one of civilisations; it is a relationship shaped by the sea.
Empires came and went, maritime routes changed, and the politics of the world evolved. But the bond between India and Indonesia has always endured. And that is our greatest strength.
Friends,
Today, the world speaks of connectivity. But our ancestors had already lived that connectivity. Today, global supply chains are being disrupted due to a lack of trust. But India and Indonesia had built trust in supply chains at a time when there was not even any discussion of global supply chains.
I am happy that today, India and Indonesia are together writing a new future, drawing upon that very reservoir of trust. And among the greatest beneficiaries of this promising future are all of you - the Indian community living in Indonesia.
Friends,
These days, we live in the age of social media, and in this age, there is a great deal of discussion about ‘collabs’. But India and Indonesia have been collaborating for centuries.
It was this ‘collab’ that led to the ancient Sanskrit inscriptions in Kutai, Indonesia. It was this ‘collab’ that brought scholars from here to Nalanda University.
Whether it is the Bali Jatra festival in Cuttack, the tradition of sailing boats made from banana trunks on the Mahanadi, the staging of the Mahabharata through Wayang Kulit, the Vesak pilgrimage, or the worship of Dewi Sri, this ‘collab’ between India and Indonesia is clearly reflected in all these traditions.
Friends,
The history of collabs between India and Indonesia is as ancient as it is rich. In ancient times, Muaro Jambi in Sumatra was a sister institution of Nalanda. I am very pleased that today we are reviving that very tradition from the past.
As all of you know, Nalanda University has now been re-established in a new form. Many students from Indonesia have also enrolled there. This means that, in the 21st century, inspired by our shared past, our two countries are charting the course towards a new future.
Friends,
India and Indonesia are close not only in our hearts but also as geographical neighbours. The distance between India's Great Nicobar Island and Aceh in Indonesia is about 150 kilometres. Just imagine - Indonesia is closer to one of India's islands than many of India's own states are.
Every Indian who comes to Indonesia feels a sense of belonging here. That is why, for years, our two countries have remained connected through trade, tradition, and tourism, carrying forward the legacy of our relationship.
Today, as India is building new ports, developing new ships, exploring new sea routes, and advancing maritime trade through new partnerships, Indonesia stands with us as our favourite friend.
Friends,
Whether it is Indonesia or India, both our countries are eager to accelerate development. We have neither the time nor the opportunity to pause or stand still. A short while ago, some members of the Indian community spoke about Indonesia's progress. From India, I too have come with many stories of India's progress to share with you.
Friends,
These days, whenever you hear about India, there is one topic that invariably makes the headlines first, and that is India's economy. Some will say that India has become a multi-trillion-dollar economy. Others will speak about its GDP growth. Some will tell you how dramatically the economy has grown over the past 10-12 years. You will hear about one remarkable achievement after another.
Today, India's economy is playing a major role in driving global growth. Even when the world was hit by the COVID pandemic, India's economy did not come to a standstill. Even during the ongoing crisis in West Asia, India's economy did not slow down. In fact, in the last quarter of the previous financial year, which ended in March, our growth rate stood at 7.7%.
This pace and this progress have not come about by chance. India has undertaken many reforms. We have consistently performed, and that is why the country is being transformed today. We are moving forward with the mantra: Reform, Perform, Transform.
Friends,
The growth that India has achieved today is the growth of the dreams of 1.4 billion people. It is the growth of the aspirations of millions of Indians. All of you are an integral part of that dream. Every Indian living in Indonesia is a partner in that dream.
Friends,
If I were to describe the speed and scale of India's growth in one line, I would say: One point four billion aspirations in motion. Today, from our villages to our cities, every citizen of India is filled with aspirations. There is a growing confidence in everyone that, yes, we can achieve success.
Friends,
Let me give you an example. You all know that owning a home is one of the biggest dreams for every individual. Now consider this figure from India: over the past 10-12 years in India, the Government has built and provided more than 4 crore permanent houses to poor families. In many countries, the total number of houses is not even that high.
Friends,
When people get a home of their own, when they are able to live their life with dignity, the aspirations of millions of Indians gain momentum, and their dreams are set in motion.
Friends,
Let me share an interesting statistic about social security coverage in India. 12 years ago, around 25 crore people in India had social security coverage. Today, nearly 100 crore Indians are covered under social security. And the next figure I am about to share with you will truly surprise you.
India has a scheme called the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojna. Under this scheme, accidental insurance coverage of ₹2 lakh is available for an annual premium of just ₹20. In other words, it costs less than a cup of coffee. You may or may not find such a scheme anywhere else in the world, but it is available in India. Nearly 60 crore people in India are covered under this scheme.
Friends,
There is another scheme as well, the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojna. Under this scheme, life insurance is available at a premium of about ₹1.5 per day. Just ₹1.5 a day - even a cup of coffee costs more than that. At present, 28 crore people in India are enrolled under this scheme.
Friends,
Under these two Government schemes, claims amounting to nearly ₹22,000 crore have been paid to beneficiaries so far. ₹22,000 crore. When people faced difficult times in their lives, the Government stood by them as a partner and extended its support.
Friends,
Today, India has put in place another system that is unprecedented and remarkable. It is the Direct Benefit Transfer system. This is a foolproof mechanism through which the full benefit reaches the beneficiary without any leakage.
A gentleman came to me and asked what my vision was for Bengal. This is the vision... Direct Benefit Transfer. No leakage.
And the money goes directly into the beneficiaries' bank accounts. You can imagine that over the past 12 years, assistance amounting to nearly ₹50 lakh crore, i.e. 50 trillion rupees, has been transferred directly into people's bank accounts.
Friends,
When such a system is put in place, it strengthens people's trust and instils confidence in them. And then, 25 crore Indians are able to overcome poverty, rise above it, and begin to live a life of pride and dignity.
Friends,
Let me share another data point with you. You may have heard that nearly 50% of all real-time digital payments in the world take place in India alone. 50% of the world's total.
Today, more than 75 crore digital transactions take place every day in India. More than 75 crore. This means that in day-to-day life, people no longer have to carry cash. In fact, the situation has reached a point where people are beginning to forget the PINs of their debit cards and even the passwords of their bank ATMs, because everything is being done through UPI, simply using a mobile phone.
Friends,
When dreams are big, the speed at which the Government works also increases accordingly. Today, wherever you go in India, you will see highways and expressways being built all around.
Over the past 12 years, the pace of highway construction has tripled. This too is among the fastest in the world. During this period, the length of expressways in India has increased from about 100 kilometres to 3,000 kilometres.
And it is India's youth who are driving these big dreams. Over the past 12 years, the number of Indian universities in the global QS rankings has increased from 11 to more than 50.
Today, India's youth are filing patents in large numbers and driving innovation. That is why India today has more than 2 lakh registered start-ups. More than 2 lakh. It is also home to around 125 unicorns.
That is why I say that India is not just the fastest-growing economy. India is also home to more than a billion dreams in motion.
Friends,
We Indians have a special liking for freshly prepared food. And if it is served piping hot, it is even better. So, let me give you the freshest example of India's capabilities.
Just two days before coming to Indonesia, on 4 July, I had the opportunity to dedicate projects worth more than ₹1 lakh crore to the nation, just in a single day. Infrastructure projects worth one trillion rupees in a single day. This is the scale at which India is working.
Friends,
On 4th July, India inaugurated a major new refinery. And the amount of material used in building this refinery is equally remarkable. It contains enough steel to build 40 new Eiffel Towers, or 5 Burj Khalifas.
The length of cable used in the construction of this refinery is enough to circle the Earth twice. It is because of such projects that India has today become one of the top 4 countries in the world in terms of refining capacity.
Friends,
On 4 July itself, apart from this refinery, a magnificent new airport was inaugurated in Jodhpur. A ₹28,000 crore UDAN scheme was launched to expand air connectivity to smaller towns and cities. Jaipur's metro network was also expanded on the same day. And on that very day, India's third semiconductor plant also commenced operations.
Which means that from energy and connectivity to chip manufacturing, India is unstoppable!
Friends,
Today, India is not only fulfilling its own aspirations but also standing alongside the aspirations of every friendly nation. India is guided by the mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. That is why it works with its partners to create new opportunities and connect them to new possibilities.
India's journey towards self-reliance, or Aatmanirbharta, is also a multiplying force for Indonesia and for the entire ASEAN region. Take the health sector, for example. Today, one out of every five generic medicines in the world is manufactured in India. Nearly 60% of the vaccines procured by UNICEF come from India. The entire region also benefits from this. We take great pride in whatever we are able to do for our friends.
Friends,
I have shared so much with you about India. Now I have one more request from you. Tell your Indonesian friends about India, and encourage them to visit India.
Today, there are several direct flights from Jakarta to Mumbai, and from Bali to Delhi and Bengaluru. This has made travel to and from India much easier.
Friends,
You should also tell the younger generation of the Indian community, especially the youth, about India. In Indonesia, the Bharat Ko Jaano Quiz has been launched for children of the Indian community. A large number of children here are participating in it. Even during the curtain-raiser event, I witnessed your tremendous enthusiasm.
In its sixth edition, we have moved away from the examination format and transformed the entire competition into a gamified experience. I urge all the young people here to participate in it and share your experience with me on social media.
Friends,
India and Indonesia are connected not only by our history but also by a shared future. Our opportunities are shared. Our challenges are shared. When International Yoga Day is celebrated, we practise yoga together. And when a crisis such as a tsunami strikes, we stand together to face it.
The trust between our two countries is a great source of strength. Together, we must continue to strengthen it.
All of you are vital links in the prosperous future for India and Indonesia. You must continue to strengthen and expand this role.
With these words, I once again express my gratitude to my dear friend President Prabowo, and to the people of Indonesia. I extend my best wishes to all of you.
Bharat aur Indonesia, Mitra Selamanya.
Thank you very much.
Tomorrow, I will be visiting the sacred temple along with Mr President. And what is the date tomorrow? That itself reflects how strong our bond is. I have shared with President Prabowo many of India's initiatives, and I promise that there is no copyright on any of them. No copyright, and no claim to any royalty. Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas is our guiding mantra.
Thank you very much.
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