Top takeaways from PM Modi's Independence Day speech

Published By : Admin | August 15, 2024 | 15:04 IST

Following are the highlights from his Speech

1. General

We have only one resolve - Nation First. For us, national interest is paramount.

Bharat's reputation has enhanced globally, and the world's perception of Bharat has shifted.

If 140 crore citizens of my country, 140 crores of my family members set out with a resolution, determine a direction and march forward step by step, shoulder to shoulder, no matter how great the challenges, how intense the scarcity or the struggle for resources, we can overcome every challenge and build a prosperous Bharat and achieve the goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.

The commitment to live for the country can create a Viksit Bharat.

Every citizen's dream & resolution is evident in the commitment of Viksit Bharat 2047.

In today’s India, there is no place for a Mai-Baap culture.

When the people of this nation possess such broad thinking and grand dreams, when their resolve is reflected in these words, it strengthens a new resolve within us.

I extend my deep respect to the greats who are protecting the country with full dedication and commitment for national defence and nation building.

Our patriotic zeal and faith in democracy have become an inspiration for the world.

We have moved from the stale status-quo mindset to one of growth and reforms.

Our path of reforms has become a blueprint for growth.

This is a ‘Golden Era for Bharat’ in terms of opportunities, despite gloomy global conditions.

We must not let this opportunity slip away. If we seize this moment and move forward with our dreams and resolutions, we will fulfil the nation's aspirations for a 'Swarnim Bharat' (Golden India) and achieve our goal of a developed Bharat by 2047.

A new and modern system is being established in every field, be it the tourism sector, MSMEs, education, healthcare, transport, agriculture, or the farming sector.

We aim to advance in line with our country’s unique conditions while adopting the best practices from around the world.

Every sector requires modernization and innovation, with an emphasis on integrating technology.

Less government interference in the lives of ordinary citizens is an important part of our vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

At least two annual reforms in each of the 3 lakh institutions operating across the country are mandated, then it could result in around 25-30 lakh reforms annually leading to increased confidence of common man.

Our aim is to accelerate progress in every sector, focusing on three key areas. Firstly, we must create new opportunities across all sectors. Secondly, we should work towards strengthening the supporting infrastructure required for evolving systems. And thirdly, we must prioritize and enhance the basic amenities for our citizens.

Natural catastrophes are becoming a huge cause of concern for us.

I express my deepest condolences to all those affected by recent natural disasters and assure that the nation stands with them in this hour of crisis.

Compassion is central to our approach. We are moving forward with both equality and compassion at the core of our work.

We are here to serve each of you, every family and every region.

To pursue the dream of a developed India, from the ramparts of the Red Fort today, I bow my head in gratitude and thank the crores of countrymen for blessing us and choosing us to serve the nation.
I assure you all that we have to move forward to new heights, with a new zeal.

We are not amongst those who watch from the sides and revel in the glory of small achievements.

We are from a culture of seekers of new knowledge and resilience; the go-getters who relentlessly aspire for higher achievements.

We want to scale newer heights of development and we wish to inculcate this habit among our citizens.

There is a certain section of people who cannot think beyond their own welfare and do not care about the well-being of others. Such individuals, with their distorted mindset, are a concern. The country must avoid these people, who are mired in despair.

These pessimistic elements are not merely hopeless; they are nurturing a negative mindset that dreams of destruction and seeks to undermine our collective progress. The country needs to recognize this threat.

I want to assure my fellow citizens that with our good intentions, integrity, and dedication to the nation, we will win over even those who oppose us.

We will leave no stone unturned in fulfilling our commitments, changing the destiny of 140 crore citizens, securing their future, and realizing the nation's dreams.

Corruption at all levels has shattered the common man’s faith in the system.

I want to create an environment of fear for the corrupt, so the tradition of looting the common citizen comes to an end.

The attempt to sow such seeds in society, the glorification of corruption, and the continuous efforts to increase the acceptance of the corrupt have become a significant challenge for a healthy society and a matter of great concern.

The Constitution has been instrumental in fortifying Bharat's democracy for the last 75 years. It has safeguarded the rights of our dalits, the oppressed, the exploited and the deprived sections of the society.

It is crucial for citizens to focus on the duties enshrined in the Constitution as we celebrate 75 years of our Constitution.

The responsibility of abiding by the duties extends beyond just the citizens to various institutions of the country.

When we all fulfil our responsibilities collectively, we naturally become guardians of each other’s rights.

By performing our duties, we inherently protect these rights without needing any additional effort.

Dynastic politics and casteism are causing significant harm to the democracy of Bharat.

We must align our aspirations and our efforts to ensure that the 21st century, destined to be the century of Bharat, becomes a ‘Swarnim Bharat’ (Golden India), and make ‘Viksit Bharat’ in this century and advance towards fulfilling those dreams.

I live for you, I live for your future, I live for the bright future of Mother India.

 

2. Ministry of Defence

We are becoming self-reliant in the defence sector.

India has gradually emerged and is establishing itself as an exporter and manufacturer of various Defence Equipment.

When our armed forces conduct Surgical Strikes, our heart fills with pride and our heads are held high.

140 crore Indians today feel proud and confident of episodes of valour of our armed forces.

 

3. Ministry of Finance

India is proud of its success in the ‘Fintech’ sector.

We have successfully doubled the per capita income of individuals.

We have made significant strides in setting new records in employment and self-employment

Multiple reforms were implemented to strengthen the banking sector. And today, as a result, our banks have secured their place among the selected strong banks in the world.

Strong banking system becomes the greatest strength to meet the needs of the common poor, especially middle-class families.

Banks are the biggest support for our MSMEs.

Various under-privileged sections of society like the cattle-rearers, fishermen, street vendors are now connecting with banks and are achieving new heights, and becoming partners in the path to development.

Numerous financial policies are being continuously developed to advance the nation and the country's trust in these new systems is steadily growing.

If there was any country that has swiftly improved its economy amidst the global covid pandemic, it is Bharat.

Development of modern infrastructure & Ease of Living should be focused to catapult our economic growth and development.

In the past decade, we have witnessed humongous infrastructure development by providing state of art railways, airport, ports, and robust roadways network to ensure government connectivity.

I urge all elected representatives, regardless of party or state, to take steps on a mission mode to ensure Ease of Living.

India is bound to become the third-largest economy during my third term, and that I will work three times harder, at three times the speed and with three times the scale so that the dreams we have for the nation are realized sooner.

 

4. Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare

Transformation in the agriculture sector is the crucial need of the hour.

I am grateful to all the farmers who have chosen the path of natural farming and taken a resolve to serve our Mother Earth.

Substantial schemes with significant provisions were introduced in this year’s budget to promote and support organic farming.

We must strengthen the nutrition of the world and also support the small farmers of India.

India and her farmers have the potential to create a global food basket of organic food.

Sixty thousand ‘Amrit Sarovars’ (ponds) have been revived and replenished.

 

5. Ministry of External Affairs

G-20 was never held in such a grand manner before.

Bharat has the capability to organize major international events and possesses unparalleled hospitality.

External challenges, in particular, are likely to escalate.

I want to convey to such forces that the development of Bharat does not mean a threat to anyone.

We are the land of Buddha, and war is not our path. Therefore, the world need not worry.

I hope that the situation in Bangladesh soon returns to normalcy, especially given our proximity as a neighbouring country.

The primary concern of our 140 crore citizens is to ensure the safety of Hindus, the minorities in Bangladesh.

Bharat has always desired that our neighbouring countries pursue a path of contentment and peace.

Our commitment to peace is deeply rooted in our culture.

6. Ministry of Communication

Optical fibre networks have already been installed in two lakhs Panchayats.

India is already working in mission mode for 6G and we shall surprise the world with our progress.

7. Department of Space

Space sector is opening up a new future for us.

India is seeing a surge in startups in the space sector.

Today, private satellites and rockets are being launched in our own country.

The success of Chandrayaan mission has piqued a new atmosphere of interest in science and technology in our schools and colleges.

 

8. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

We chose the path of reforms to bring about change in the lives of the poor, the middle class, the underprivileged, our growing urban population, the dreams and resolutions of the youth & their aspirations.

When political leadership is determined to bring empowerment and is resolute towards development, then the government machinery also starts enabling and ensuring robust implementations.

When every citizen starts participating actively towards ensuring empowerment and development, then the outcomes are bound to be valuable for the nation.

Last mile connectivity has ensured every village and even forest zones get a school, modern hospitals and Arogya mandirs are built in faraway geographies to provide affordable healthcare to the marginalised through Ayushman Bharat schemes.

When the mantra of saturation is embraced, the true essence of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" is realized.

When we lift 25 crore people out of poverty, it reinforces our belief that we have maintained our momentum, and our dreams will soon be fulfilled.

When my specially-abled brothers and sisters start communicating in the Indian sign language, or benefit from the campaign of inclusive and accessible nation through Sugamya Bharat, s/he feels respected and enjoys dignity as a citizen of the country.

It is amazing to see our sportspersons come out in flying colors in Paralympics.

Equitable decisions with high sensitivity towards our ostracized transgender society were undertaken by bringing amendments and introducing new laws for their incursion into the mainstream and ensuring dignity, respect and equality for all.

We have embarked onto the ‘Trividh Marg’ (three-way route) and are seeing a direct benefit of the spirit of service to all.

It is our duty to make every effort to include the neglected regions, the marginalized communities, our small farmers, tribal brothers and sisters in the forests, our mothers and sisters, our laborers,and our workers, ensuring they are uplifted and empowered.

 

9. Ministry of Education

75,000 new seats will be introduced in the medical sector in the next 5 years.

Through the new education policy, we want to transform the current education system in line with the requirements of the 21st century.

We will revive the spirit of ancient Nalanda University, positioning India as a global education hub by promoting higher learning and research.

We have to prepare future ready skilled resources in India to meet the expectations of the fast-paced development.

We want to develop an education system so that the youth of our country don’t need to go abroad. Our middle-class families need not spend lakhs and crores of rupees. Not only that, we also want to create such institutions that attract people from abroad to come to Bharat instead.

India’s talent should not be hindered because of language. The strength of the mother tongue empowers even the poorest child in our country to fulfil their dreams.

‘National Research Foundation’ was created, providing it with a legal framework to develop a permanent system that continuously strengthens research.

It is a matter of great pride that we have decided to allocate one lakh crore rupees for research and innovation in the Budget so that the ideas of our country’s youth can be realized.

 

10. Ministry of Tribal Affairs

Youngsters, farmers, women and tribals, everyone fought continuously against slavery.

We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the benefits of PM Jan Mann schemes reach each of tribal brethren at various remote settlements in villages, hills and forests.

As we approach the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, let us draw inspiration from his legacy.

 

11. Ministry of Women & Child Development

We have launched the National Nutrition Mission with special focus on the first generation of Viksit Bharat.

10 crore women have become a part of women self-help groups in the last decade.

Women become guarantors and custodians of social transformation when they are financially empowered.

One crore mothers and sisters joined women self-help groups and are becoming ‘lakhpati didis’.

Funds allocated to women self-help groups will be increased from 10 lakhs to 20 lakhs.

Till date, a total of nine lakh crore funds has been channeled via banks to these self-help groups.

The paid maternity leave was extended from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for working women by our Government.

Women are taking on leadership roles. Today, in many areas—be it our defence sector, the Air Force, the Army, the Navy, or our space sector—we are witnessing the strength and capabilities of our women.

As a society we should seriously dwell upon the atrocities being meted out to our mother, sisters and daughters.

Crimes against women should be investigated without any delay. Those committing such demonic acts must be booked prima facie to reinstate the trust on the government, judiciary and civil society.

The need of the hour is that there should be a wide discussion about the criminals who get punished so that even those who commit such sins fear the consequences including hanging to death. I feel that it is very important to create this fear.

 

12. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India must tread the path of ‘Swasth Bharat’.

India achieved the fastest vaccination drive of crores of population against Covid.

 

13. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

India’s focus is now on green growth and green jobs

Green jobs are imperative in India's efforts to combat climate change.

India commits to become a global hub through the Green Hydrogen Mission.

India was a pioneer in banning single-use plastics and to significantly advance our renewable energy efforts.

India has been the only country among the G20 nations to meet its Paris Accord goals, ahead of time.

We have met our renewable energy targets and are ambitiously working towards reaching the target of 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030.

 

14. Ministry of Commerce and Industry

“Vocal for Local” has become a new mantra for economic development.

“One District One Product” is the new wave now.

Bharat will become an industrial manufacturing hub and the world will look up to it.

We must embrace the call of "Design in India" and move forward with the dream of "Design in India and Design for the World."

State governments should establish clear policies to attract investments, offer assurances of good governance, and ensure confidence in the law-and-order situation.

India's commits to become a global leader in semiconductor production

India must leverage its rich ancient legacy and literature to come up with Made in India gaming products.

Indian professionals must lead the global gaming market, not just in playing but also in producing games.

Indian standards should aspire to become international benchmarks.

Bharat's contribution to global growth is substantial, our exports are continuously rising, our foreign exchange reserves have doubled, and global institutions have increasingly placed their trust in Bharat.

We are proud that our toy industry has also become a name to reckon with in the global market. We have started exporting toys.

There was a time when mobile phones were being imported, but today India has a large hub of manufacturing ecosystem of mobile phones and we have started exporting them all over the world. Such is the prowess of India.

 

15. Ministry of Railways

Government is committed to make its railways a net-zero carbon emitter by 2030.

 

16. Ministry of Jal Shakti

Every family today is embracing a clean environment and encouraging dialogue on cleanliness.

Every citizen is behaving responsibly and checking on each other to ensure a social change towards clean habits and environment.

Today, 12 crore families are receiving hygienic tap water supply through Jal Jeevan Mission in a short duration.

 

17. Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs

Four crore pukka homes have given a new lease of life to the poor.

Three crore new homes have been promised in an effort to further this national agenda.

 

18. Ministry of Animal Husbandry

Along with striving for comprehensive development, fulfilling the needs and aspirations of our fishermen and livestock keepers has been a part of our policies, our intentions, our reforms, our programs, and our work style.

 

19. Ministry of Culture

 

Today, we honour the brave freedom fighters who fought for our nation’s freedom. Our country remains forever indebted to their sacrifice and service.

Independence Day is a festival to remember their grit, resolve and patriotic virtues. It is due to these Bravehearts that we have the good fortune of breathing freely on this festival of independence. This country is deeply indebted to them.

Today, the entire nation is united under the Tricolour — every house is adorned with it, with no distinctions of caste, creed, higher-class, or lower-class; we are all Indians. This unity is a testament to the strength of our direction.

 

20. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy

India has achieved more in the renewable energy sector than G 20 Nations collectively.

India is working hard to become self-reliant in the energy sector.

The PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme is set to provide new strength, and its benefits will be felt by the average families in our country, particularly the middle class, when their electricity bills become free. Those who generate electricity from solar energy under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, can also reduce their fuel costs.

The demand for electric vehicles is on the rise.

 

21. Ministry of Power

When a common man hears from the ramparts of the Red Fort that electricity will be provided to 18,000 villages in Bharat within a specific timeframe and that promise is fulfilled, their confidence is strengthened.

There are still 2.5 crore Indian families living in darkness without electricity.

 

22. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways

We have constructed roads connecting the remotest of villages and borders to bring these regions to the mainstream.

Through these robust infrastructure networks, we have been able to fulfill the needs of the Dalits, victimized, exploited, deprived, backward, tribals, indigenous, aboriginals and inhabitants of forests and hills and far away border areas.

 

23. Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports

The aim is to train India's youth and become the skill capital of the world.

1 lakh youth should be inducted into the political system, specifically those with no history of politics in their families.

Given the challenges of sustaining an entire family on small plots of land, we are making comprehensive efforts to equip the youth with the skills needed to secure new jobs and create additional sources of income.

On behalf of 140 crore fellow countrymen, I extend my congratulations to all the athletes and players of our nation who represented India in the Paris Olympics.

I also convey my heartfelt best wishes to all our Paralympic athletes.

Our goal is clear: to host the 2036 Olympics on Indian soil. We are preparing for this and making significant progress towards it.

 

24. Ministry of DONER

North East India is now a hub for medical infrastructure and this transformation has helped us touch the lives by delivering accessible healthcare till the last mile.

 

25. Ministry of Skill Development

Government is actively taking steps to promote the skill development of our youngsters.

We have earmarked a huge fund in this year’s Budget for Skill India Programme.

Internships for youth, emphasized in this budget, helps gain experience, build their capacity and showcase their skills in the market.

Bharat’s skilled manpower will make their mark in the global job market. We are moving forward with that dream.

 

26. Ministry of Law & Justice

The current Civil Code resembles a Communal Civil Code, one that is discriminatory.

Laws that divide our nation based on religion and foster discrimination have no place in modern society.

After 75 years of a Communal Civil Code, it is crucial to move towards a Secular Civil Code.

It is our collective responsibility to realize the vision of the framers of our Constitution.

We should welcome diverse opinions and perspectives regarding the secular civil code.

India should come forward to embrace the concept of "One Nation One Election".

Over 1,500 laws were eliminated to ensure citizens are not trapped in a web of legal complexities.

We have replaced the centuries-old criminal laws with new criminal laws known as Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, whose idea at core is to ensure justice for citizens as against British ideology of reprimand and punishment.

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PM Modi's Interview with KUNA
December 21, 2024

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that trade and commerce have been important pillars of bilateral relationship between Kuwait and India, with two-way trade increasing.

"Trade and commerce have been important pillars of our bilateral relationship. Our bilateral trade has been on an upswing. Our energy partnership adds a unique value to our bilateral trade," the Indian prime minister said in an interview to KUNA.

The Indian prime minister arrived in Kuwait on Saturday in the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Kuwait in over four decades.

"We are happy to see 'Made in India' products, particularly in automobile, electrical and mechanical machinery, and telecom segments making new inroads in Kuwait. India today is manufacturing world-class products at the most affordable cost. Diversification to non-oil trade is key to achieving greater bilateral trade," he said.

He added there is considerable potential to expand bilateral cooperation in the pharmaceutical, health, technology, digital, innovation and textile sectors, urging business chambers, entrepreneurs and innovators must engage and interact with each other more.

On his visit to Kuwait, he said: "I am delighted to visit Kuwait. I thank His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for his gracious invitation. This visit holds special significance. It marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in over four decades." "I thank His Highness for inviting me to attend the inauguration of the Arabian Gulf Cup. This is an honor for me. I extend my best wishes for successful hosting of the Tournament," he said.

The Indian prime minister went on saying that India and Kuwait share a deep and historic bond and the relationship between both countries has always been one of warmth and friendship and that the crosscurrents of history and exchanges through ideas and commerce have brought people close and together.

"We have traded with each other since times immemorial. The discoveries in Failaka Island speak of our shared past. The Indian Rupee was a legal tender in Kuwait for over a century till 1961. This shows how closely our economies were integrated," Modi said.

He noted that India has been a natural trading partner of Kuwait and continues to be so in contemporary times and that people-to-people linkages over centuries have fostered a special bond of friendship between the two countries.

He added: "Overall, the bilateral ties are progressing well and if I could say, scaling new heights. I eagerly look forward to my talks with His Highness the Amir to elevate our ties in various areas including defense, trade, investment, and energy." "The strong roots of our historical ties must be matched by the fruits of our 21st century partnership - dynamic, robust and multifaceted. There is a lot we have achieved together, but possibilities are limitless for our partnership. I am sure this visit will give new wings to it," Modi stressed.

The Indian prime minister noted that Indians are the largest expatriate community of over a million in Kuwait and India is among the top trading partners of Kuwait and many Indian companies are executing infrastructure projects and offer services in multiple domains in Kuwait.

He said that Kuwait Investment Authority has made substantial investments in India and there is a growing interest in investing in India now, adding that bilaterally and multilaterally, there has been a good understanding of each other's interests.

Modi boasted that his country is currently amongst the fastest-growing large economies in the world, as in less than a decade it has moved from being the 11th largest to the 5th largest economy in the world, and is poised to become the 3rd largest economy soon.

He believed that this growth creates immense opportunities for investment across a variety of sectors and that the pace of infrastructure development in India is extraordinary, be it expressways, railways, airports, ports, energy grids or digital connectivity.

"Over the last decade, we have doubled our airports from 70 in 2014 to over 150 in 2024. In the next five years, 31 Indian cities will be serviced by metro transport systems. The number of education and skill development institutions has also doubled since 2014, reflecting a strong focus on human capital development. This is supported by a favorable demography and a highly skilled workforce," he said.
"Digital economy and services are raising productivity, ushering efficiency and creating new consumer demand. Almost fifty percent of all global digital payments are happening in India. Technology is changing the face of the Indian economy, from drones to green hydrogen," he added.

"Our political stability, policy predictability and reform-oriented business approach has made India a magnet for global investment, manufacturing and supply chain. The Indian growth story is attracting global manufacturers - from semiconductors, aircraft, drones to e-vehicles - to set up shop in the country." he said.

He noted that India's dynamic economic environment is also characterized by innovation and entrepreneurship, with a remarkable surge in start-ups and the manufacturing sector has seen a significant uptick, driving both domestic growth and export expansion, citing rising consumer demand, fueled by a rapidly expanding middle class, as further underscoring the vibrancy of the Indian economy.

"Across the world, if there is a country which is growing rapidly, is increasing ease of doing business, has stability and transparency for international investors, it is India," he said.

As a result, he maintained, India is one of the most attractive destinations for international investment and it is not a new market for Kuwaiti investors, adding, "There are many Kuwaiti businesses who are deeply entrenched in the Indian business ecosystem and enjoy leadership positions in their respective industries. Our investor-friendly regime and high-growth economy awaits to welcome many more." On his government's vision to transform India into a developed country by 2047, he said: "Our vision and that of 140 crore Indians, is to see India as a developed country by 2047, when we will be celebrating 100 Years of our Independence. We are striving to accelerate growth in all sectors to improve living standards of our people. We are building an India where the physical and social infrastructure is world class and all citizens have an opportunity to excel." "We are committed to leapfrog in our development cycle to uplift every Indian into a higher development trajectory. The results are there for all to see. In the last ten years, we have pulled 250 million people out of poverty. We are also ensuring that all our regulations and laws are as per global standards so that investors feel at home," he said.

Modi continued saying: "Similarly, I am told that Kuwait Vision 2035 focuses on transformation of the country by making the country an economic and connectivity hub. I also understand that a large number of infrastructure projects from airport terminal to sea-port to rail link, electricity transmission, renewable energy projects, and special economic zones are in the pipeline." However, he said there is a lot of synergy in both sides' visions which align on many fronts as the tremendous pace of economic activity in both countries open up large opportunities for the two governments and companies to cooperate and collaborate.

He pointed out that Kuwait and India have a much wider partnership in a large number of areas, apart from the traditional energy sector partnership, including education, skilling, technology, and defense cooperation.

"A number of Indian companies are already engaged in execution of infrastructure projects in various sectors in Kuwait. Similarly, we are seeing investments from Kuwaiti companies in India. It is a mutually beneficial partnership in a true sense," he said.

Responding to a question about how India's soft power can influence its global outreach, he said India's civilizational ethos and heritage form the foundation of its soft power that its soft power has grown significantly alongside its expanding global presence, particularly over the last decade.

"In Kuwait and the Gulf, Indian movies stand out as a prime example of this cultural connection. We have seen that people in Kuwait have a special liking for Indian cinema. I am told that there are three weekly shows on Kuwait Television on Indian movies and actors," he said.

"Similarly, we share several attributes in our cuisine and culinary traditions. Centuries of people-to-people contact have also resulted in linguistic similarities and shared vocabulary. India's diversity and emphasis on peace, tolerance and coexistence resonate with the values of Kuwait's multicultural society. Recently, a Kuwaiti scholar translated Ramayana and Mahabharata in Arabic," Modi stressed.

The Indian prime minister boasted that the Indian community acts as a living bridge between the two countries, fostering a deep appreciation for Indian philosophy, music and performing arts, expressing pleasure to learn that a weekly Hindi language program has been started by Kuwait national radio titled 'Namaste Kuwait' this year.

India's tourism sector offers another dimension of soft power. With 43 UNESCO World Heritage sites, coupled with ongoing efforts to enhance visitor facilities, India provides a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, he noted.

For a society like Kuwait, with which India shares a rich historical connection, India's tourism opportunities are an invitation to explore and deepen the shared cultural ties, he said.

He thanked His Highness the Amir and the Government of the State of Kuwait for their patronage of the Indian community and looking after their welfare and wellbeing.

He added that Indians in Kuwait, who are the largest expatriate group, have contributed immensely to the development of Kuwait as doctors, businessmen, construction workers, engineers, nurses and other professionals.

"As we elevate the level of our relationship with Kuwait to a strategic partnership, I believe the role of the Indian community will only grow in importance. I am confident that Kuwaiti authorities recognize the immense contributions of this vibrant community and will continue to provide encouragement and support," he added.

Asked about Kuwaiti-Indian energy relations, the prime minister said energy is an important pillar of the bilateral partnership, estimating that last year, trade exchange crossed USD 10 billion, which reflects the deep trust and mutual benefit underpinning this partnership.

"Both nations have consistently ranked among the top ten trading partners in the energy sector. Indian companies actively engage in importing crude oil, LPG, and petroleum products from Kuwait while also exporting petroleum products to Kuwait. Currently, Kuwait stands as India's 6th largest crude supplier and 4th largest LPG supplier," he said.

As India emerges as the world's 3rd largest energy consumer, oil consumer, and LPG consumer, and Kuwait holds around 6.5 percent of global oil reserves, the scope for further collaboration is immense, he said, noting that both nations are poised to transform their traditional buyer-seller relationship into a strategic partnership by exploring opportunities across the entire oil and gas value chain.
In addition to conventional hydrocarbons trade, there exist a plethora of new areas for cooperation, including an entire value chain of Oil & Gas, as well as joint efforts in low-carbon solutions such as green hydrogen, biofuels, and carbon capture technologies, he added.

Modi noted that the petrochemical sector offers another promising avenue for collaboration as India's rapidly growing petrochemical industry is set to become USD 300 billion by 2025, as Kuwait's ambitious Petrochemical Vision under its Strategy 2040, can open doors to co-investment, technology exchange, and mutual growth.

He spoke highly of the energy partnership between India and Kuwait as not only being a pillar of economic relationship but also a driver for diversified and sustainable growth, setting a path toward a future of shared prosperity, energy security, and environmental stewardship.

Concerning GCC-India ties, he lauded the GCC as a collective entity has vital significance for India, saying that the relationship between India and the Gulf is rooted in historical, cultural and trade linkages and shared values and that these bonds have strengthened and evolved into a partnership across various areas.

He noted that the GCC region accounts for around one-sixth of India's total trade and hosts around one-third of the Indian diaspora, saying that around nine million Indians are residing in the Gulf region, forming a significant community in all the six GCC countries, and contributing positively to their economic growth and development.

In September this year, the first-ever India-GCC Joint Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue at the level of Foreign Ministers was held in Riyadh, he said, adding that an India-GCC Joint Action Plan was adopted at the meeting to strengthen cooperation in a variety of areas including political dialogue, security, trade and investment, energy, health, education, agriculture and food security, transportation, and culture.

Asked bout India's global role, especially as a voice of the Global South, he said: "India is privileged to speak for the global south. We share much in common with our fellow developing countries - from history to the aspirations of our people. We therefore not only understand, but feel their concerns. The ongoing conflicts and the resultant challenges of food, fuel and fertilizer have hit the global south hard. They are also disproportionately bearing the brunt of climate change.

He hailed his country as a reliable development partner for the global south, a first responder in times of crises for them and for others, a leader on climate action and a champion of inclusive growth and development.

He went on saying: "We gave voice to the concerns of developing countries when we assumed the Presidency of the G20. We hosted three Voice of the Global South Summits to amplify and act on the pressing needs of people. We were honored that the African Union became a permanent member of the G20 at the New Delhi Summit. This was a historic achievement for the Global South, and a proud moment for us." Regarding regional and global conflicts, mainly Gaza and Ukraine, Modi said that solutions cannot be found on the battlefield, emphasizing the importance of sincere and practical engagement between stakeholders for bridging differences and achieving negotiated settlements.

In this context, he voiced willingness to help support earnest efforts that could lead to the early restoration of peace, particularly in Gaza and Ukraine.

On the humanitarian side, he said his country sent 70 tons of humanitarian assistance, close to 65 tons of medicines to Gaza last month, in addition to USD 10 million over the last two years to UNRWA.

Modi reiterated India's support for a negotiated two-state solution towards the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine, within secure and recognized borders.

On environmental sustainability initiatives, Modi said: "We are facing several challenges, but none more pressing than climate change. Our planet is under stress. We need urgent collective action and one that involves the entire global community. No one can do it alone. We must come together."

"India wants to lead and bring all countries together to foster pro-planet action. This is the idea behind our championing various green global initiatives," he said.

He regarded the India-led green initiatives as platforms for all nations to collectively address climate change, promote environmental sustainability, build disaster resilient infrastructure, and drive the global transition towards clean energy.