Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an address to BJP leaders during the second day of the party's National Convention 2024 at the Bharat Mandapam in the capital, didn't mince words as he launched a scathing critique against the Congress, particularly focusing on issues such as corruption and development during their tenure. Emphasizing his government's track record of steering the country clear of "mega scams" over the past decade, PM Modi rallied the BJP-led NDA with a resounding call for securing 400 seats in the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls.
"The Opposition, too, chants the slogan of 'NDA sarkar, 400 paar' (NDA government, crossing 400 seats)," PM Modi remarked, underscoring the ambitious target set for the coalition. "To achieve this feat, the BJP must surpass the benchmark of 370 seats," he added.
Taking a dig at the Congress, PM Modi highlighted the prevailing sentiment across the nation, asserting, "It's widely believed that we have liberated the nation from the specter of large-scale corruption and terrorist threats. Our endeavors have been dedicated to enhancing the lives of the underprivileged and the middle class."
PM Modi outlined the next five years as pivotal, envisioning a significant stride towards realizing the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' (developed India). "The forthcoming years will be decisive as we embark on the journey towards creating a developed India," he proclaimed.
Reflecting on the strides made in the past decade, PM Modi positioned them as mere stepping stones towards the ultimate goal of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047. "We've exhibited the audacity to accomplish tasks that had languished for decades. Whether it's the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the inauguration of the Kartarpur corridor, the abrogation of Article 370, or the implementation of the New Education Policy, these initiatives have long been awaited by the people of India," he elaborated, stressing the nation's trajectory shaped by its historical and cultural ethos.
PM Modi took aim at the opposition's rhetoric, noting their reluctance to make promises centered on India's development, a domain he claimed only the BJP could effectively address. "My intent for a third term isn't rooted in a lust for power. If I were driven solely by personal motives, I wouldn't have endeavored to provide homes for millions of underprivileged individuals. My purpose is tethered to securing the future of impoverished children, and fulfilling the aspirations of millions of women, poor, and youth," he asserted.
PM Modi highlighted the strengthening of India's ties with West Asia under his leadership, contrasting it with the Congress's purported neglect of the region, which was viewed through the prism of Pakistan. "My visit to the UAE in 2015 marked the end of a 34-year-long hiatus in prime ministerial visits to the region. Unlike past administrations, we've extended our focus beyond traditional paradigms," he emphasized.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to core national values, citing initiatives such as 'Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat' (One India, Great India) as emblematic of the BJP's governance philosophy. Accusing the Congress of overlooking the Northeast, PM Modi underscored his government's dedication to fostering development across all regions, irrespective of electoral considerations.
PM Modi disclosed India's aspirations to host the Youth Olympics and Olympics in 2029 and 2036, respectively, and highlighted the Railways' ambition to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.
Looking ahead, PM Modi outlined the BJP's objectives for the next 100 days, prioritizing voter engagement and unity. "Building trust among the populace is paramount, and with collective endeavors, the BJP stands poised to serve the nation with an unprecedented mandate," he affirmed.
Dispelling notions of complacency, PM Modi reflected on the monumental tasks accomplished during his tenure, reiterating his unwavering commitment to serving the nation's interests above all else. "We're not here for politics; we're here to shape the nation's destiny," he declared, encapsulating the BJP's ethos of governance.
