Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
I am here to participate in the discussion of the Hon’ble President's Address. I extend my heartfelt thanks and congratulations to the Hon’ble President for her address.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
This 75th Republic Day is in itself a significant milestone. The address by the Hon’ble President at this crucial stage of the journey of the Constitution holds historical importance. In her address, she has spoken about Bharat’s self-confidence, expressed confidence in Bharat’s bright future, and presented the potential of millions of Indians to the nation through the Parliament in a very concise but magnificent manner. I express heartfelt gratitude for this inspiring address by the Hon’ble President and for providing direction to the nation, and for empowering Bharat’s resolution towards ‘Viksit Bharat’.
During the discussion, many Hon’ble members expressed their views and made efforts in their own ways to enrich the discussion. I express heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to all the esteemed colleagues who made efforts to enrich this discussion. Criticism by some colleagues, speaking harsh words, was their compulsion, and I also express my sympathies towards them.
I couldn't say it that day, but I express special thanks to (Mallikarjun) Kharge ji. I was listening very attentively to Kharge ji, and I was thrilled ... It's very rare. Sometimes you get this thrill in the Lok Sabha, but nowadays he is busy somewhere else, so there's not much entertainment. But the lack of entertainment we were feeling in the Lok Sabha, you compensated for it that day. And I was pleased that Hon’ble Kharge ji spoke for quite a long time and in a very calm manner. He also took a very long time. I was wondering how he got the freedom to speak so much. I was thinking about this, but later I noticed that the two special ‘commanders’ weren't present that day. They are not present nowadays. And therefore, Hon’ble Kharge ji took great advantage of freedom. And I think Kharge ji must have heard a film song that day, ‘Aisa Mauka Phir Kahan Milega’ (where else will you get such an opportunity). Now that Kharge ji is no longer an umpire and a commando, so he was enjoying hitting boundaries and sixes. But one thing was very pleasing. I respectfully accept the blessing that he gave to the NDA for 400 seats. Now if you want to take the blessing back, you can, because we have returned (to power).
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
I vividly remember an incident from last year. We were sitting in that House (Lok Sabha) and there was a concerted effort to drown out the voice of the Prime Minister of the country. With great patience and humility, we listened to each and every one of your words. And even today, you have come prepared not to listen, but you cannot suppress my voice. The people of the country have empowered this voice. The voice is emanating from the blessings of the people of the country, and that's why this time I have also come fully prepared just like last time. I thought that perhaps someone like you who came to the House will abide by the norms, but you meted out great injustice to me for an hour and a half or so. And despite that I did not transgress any boundaries during my reply.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
I have also made a prayer. One can pray, and I keep praying. The challenge that has come to you from West Bengal (Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee) that the Congress won't be able to cross 40 (seats in this year’s elections), I pray that you manage to save 40.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
You (Kharge ji) said a lot about us and we heard. You have the right to speak in a democracy, and it is our responsibility to listen to you. And whatever discussions that have taken place today, I should present them in front of the country, and therefore, I will make a genuine effort.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
When I heard this, heard it there (Lok Sabha) and here (Rajya Sabha) too, my belief has firmed up that the (Congress) party has become outdated not just in its thinking but in its functioning as well. And when the thought process becomes outdated, they (Congress members) have also outsourced their work. In no time, such a big party, a party that ruled the country for decades, is facing such a downfall, such a decline. We are not happy, we have sympathies towards you. But what will a doctor do, when the patient himself doesn't know (what he is suffering from). What more should I say?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
It's true that today they (Congress members) talk a lot, but they have lost the patience to listen. However, I will definitely present my views in front of the country. The Congress party, which had openly strangled democracy in its greed for power, the Congress which had repeatedly dismissed democratically elected governments dozens of times overnight, the Congress which had (imprisoned several leaders behind bars) in complete disdain of democracy, the Congress which even tried to lock newspapers, has now developed a new hobby of building narratives to break the country. Not satisfied with that, now statements are being made to divide north-south? And this Congress is giving us lectures on democracy and federalism?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The Congress party, which left no stone unturned in dividing the country in the name of caste and language, the Congress, which allowed terrorism and separatism to flourish for its own benefit, the Congress, which pushed the North-East into violence, separatism, and backwardness, the Congress party, which left the country facing a huge challenge of Naxalism during its rule, the Congress, which handed over large swathes of the country's land to enemies, the Congress, which prevented the modernization of the country's armed forces, is today lecturing us on national security and internal security? The Congress party, which has been confused since independence itself, spent its time in the same confusion whether industrialisation or farming is necessary, unable to decide whether to nationalize or privatize, remained confused. The Congress, which in its 10 years of rule brought the economy from 12th to 11th position, from 12th to 11th position in 10 years! And it doesn't take much effort to go from 12th to 11th as you progress. Through our efforts, we brought it to the 5th position in 10 years. And the Congress is giving us long lectures on economic policies here?"
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The Congress party, which did not provide complete reservation to the OBCs, which never provided reservation to the poor in the general category, which did not consider Baba Saheb (Ambedkar) worthy of the Bharat Ratna, and kept giving Bharat Ratna to their own family members. The Congress party, which has planted parks in the name of its own family members on the streets and squares of the country, is giving us advice? They are teaching us lessons on social justice?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The Congress party, which has no guarantee of its own leader, no guarantee of its policies, they are questioning Modi's guarantee?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
There was a complaint here, and they wonder why we say such things, why we see such things. Why did the country and the world perceive their 10-year tenure in such a way, why did the country become angry, why did so much anger develop in the country? Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir, not everything has happened because of our words, the consequences of one's actions are now evident. They don't happen in another lifetime, they happen in this very life.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
We do not speak ill of anyone, why should we? When people have said so much to them, what need is there for me to say anything to them? I want to present a kind of statement before the House. I am reading the first quote – Members know, this is a quotation. Members know it. “Our growth has slowed down and fiscal deficit has increased, inflation has been rising continuously for the past 2 years. The current account deficit has exceeded our expectations.” I have read this quote. This is not a quote from any BJP leader, neither this quote is mine.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The then Prime Minister Shri Manmohan Singh ji during his 10-year tenure in the UPA government said this. He described this situation.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Now I read the second quote. “There is widespread anger in the country over the misuse of public office”. How the institutions were misused then. I did not misuse the institutions at that time. This was said by the then Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh ji. At that time, the whole country was protesting on the streets due to corruption, protests were going on in every corner. Now I will read the third quote - There are some lines of an amendment, listen to this too. “There is corruption in tax collection, and therefore, GST should be introduced. There is leakage in the ration scheme, which affects the poorest of the poor in the country the most. Measures need to be taken to stop this. There is doubt about the government contracts being given.” This was also said by the then Prime Minister Respected Manmohan Singh ji. And before him, another Prime Minister (of the Congress party) said that one rupee goes from Delhi, only 15 paise reaches (the beneficiaries). The problem was known to them, but there was no preparation to fix it. And today big statements are being made by them. Look at the 10-year history of the Congress. The country was called a Fragile Five Economy in the world then. It was not me, but the world was calling it Fragile Five. Policy paralysis had become their identity. And our 10 years will be remembered for being in the Top Five Economy. Our 10 years will be remembered for big and decisive decisions.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
We have worked very hard to bring the country out of crises. This country is not blessing us for nothing.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The British were eulogised in this House. The kings and maharajas had a close relationship with the British at that time. So now, I want to ask, who was inspired by the British? I won't ask who gave birth to the Congress party; I won't ask that. Even after independence, who promoted the mentality of slavery in the country? If you were not influenced by the British, then why didn't you change the Penal Code put together by the British?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
If you were not influenced by the British, then why did you continue with hundreds of laws from the British era? If you were not influenced by the British, then why did the culture of red beacons continue for decades? If you were not influenced by the British, then why did Bharat’s budget come at 5 o'clock in the evening, because the British Parliament started in the morning? Why did you maintain the tradition of presenting the budget at 5 o'clock in the evening, which was convenient for the British Parliament? Who was inspired by the British? If you were not inspired by the British, then why were symbols of slavery still present on our military insignia? We are removing them one by one. If you were not inspired by the British, then why did the country have to wait for Modi to transform Rajpath into the Kartavya Path?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
If you were not influenced by the British, then why were symbols of British rule still present in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
If you were not influenced by the British, then why couldn't you even build a War Memorial for the soldiers who sacrifice their lives for the country? Why was it not constructed? If you were not inspired by the British, why did you look down upon Indian languages? Why were you indifferent towards education in local languages?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
If you were not inspired by the British, then who stopped you from calling Bharat the Mother of Democracy? Why didn't you realize? Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir, I can provide hundreds of examples to show under whose influence you (the Congress) worked. And today the country is going to remember all these things after listening to it.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
I want to give another example. The Congress spread narratives, and the result of that narrative was that people who respected Bharat’s culture and values began to be seen with great disdain, considered backward. And in this way, injustice towards our past has occurred. If you insult your beliefs, if you insult your good traditions, then you are considered progressive. Such narratives began to be built in the country. And the world knows well under whose leadership such narratives were spread. The glorification of importing from other countries and considering second class anything that was Indian … This status symbol was created. The products made in foreign countries were considered as a status symbol. These people still refrain from speaking up for Vocal for Local where the work for the welfare of the poor of my country happens. Today, they don’t talk about ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India). When someone advocates for Make in India today, they get uncomfortable.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The country has seen all this and now understands, and you are also suffering the consequences of that.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
In her speech, the Hon’ble President addressed in detail about four major categories: youth, women, the poor, and our farmers. We know that their issues are mostly similar, their dreams are also similar, and if we want to find solutions, there might be a slight difference, but the path to solutions for these four categories is the same. Therefore, she has aptly guided the nation to strengthen these four pillars so that the country will move forward to become ‘Viksit Bharat’ at a rapid pace.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
If we are in the 21st century and want to fulfil the dreams of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 in this century, then the mindset of the 20th century cannot prevail. The selfish agenda of the 20th century, the game of "me and mine," cannot make Bharat prosperous and developed in the 21st century. These days, the Congress is discussing a lot about caste once again. I don't know why they felt the need for it. However, if they feel the need, they should first introspect and they will know what they have done. The Congress has always been the biggest opponent of Dalits, backward classes, and tribal communities. And sometimes I wonder if there would have been reservation for SC/ST if Babasaheb Ambedkar had not been there. This question also comes up in my mind.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
I have evidence behind what I'm saying. Their mindset has not changed since then; I have evidence of that. I'm not here just to speak without evidence, Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir. And when such issues have been raised from there (the Congress), they should be prepared. And they have known me very well for the last 10 years. Of late, I remember (Jawaharlal) Nehru ji more often these days because our friends (in the Congress) expect me to speak about him (Nehru ji). Now, let me read out a letter written by Nehru ji. This letter was written by the country’s Prime Minister Pandit Nehru to the chief ministers of the country at that time. It's on record. I'm reading the translation: "I do not like any kinds of reservations, especially reservations in jobs. I am against any step that promotes inefficiency and that leads towards the second class." This is the letter written by Pandit Nehru ji to the chief ministers. And therefore, I say they are always opposed to reservations. Nehru ji used to say, if SC, ST and OBC communities get reservation in jobs, the standard of government work will deteriorate. And today, those who rattle the figures, the root of those is here. Because at that time, they stopped it (reservation), they said don't recruit. If their (SC, ST and OBC communities) recruitment had happened in the government at that time, and they had been promoted, they would have reached here today.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
I'm reading this quote, you can verify. I'm reading a quote by Pandit Nehru.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
You know, what Nehru ji said is always a milestone for the Congress. Nehru ji's saying means a milestone for them. You can pretend to say anything, but your thoughts are evident from many examples. I can give you countless examples, but I want to give one example for sure, and I want to give the example of Jammu and Kashmir. The Congress kept the SC, ST, OBC communities of Jammu and Kashmir deprived of their rights for seven decades. Article 370 … I am not talking about how many seats we will win now. Article 370 was abolished, and only then, after so many decades, did SC, ST, OBC communities get the rights that the people of the country had been getting for years. The Forest Rights Act was not available to them in Jammu and Kashmir. The Prevention of Atrocities Act was not there in Jammu and Kashmir; we gave them these rights by removing Article 370. Even in our SC community, if anyone was left behind, it was our Valmiki society. Even after seven decades, our Valmiki families in Jammu and Kashmir, who were serving the people, were not given the right to domicile. And today I also want to make the country aware that the Bill for OBC reservation in Local Self-Governments in local bodies was passed in the Lok Sabha yesterday, on February 6th.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The increasing participation of the SC, ST and OBC communities has always been a major concern for the Congress and its allies. They left no stone unturned to eliminate Baba Saheb's politics and thoughts. The statements are available; what was said during the elections is also available. They weren't even prepared to give Bharat Ratna to him. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna only with the support of the BJP and when the (V.P.Singh) government was formed. Not only that, Sitaram Kesri, belonging to the extremely backward caste and who was the president of the Congress party, was thrown out on the footpath. (Because he was) OBC! The video is available; the country saw what happened with Sitaram Kesri.
And Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
One of their influential figures is sitting in America, who became famous for ‘Hua to Hua’ comment during the last elections. And the Congress is closely associated with this family. He has recently made significant efforts to diminish the contributions of the architect of the Constitution, Baba Saheb Ambedkar.
And Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
For the first time in the country, the NDA proposed an Adivasi daughter as a candidate for the post of President. One can understand if you had ideological opposition to us. I could have understood if you had put forth your own candidate if you had ideological opposition with us. But there was no ideological opposition. Why? Because the person you selected as a candidate (Yashwant Sinha) came from our ranks. Therefore, there was no ideological opposition; your opposition was for an Adivasi daughter. That's why when (P. A.)Sangma ji was contesting the election for the post of President, he was also an Adivasi from the Northeast. He was also meted the same treatment. And to this day Mr Chairman Sir, incidents of disrespect towards the Hon’ble President are not uncommon. It happened for the first time in this country. Such words have been spoken by responsible people (from the Congress) that would make one bow their head in shame. The language used for the President … The unease felt in the heart always finds a way to manifest itself. We have had the opportunity to work for 10 years in the NDA. We first made Dalit (Ram Nath Kovind) and now Adivasi (Droupadi Murmu) as President. We have always prioritized Dalits and Adivasis.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
When I talk about the performance of our government, I talk about the policies of the NDA that focus on the welfare of the poor. If you understand that society up close, who are the beneficiaries ultimately, who are these people? Who are these people living in slums, struggling for life? Which society do they belong to? They have to endure hardships, they have been deprived of facilities, which society is it? Whatever work we have done, it is for this society - the SCs, STs, OBCs, Adivasis. Providing proper homes to those living in slums has benefited my friends from this society. Previously, they struggled with diseases due to lack of cleanliness, now they have benefited from the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan under our initiatives, so that they can have a better life. Our mothers and sisters in these families were enduring health crises by cooking food over smoke, we gave them Ujjwala gas connections and they are from these very families. Whether it is free ration, or free healthcare, the beneficiaries are these very families. All our schemes are meant for these family members from this section of society.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The narrative being presented here, denying facts in this manner, who will benefit from it? By doing so, you are not only losing your credibility but also your integrity.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Here, misleading statistics related to education have also been presented. What kind of effort is being made to mislead? Over the past 10 years, the scholarships provided to SC and ST students have increased. In these 10 years, the enrolment numbers in schools and higher education have also significantly increased, and the dropout rate has decreased rapidly.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Ten years ago, there were 120 Eklavya Model Schools. Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir, today there are 400 Eklavya Model Schools. Why do you deny these facts? Why do you do this? I don't understand this.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Earlier, there was one Central Tribal University, today there are two Central Tribal Universities. It is also true, Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir, that for a long time, Dalit, backward, and tribal sons and daughters could not even see the doors of colleges. I remember when I became the Chief Minister in Gujarat, I was presented with a surprising analysis. Umargam to Ambaji is an entire belt of tribal majority areas in Gujarat. Our Digvijay Singh's son-in-law is also from that area. In that entire area, there was not a single school offering science stream. When I went there, I thought if there is no school for my tribal children in that area offering the science stream, then where would the question of engineering or medical studies arise? Such basic necessities... and what speeches are being given here?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
I want to inform the House and the members should take pride in it. You are sitting in the House, where a government is talking to you about such changes where there has been a significant transformation. Boost the confidence of that society, boost their morale. Let them progress rapidly into the mainstream of the country, let us strive for that, make collective efforts. Look at the enrolment of our tribal, SC, ST students; I want to present some figures. The enrolment of SC students in higher education has increased by 44%. The enrolment of ST students in higher education has increased by 65%. There has been a 45% increase in the enrolment of OBC students in higher education. And when the children of my poor, Dalit, backward, tribal, marginalized families go into higher education, become doctors and engineers, it will create a new environment within that society. Our effort is in that direction... Our effort is to solve the fundamental problems, even though it may take some time, but it should be done in a formidable manner. Therefore, we have put emphasis on education in this manner. If there is a lack of information, please let us know, we will provide you with the information. But do not create such narratives that diminish your dignity, weaken the power of your words. Sometimes, I feel sorry for you.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’! This is not just a slogan; it is Modi's guarantee. And when so much work is being done… Someone sent me a poem. The poem is quite long, but it contains a line:
मोदी की गारंटी का दौर है,
नए भारत की भोर
Out of warranty चल रही दुकानें,
Out of warranty चल रही दुकानें
खोजें अपनी ठोर
(It's the era of Modi's guarantee,
The dawn of New Bharat,
Shops are running out of warranty,
Shops are running out of warranty,
Search for your strength.)
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The attempts to spread despair in the country are understandable for those who have already sunk into the abyss of hopelessness. However, their capability to spread despair is also dwindling. They cannot generate hope. Those immersed in despair themselves cannot offer hope. Those who are spreading despair everywhere across the country, playing this game of spreading despair while denying the truth, will never be able to do any good to themselves or the country.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Every time the same song is sung. Statements are made without considering the facts just only to provoke certain sections of society. I want to present some realities before the country, and I believe the media should debate on such issues so that the truth can be revealed.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Here, various allegations were made against us regarding the government companies. What kinds of allegations are being made? There is no basis to such allegations. Now, let's remember the game that was played with Maruti shares. It used to hog headlines during that time. What was happening with Maruti shares? I don't want to delve into the depths of it, or else they might drown in it and there might be a short circuit here. So, I don't want to delve deep into it.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
It is necessary for the country to know the truth.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
I was born in independent Bharat. My thoughts are also independent, and my dreams are free too. Those who live with a slave mentality have nothing else but old papers to cling to.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The Congress said that we sold PSUs, we ruined PSUs, such kinds of discussions take place here, and I was hearing it from senior people. Remember who destroyed BSNL, MTNL? Which era was it when BSNL, MTNL were ruined? Recall the plight of HAL, how was it destroyed? And then they set the agenda for the 2019 elections by giving speeches at HAL's gate. Those who destroyed HAL were giving speeches at HAL's gate.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Who destroyed Air India? Who brought Air India to such a mess? The Congress party and the UPA cannot turn away from its destruction. The country knows it well. Now, let me share some achievements from our tenure.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
BSNL, which was struggling in the past due to you, has made significant progress in recent years. Today BSNL is moving towards Made in India 4G and 5G and is drawing the attention of the world.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
There were so many myths spread about HAL. Today there is record manufacturing by HAL. HAL is generating record revenue. So many allegations were levelled against HAL and today HAL has become Asia's largest helicopter manufacturing company in Karnataka. Where did you leave it and where we have taken it to?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
A commando, who is not here, would also give highly knowledgeable statements about LIC. This is what has happened to LIC, etc. etc. As much wrong things could be said about LIC, they said. And the method is the same to destroy something – spread rumours, spread lies, spread confusion. The same technique is used when someone desires a big mansion in the village but can't acquire it; then they spread rumours that it's a haunted house. They create such an atmosphere that no one is willing to buy it. When no one shows interest, they eventually grab it. What was done with LIC?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
I want to say this with pride, with my head held high. Today, LIC shares are trading at record levels. Why is that?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Now the propaganda is being spread that PSUs have been shut down, PSUs have been shut down. Now they probably don't even know what the truth is. Somebody just instigated them. In 2014, there were 234 PSUs in the country, in the 10-year era of the UPA. When they were voted out in 2014, this figure was 234. Today there are 254 PSUs. Now, which arithmetic do they know? They say we have sold out PSUs. If we have sold out PSUs, then how come there are 254 PSUs now? What are you all doing?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Today, most PSUs are providing record returns, and investors' confidence in PSUs is increasing. Even those who know a little about the stock market understand this. If you don't understand, ask someone. Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir, during the past year, there has been nearly a two-fold jump in the BSE PSU Index.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Ten years ago, i.e., 2014. I am talking about the period between 2004 and 2014. The net profit of PSUs was approximately one and a quarter lakh crore rupees. And in these ten years, the net profit of PSUs has increased to two and a half lakh crore rupees. In the past decade, the net worth of PSUs has increased from 9.5 lakh crore rupees to 17 lakh crore rupees.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Wherever they intervene, it is destined to sink. They had created such a state of affairs. We have worked hard and brought the PSUs out of that situation. You should be happy, do not spread illusions and do not spread such rumours in the market that confuse the ordinary investors of the country. You cannot do such a thing.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Their limit is such that now they have turned their prince into a start-up. Right now, he is a non-starter. He is neither taking off nor launching.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
If you (the Congress members) had stayed this calm last time as well, it would have been so much fun.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Congratulations! Congratulations! Congratulations! Congratulations to everyone!
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
It has been my privilege to serve the country and the people as the Chief Minister of a state for a long time. Therefore, I understand regional aspirations very well because I emerged from that process myself. Leaders like Digvijay ji, who is sitting here, naturally understands what it means for a state because we come from the same world. We have the experience, we know. Sharad Pawar ji knows, and people like Deve Gowda Sahab understand all these things. So, we understand the importance of it. We don't have to read about it in books; we have experienced it firsthand. And this is also the truth for everyone. For about ten years, the entire machinery of the UPA government was focused on doing something or the other for Gujarat. You can't imagine. But I don't shed tears; it's not my habit to cry. But even then, despite facing numerous crises, despite enduring all kinds of atrocities, my problem was such that I couldn't even get an appointment with a minister here. They would say, "Brother, you know, I'm friends with you, I'll talk to you on the phone, but if there is a photograph of us (in any newspaper)…” They were so scared. Ministers were scared here. Well, anyway, I can understand their difficulties now. Once, a major natural disaster struck in my state. I made so many requests to the Prime Minister to come and see it for himself. His schedule was arranged. There was an advisory committee then, maybe the order came from there that someone should conduct an aerial inspection by helicopter. I could understand that. Suddenly, he changed the program and went to some other state in the south. I don't remember which one today. I was told "We will see from the airplane, we will not come to Gujarat." I was in Surat, he was about to come. I know what must have happened in the end. So, you can imagine, I have faced such difficulties even during natural disasters. But despite that, my mantra then and even today is that the development of the state is crucial for the development of the country. The development of Gujarat is essential for the development of Bharat. And we all should follow this path. We will only be able to achieve the nation's development through the development of states. There can be no dispute about this, no dispute at all. And I assure you, Mr Chairman Sir, that if a state takes one step, I am ready to take two steps forward. What is cooperative federalism? And I have always advocated about Competitive Cooperative federalism. Today the country needs Competitive Cooperative federalism. There should be healthy competition among our states so that our country can progress rapidly. We need to move forward with a positive mindset. And even when I was in the state, I worked with these same principles. That's why I silently endured.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
COVID is an example. It was the world’s biggest crisis. During such a crisis, we held 20 meetings with the Chief Ministers of the states. We discussed every aspect, took everyone along, formed a team, and both the Centre and the states worked together. The world which could not tackle the crisis … Together, we did everything possible to save this country. I will never credit just one person... Together, we did everything possible to save this country. States also have the full right to take credit for it. And we worked in this spirit.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
We could have organized the G-20 summit in Delhi. By staying among these prominent leaders in Delhi, we could have achieved everything. This has happened before. But we did not do that. We wanted all the states to take credit for the success of the G-20. We held one meeting in Delhi... and 200 meetings in the states... giving each state exposure on the world stage. This was not a mistake; it was planned. For me, it's not about whose government it is. I don't run the country based on that. We all want to move the country forward together, and that's the role we've played.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
When foreign leaders used to come to our country … It is not that they are coming here after I became Prime Minister. They used to come earlier. And if foreign leaders come today, then I urge them to visit a state at least for a day. I take them to the states so that they understand that my country is not just Delhi. My country is also in Chennai. My country is also in Bengaluru. My country is also in Hyderabad. My country is also in Puri, Bhubaneswar. My country is also in Kolkata. My country is also in Guwahati. We are making efforts to ensure that the entire world gets the exposure of every corner of my country. We do not judge the support or opposition of the state government on this scale. With honesty and for the future of this country, we try to make the whole world aware of Bharat. Even after such a big event (Republic Day) on January 26, everyone knows, yet on the 25th, I was roaming the streets of Rajasthan with the President of France, letting the world know about Rajasthan.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
We have undertaken a very major program that is being discussed globally as a model - aspirational districts. The success of aspirational districts is largely attributed to the support of my states, accounting for 80 per cent. The support provided by the states indicates their understanding of my vision for aspirational districts. Today, I am receiving 80 per cent support from the states to further advance the aspirational districts program. I am getting the support from the district-level officers. And states that were lagging behind the national average are now competing with it, districts that were once considered backward are now competing with the national average. All of this is possible with cooperation. Therefore, the structure of our programs is to move forward together and work together to build the future of the country. Today, every corner of the country, every family should reap the benefits of development; this is our collective responsibility, and we want to move in that direction. We also want to ensure that every state receives its due share. However, today I want to express my anguish on an important issue.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
A nation is not just a piece of land for us. It is a unit that inspires. Just as a body has various limbs and organs, if a thorn pricks the foot, the foot doesn't say, "Why me?" The hand doesn't think “Why should I bother, the thorn has pricked the foot. The foot will do its job.” In a moment, the hand reaches the foot and removes the thorn. When a thorn pricks the foot, the eye doesn't say, "Why should I cry?" Tears flow from the eye. If there is pain in any corner of Bharat, everyone should feel the pain. If one part of the body is not functioning well, the entire body is considered disabled. Just as a body, if any part of the country, any region of the country, remains deprived of development, the nation cannot progress. Therefore, we should view Bharat as an integrated unit. We should not see it in fragments. The way language is being spoken these days, new narratives are being created to divide the country for political selfishness. An entire government has hit the streets and is engaging in divisive language. What could be a bigger misfortune for the country, you tell me?
If a tribal child from Jharkhand goes to the Olympics and wins a medal, do we think, "This is a child of Jharkhand," or does the whole country say, "This is a child of our nation"? When we see talent in a child from Jharkhand and the country spends thousands or lakhs of rupees to send him to another country for better coaching, then should we think that this expenditure is for Jharkhand, or is it not for the entire country? What are we doing, what language are we beginning to speak? This affects the pride of the nation. When it comes to vaccines, crores of people are given vaccines. Will we say that the vaccine was developed in that particular place, therefore it is their right, not the country's. Can we think like that? If the vaccine was developed in that city, will other parts of the country not benefit from it? Will we think like that? Is this the kind of thinking we are adopting? It is very unfortunate if such thoughts develop in a national party.
I want to ask Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
If the Himalayas were to start saying, “These rivers flow from here. I won’t give you water. The right to water is mine," what would happen to the country? Where would the country go? If the states with coal were to say, "You won't get coal, this is our property, go spend your life in darkness," how would the country function?
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
During the COVID times, when the entire country needed oxygen, the possibilities of oxygen were in the industries of the eastern region. If, at that time, the people from the east had simply said, "We cannot provide oxygen, our people need it, the country will get nothing," what would have happened to the country? Despite enduring the crisis, they ensured that oxygen reached the country. What kind of effort is being made to fragment these sentiments within the country? Speaking in such a manner about “our taxes, our money” could pose a new threat to the country's future. Let's stop searching for new narratives to divide the country. The country has to move ahead. Let's strive to move the country forward together.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Over the past 10 years, the policies and programs have been aimed at showcasing the new direction of New Bharat. The direction we have embraced, the construction work we have undertaken, our entire focus over the past decade has remained on ensuring that basic amenities are provided.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Every family's standard of living should improve, and their Ease of Living should increase. Now the demand of the time is - how can we enhance the Quality of Life for them? In the coming days, we want to move forward from Ease of Living to Quality of Life with all our strength and capability. We are committed to advancing in that direction and we will ensure that.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
In the next 5 years, we are making concerted efforts to reach out to the Neo Middle Class, who have emerged from poverty, and to empower them to new heights. Therefore, we are further strengthening the ‘Modi Shield’ of social justice and providing more support to it.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
These days, when we say that 25 crore people have emerged from poverty, a fallacious argument is presented that if 25 crore people have come out of poverty, then why are we providing food and grains to 80 crore people.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
We know that even if a sick person is discharged from the hospital, the doctor advises him to take certain precautions, to be careful with their diet, to rest, and to avoid certain activities, so that he does not end up in trouble again. Similarly, those who have emerged from poverty need to be taken care of more so that they don't slip back into poverty again if any crisis befalls them. That's why they need to be strengthened. At this time, we have made the poor stronger so that the Neo Middle Class does not fall back into that hell again. We provide Ayushman Bharat health insurance of 5 lakh rupees, and this has a purpose behind it. If an illness strikes a middle-class person's family, it doesn't take long for them to become poor. That's why it's as important to come out of poverty as it is to ensure that one doesn't accidentally slip back into poverty. That's why we provide grains, and we will continue to provide them. Whether someone likes it or not, 25 crore people have come out of poverty. They have become part of the Neo Middle Class. But I understand, I have lived in that world. They need it more, and that's why our scheme will continue.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The country knows, and that's why I have guaranteed that the facility for treatment up to 5 lakh rupees for the poor will continue to be available in the future. This is my guarantee, Modi's guarantee. The medicines available at an 80% discount, which benefit the middle class and the poor, will continue to be available.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
This is Modi’s guarantee that the Samman Nidhi being provided to farmers will continue, so that they can actively participate in the journey of development with strength.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
My campaign is to provide permanent homes to the poor. If a family grows, a new family is formed, my program to provide permanent homes will continue. The piped water scheme, it's my firm commitment, and my guarantee is that we will continue to provide water through pipelines. If there is a need to build new toilets, then I guarantee that we will continue to do so. These works will progress rapidly because we do not want to slow down the path of development, the direction of development that we have taken, under any circumstances.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The third term of our government is not far away. Some people call it Modi 3.0. Modi 3.0 will exert full force to strengthen the foundation of a ‘Viksit Bharat’.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
In the next five years, the number of doctors in Bharat will increase manifold compared to before. The number of medical colleges will also increase. Treatment in this country will become much cheaper and more accessible.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
In the next five years, every poor household will have a tap water connection.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
In the coming five years, every eligible beneficiary will receive a PM Awas (housing) unit, ensuring that no one is left behind. Additionally, over the next five years, solar power will be utilized to bring down electricity bills to zero for millions of citizens. Through proper planning, individuals will have the opportunity to generate income by producing electricity at home and selling it. This is part of our program for the next five years.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Over the next five years, there will be a concerted effort to establish a comprehensive network for piped gas connections throughout the country.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
In the coming five years, the world will witness the power of our youth. You will see Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir, our start-ups and the unicorns by the youth will number in the millions. And not only that, Tier 2, Tier 3 cities are going to emerge with a new identity through these new start-ups. This is the vision of the next five years that I can see.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
You will see the impact of reserve funding on its growth. In the next five years, I foresee when the number of patents will break previous records, surpassing the patents filed in the past seven decades.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Today, lakhs of middle-class children from my country go abroad for their education. I want to create a situation where my children can save lakhs of rupees. Dreams of the middle class in my country should come true. The best universities should be in my country. The highest education should be available to them in my country, and that's why I'm saying this so that my children and their families can save money.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
In the coming five years, you will see no international sports competition where the flag of Bharat is not flying high. I foresee the recognition of the power of the youth of Bharat in the world of sports over the next five years.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
In the next five years, Bharat’s public transport is going to undergo a complete transformation. Over the next five years, the facilities for affordable and luxurious travel will be readily available to both the poor and the middle class. These facilities will be easily and rapidly accessible. In the coming five years, the country will witness the introduction of bullet trains, as well as the expansion of the Vande Bharat Express trains.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
In the next five years, the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) campaign will reach new heights. The country will be seen as self-reliant in every sector.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
In the coming 5 years, "Made in India" semiconductor technology will resonate worldwide. Every electronic device will contain a chip where some Indian's sweat will be involved.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
In the next five years, the country will witness a new momentum in the global electronics market.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Today, our country imports billions of rupees worth of oil. In the direction of becoming more self-reliant for our energy needs, we will work tirelessly, and I believe we will succeed in reducing the dependency on energy requirements. Not only that, Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir, we are moving forward to entice the world market with the Green Hydrogen campaign. Our Green Hydrogen will have the capability to fulfil energy needs. We are progressing rapidly in the world of ethanol. By achieving a 20 per cent target, we will ensure cheaper transportation for our people.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
When I talk about 20 per cent ethanol, its direct benefit will happen to the farmers of my country, who are going to witness a new progress. We call ourselves an agriculture-oriented nation, but even today, we have to import billions of rupees worth of cooking oil from outside. I have faith in our farmers, and I firmly believe that with the policies we are implementing in the field of edible oil, my country will become self-reliant very soon, within 5 years. And the money saved will go into the pockets of the farmers of my country, which currently goes into foreign markets.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Due to chemical farming, our Mother Earth is suffering a lot of damage. In the coming five years, we will successfully lead the farmers of our country towards natural farming. It will be a work of awakening, ensuring the protection of our Mother Earth.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The growth of natural farming will also increase the value of our products in the global market.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Through the UN, I launched a campaign for millets. We have given recognition to it in the form of ‘Shree Anna’. I can see the day not far away when in the coming five years, millets grown in the small homes of my village will gain recognition in the world market as a superfood.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Drones are going to emerge as a new tool of power for farmers in fields. We have already launched the program of "15 Thousand Drone Didi Initiative". This is just the beginning; much success lies ahead.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
We have been successful in implementing nanotechnology in agriculture so far. We have achieved great success with Nano urea. We have succeeded in the direction of Nano DAP. And today, the day is not far when a farmer carrying a sack of fertilizer will be able to work with just a bottle of fertilizer.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
We have established a new ministry in the cooperative sector. The aim behind it is to revitalize the entire cooperative movement with new vigour and it emerges according to the needs of the 21st century. We are also undertaking the task of setting up two lakh storage facilities, which will be completed within five years. This will provide small farmers with a place to store their produce. The farmer will decide at what price to sell or not to sell his produce in the market. The fear of wastage of his produce will be eliminated, and the economic strength of the farmer will increase. I confidently say that animal husbandry and fish farming are going to set new records. Currently, we have a good number of animals here, but milk production is low. We will change this trend. I also believe that we will rapidly develop in the world of fishing exports. We have started the program of forming Farmers Producer Organizations (FPOs), and the experience has been very good. Within five years, the power of a new organization of farmers and the value in agricultural production will definitely be available to the farmers of my country.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
The success of the G-20 has made it clear. After COVID, we have seen the openness in the world, and the biggest benefit of this openness is that the world's attention has turned towards Bharat. Therefore, a very large sector of tourism is going to flourish in the coming days, which will provide the most employment. Today, there are many countries in the world whose entire economy depends on tourism. In Bharat too, many states can become such where the largest part of the economy will be tourism. And the day is not far when Bharat will become a very big tourist destination with the policies we are pursuing.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
It was not considered much before and people used to mock us when I talked about Digital India or FinTech. It seemed absurd to people and they thought I was talking ‘out of work’. However, I can confidently say Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir, that in the coming five years, Bharat will dominate in the world of the digital economy. Bharat is going to become a new force. Today, digital systems are enhancing the capabilities of Bharat. The world believes that if any country has the capability to utilize AI the most, it will be Bharat. My country will utilize the latest technology to its fullest potential.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
Our country’s name is shining in the world of space. The achievements of our scientists are becoming evident. As for the program for the coming five years, I do not wish to express it in words today. I firmly believe that our scientists will lead Bharat to astonish the world in the direction of space exploration.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
There is a significant change happening in the grassroots level economy. Our 10 crore mothers and sisters are joining the self-help groups and three crore of our ‘Lakhpati Didis’! They are writing the saga of excellence of our daughters in their own right.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
There are many diverse areas where I see clear progress in the coming five years where Bharat used to be unheard of in such areas. There was a golden age, and I envision the day, not far from now, when over the next five years, we will establish a strong foundation, and by the time we reach 2047, this country will relive that golden age. With this belief, Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir, ‘Viksit Bharat’ is not just a play of words. It is our commitment, and for this, we are dedicated. Every breath of ours is committed for that work, every moment of ours is committed for that work and our every thought is dedicated to that work. With that same sentiment, we are marching forward, will continue to march, and the country will keep advancing. I assure you of that. The centuries to come will mark this golden era in history. This belief resonates within me because I understand the mood of the people of the country very well. The nation has witnessed the experience of change in the past 10 years. The rapid pace of change seen will bring about new heights, new strengths in every aspect of life. Achieving every resolution is part of our work ethic.
Hon’ble Mr Chairman Sir,
All of you presented your views in this House, and I have had the opportunity to speak the truth before the nation amidst the sanctity of this House. I believe that the nation cannot listen to those whose warranty has expired. Believing in the ideas of those whose strength of guarantee has been seen, the nation will move forward.
I once again express my heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble Chairman Sir, and extend my respectful greetings and thanks to the Hon’ble President for her address. With this, I conclude my remarks. Thank you very much.
