On May 4th, the Rudraksh International Convention Centre hosted the Viksit Bharat Ambassador Dialogue, an event focused on the transformative potential of collective efforts to create a developed India by 2047. Spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar led the dialogue, which drew over 1,200 distinguished individuals from Varanasi's diverse spectrum, including Padma awardees, artists, industrialists, professionals, and influencers. The event called for national progress and aimed to unite people for a common cause.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar passionately rallied the audience to embrace the role of a Viksit Bharat Ambassador, proclaiming, "Every individual has started walking towards Viksit Bharat. Everyone should do it. Those who come out of a negative mindset and think of India's bright future - I consider all of them Viksit Bharat Ambassadors..."

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also commended Sanatan Dharma and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Kashi's transformative facelift. He praised Sanatan Dharma for its blend of ancient practices and modern values, emphasizing its tradition of respect and inclusivity towards all sections of society.

He highlighted India's rapid development and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a global leader, comparing him to the legendary sage Vishwamitra. He noted India's growing stature in the world and its achievements in space exploration, such as reaching the Moon and Mars, while retaining traditional values amidst modern progress. Kashi exemplifies this balance, having undergone significant economic development, road infrastructure improvements, and rejuvenation of the Ganga ghats.

Following the event, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar convened with 30 influential local figures, cementing partnerships for collective action and advocacy towards Viksit Bharat's objectives.

Reflecting on Varanasi's rejuvenation, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar extolled the city's rich heritage and commendable transformation under Prime Minister Modi's leadership. He remarked, "Kashi is India's heritage... 10 years ago, people could not even fathom that Kashi could be so beautiful and accessible for people in such a short span of time."

Reflecting on the inauguration of the Kashi Vishwanath corridor, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar specifically lauded PM Modi's humility in acknowledging and honouring the labourers, recounting an incident where PM Modi washed the feet of workers and received a flower shower—an act that surprised and impressed everyone present.

"I was amazed by the gesture of PM Modi. Before addressing the devotees, he went to the shramiks, washed their feet, and got a flower shower done on them. The saints and sages present there were initially taken aback as it was they who were entitled to such treatment. But the Prime Minister re-wrote the rules and gave the workers their due. I was also awestruck over his conduct," Sri Sri Ravi Shankar remarked.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar emphasized PM Modi's efforts in strengthening India's civilizational values, spiritual beliefs, and cultural heritage, particularly recognizing his respect for traditional practices like honouring the Sengol.

"Nobody other than PM Modi cared to give respect to the Sengol. It was he who stood for the country's heritage and gave Sengol the respect it deserved," said Sri Sri.

He criticized attempts by the West to defame the Indian government due to India's rapid progress across various sectors.

The Vision of Viksit Bharat: 140 crore dreams, 1 purpose

The Viksit Bharat Ambassador movement aims to encourage citizens to take responsibility for contributing to India's development. VBA meet-ups and events are being organized in various parts of the country to achieve this goal. These events provide a platform for participants to engage in constructive discussions, exchange ideas, and explore practical strategies for contributing to the movement.

Join the movement on the NaMo App

https://www.narendramodi.in/ViksitBharatAmbassador

The NaMo App: Bridging the Gap

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's app, the NaMo App, is a digital bridge that empowers citizens to participate in the Viksit Bharat Ambassador movement
. The NaMo App serves as a one-stop platform for individuals to:

Join the cause: Sign up and become a Viksit Bharat Ambassador and make 10 other people

Amplify Development Stories: Access updates, news, and resources related to the movement.

Create/Join Events: Create and discover local events, meet-ups, and volunteer opportunities.

Connect/Network: Find and interact with like-minded individuals who share the vision of a developed India.

The 'VBA Event' section in the 'Onground Tasks' tab of the 'Volunteer Module' of the NaMo App allows users to stay updated with the ongoing VBA events.

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Global aerospace firms turn to India amid Western supply chain crisis

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Global aerospace firms turn to India amid Western supply chain crisis
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The World This Week On India
February 18, 2025

This week, India reinforced its position as a formidable force on the world stage, making headway in artificial intelligence, energy security, space exploration, and defence. From shaping global AI ethics to securing strategic partnerships, every move reflects India's growing influence in global affairs.

And when it comes to diplomacy and negotiation, even world leaders acknowledge India's strength. Former U.S. President Donald Trump, known for his tough negotiating style, put it simply:

“[Narendra Modi] is a much tougher negotiator than me, and he is a much better negotiator than me. There’s not even a contest.”

With India actively shaping global conversations, let’s take a look at some of the biggest developments this week.

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AI for All: India and France Lead a Global Movement

The future of AI isn’t just about technology—it’s about ethics and inclusivity. India and France co-hosted the Summit for Action on AI in Paris, where 60 countries backed a declaration calling for AI that is "open," "inclusive," and "ethical." As artificial intelligence becomes a geopolitical battleground, India is endorsing a balanced approach—one that ensures technological progress without compromising human values.

A Nuclear Future: India and France Strengthen Energy Security

In a world increasingly focused on clean energy, India is stepping up its nuclear power game. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed their commitment to developing small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs), a paradigm shift in the transition to a low-carbon economy. With energy security at the heart of India’s strategy, this collaboration is a step toward long-term sustainability.

Gaganyaan: India’s Space Dream Inches Closer

India’s ambitions to send astronauts into space took a major leap forward as the budget for the Gaganyaan mission was raised to $2.32 billion. This is more than just a scientific milestone—it’s about proving that India is ready to stand alongside the world’s leading space powers. A successful human spaceflight will set the stage for future interplanetary missions, pushing India's space program to new frontiers.

India’s Semiconductor Push: Lam Research Bets Big

The semiconductor industry is the backbone of modern technology, and India wants a bigger share of the pie. US chip toolmaker Lam Research announced a $1 billion investment in India, signalling confidence in the country’s potential to become a global chip manufacturing hub. As major companies seek alternatives to traditional semiconductor strongholds like Taiwan, India is positioning itself as a serious contender in the global supply chain.

Defence Partnerships: A New Era in US-India Military Ties

The US and India are expanding their defence cooperation, with discussions of a future F-35 fighter jet deal on the horizon. The latest agreements also include increased US military sales to India, strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. Meanwhile, India is also deepening its energy cooperation with the US, securing new oil and gas import agreements that reinforce economic and security ties.

Energy Security: India Locks in LNG Supply from the UAE

With global energy markets facing volatility, India is taking steps to secure long-term energy stability. New multi-billion-dollar LNG agreements with ADNOC will provide India with a steady and reliable supply of natural gas, reducing its exposure to price fluctuations. As India moves toward a cleaner energy future, such partnerships are critical to maintaining energy security while keeping costs in check.

UAE Visa Waiver: A Boon for Indian Travelers

For Indians residing in Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, visiting the UAE just became a lot simpler. A new visa waiver, effective February 13, will save Dh750 per person and eliminate lengthy approval processes. This move makes travel to the UAE more accessible and strengthens business and cultural ties between the two countries.

A Gift of Friendship: Trump’s Gesture to Modi

During his visit to India, Donald Trump presented Prime Minister Modi with a personalized book chronicling their long-standing friendship. Beyond the usual diplomatic formalities, this exchange reflects the personal bonds that sometimes shape international relations as much as policies do.

Memory League Champion: India’s New Star of Mental Speed

India is making its mark in unexpected ways, too. Vishvaa Rajakumar, a 20-year-old Indian college student, stunned the world by memorizing 80 random numbers in just 13.5 seconds, winning the Memory League World Championship. His incredible feat underscores India’s growing reputation for mental agility and cognitive excellence on the global stage.

India isn’t just participating in global affairs—it’s shaping them. Whether it’s setting ethical AI standards, securing energy independence, leading in space exploration, or expanding defence partnerships, the country is making bold, strategic moves that solidify its role as a global leader.

As the world takes note of India’s rise, one thing is clear: this journey is just getting started.