After the Pragati Maidan was demolished, a brand-new, cutting-edge convention hall was constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 2,000 crore. Such pleasures are beyond the means of a developing nation like India, but changing times necessitate new infrastructure.
The location for the G20 summit is prepared. The Integrated Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) at Pragati Maidan will be opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday. IECC, which is spread out across 123 acres in Pragati Maidan, will be the biggest facility in the nation for gatherings, conferences, and exhibitions.
The National Exhibition and Convention Centre (NECC) in China, the Crocus Expo in Russia, the Hannover Exhibition Centre and the Frankfurt Exhibition Centre in Germany are among the top 10 largest convention centres in the world, according to information. The IECC was constructed at a cost of Rs 2150 crores.
The infrastructure must adapt to the times. Unfortunately, the landmark Pragati Maidan, which served as a representation of Nehru's vision for "Modern India," was destroyed before the IECC could be constructed. The posh IECC may come to be seen as a representation of PM Modi's idea of a competitive and powerful "New India" for the twenty-first century. It is unquestionably a representation of India's dedication to modernity and advancement, as well as its unwavering pursuit of excellence in diplomacy and the supporting infrastructure, including world-class airports, upscale accommodations, cutting-edge convention centres, etc.
In the meantime, the opposite viewpoint exists. The convention centre's limited utility also raised concerns about spending thousands of crores that could have been better used to build roads, schools, or hospitals. The government may have intended IECC as a tool to showcase India's growing prosperity matched with world-class infrastructure to the world.
Undoubtedly, India is still a developing nation with subpar healthcare and educational systems in the majority of the nation. Millions of people continue to receive free rations from the government today.
Money is being offered to people so they can construct necessities like toilets. In millions of homes, the electricity is not present. Therefore, a number of Opposition politicians have questioned the need for constructing a brand-new convention hall when events might be held at the current Vigyan Bhawan. But there is never a clear answer and these issues are constantly up for debate.
Any modern city or nation that aspires to lead the world must possess a top-notch infrastructure that is truly on par with the best in the world. Along with finding the money for schools and hospitals, one must also find the funds for Chandrayaan missions, bullet trains, or even giving aid to the underprivileged or a friendly nation. Everything must coexist.
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