During his keynote address at the India Today Conclave 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with a plethora of pressing issues while outlining his strategic vision for the nation's advancement. Speaking before a captivated audience in New Delhi, PM Modi delved into diverse topics ranging from the burgeoning startup ecosystem to the transformative potential of the digital revolution, women's empowerment, the imperative of One Earth One Health, and beyond.
Amidst his discourse, the Prime Minister extended felicitations to the citizens of India as the dates for the forthcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections were unveiled by the Election Commission earlier in the day.
Offering notable insights, PM Modi initiated his address with a playful rebuttal to India Today Group Editor-in-Chief Aroon Purie's jest about the Prime Minister's focus on the 2029 Lok Sabha elections, revealing his forward-thinking approach directed towards the electoral landscape of 2047. The declaration resonated with resounding applause from the audience, encapsulating the Prime Minister's enduring commitment to long-term goals.
Underscoring his steadfast work ethic, PM Modi emphasized his inclination towards action over mere rhetoric, asserting, "Whenever I attend a gathering like this, the expectation is for headline-worthy declarations. However, I am someone who operates according to deadlines, not headlines."
Highlighting the remarkable proliferation of startups across the nation, PM Modi lauded the exponential growth, noting a significant surge from a mere 100 startups a decade ago to a staggering count of 1.25 lakh today. He emphasized the widespread dispersion of these startups, spanning over 600 districts, representing 90 percent of the country's territory, thereby underscoring the democratization of entrepreneurial opportunities.
Further, PM Modi underscored his administration's proactive engagement with the northeastern states, citing an impressive tally of ministerial visits as a testament to the government's commitment to regional development.
Turning the spotlight on the PM Swanidhi scheme aimed at uplifting street vendors, PM Modi celebrated their newfound prominence in India's digital revolution, heralding their transformation from marginalized individuals to integral contributors to the nation's socio-economic fabric.
In a significant gesture towards women's empowerment, PM Modi recounted the distribution of agricultural drones to girls in villages, aimed at dismantling entrenched gender norms and promoting inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated spheres.
Looking ahead, PM Modi articulated a bold vision for the forthcoming five years, promising transformative strides in infrastructure, defense exports, Indian Railways, and the space sector, underscoring his proactive approach towards realizing these ambitious objectives.
Concluding his address amidst fervent chants of 'phir ek baar, Modi sarkar' and 'aayega to Modi hi', PM Modi pledged to return to the India Today Conclave to share updates on the progress of these transformative endeavors.
