The

Republican Ethic

President Ram Nath KovindSelected Speeches Vol. II

(July 2018 - July 2019)

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CONTENTS

I. ADDRESSING THE NATION

1. FOSTERING A COMMITMENT TO IMPROVING LIVES 3

Address to the Na�on on the eve of India's 72nd Independence day at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan on August 14, 2018

2. ACHIEVING THE REPUBLIC'S VISION: COMMITMENT TO LIBERTY, FRATERNITY AND EQUALITY 9

Address to the Na�on on the eve of the 70th Republic Day in New Delhi on January 25, 2019

3. MARCHING TOWARDS A NEW INDIA 13

Address at the joint si�ng of the Parliament on January 31, 2019

4. CITIZENS' GOVERNMENT 33

Address at the joint si�ng of both houses of the Parliament in New Delhi on June 20, 2019

II. WINDOW TO THE WORLD

5. CELEBRATING THE VOYAGE OF BUDDHISM 55

Address at the inaugura�on of the 6th Interna�onal Buddhist Conclave in New Delhi on August 23, 2018

6. ASSIMILATING TO CONTRIBUTE: INDIAN DIASPORA IN CYPRUS 58

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi on the occasion of the ceremony organised by the Indian Diaspora in Cyprus on September 2, 2018

7. INDIA WITH CYPRUS AND CYPRUS WITH INDIA 62

Address at the House of Representa�ves of Cyprus in Cyprus on September 3, 2018

8. YOUTH, EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY IN A RAPIDLY EVOLVING WORLD 66

Address at the University of Cyprus on “Youth, Technology and Ideas: Shaping the Contours of the 21st Century” in Cyprus on September 4, 2018

9. IN PURSUIT OF A CLOSER RELATION: BULGARIA AND INDIA 70

Address at Sofia University in Sofia on September 5, 2018

10. INDIA AND BULGARIA: TIME TESTED FRIENDS 75

Address at the India-Bulgaria Business Forum in Sofia on September 5, 2018

11. BOOSTING TRADE BETWEEN INDIA AND THE CZECH REPUBLIC 78

Address at the India-Czech Business Forum in Prague on September 7, 2018

12. SERVICE TO A LANGUAGE 81

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi on the occasion of the 11th World Hindi Conference in New Delhi on September 17, 2018

13. PARTNERSHIP FOR POSTERITY 84

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the Indian Community and Friends of India Recep�on in Dushanbe, Tajikistan on October 7, 2018

14. NURTURING THE SPIRIT OF CREATIVITY ANDINCLUSIVENESS TO COUNTER RADICALISATION 87

Address at the Tajik Na�onal University on “Countering Radicaliza�on: Challenges before Modern Society” in Dushanbe on October 8, 2018

15. INDIA AND VIETNAM: A SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP 92

A special address at the Na�onal Assembly of Vietnam in Hanoi on November 20, 2018

16. A READY PITCH: INDIA-AUSTRALIA BUSINESS RELATIONS 97

Address at the Australian Financial Review India Business Summit in Sydney on November 22, 2018

17. INDIA AND MYANMAR: A TIMELESS FRIENDSHIP 101

Address at a banquet in Nay Pyi Taw on December 11, 2018

18. PRIORITISING THE NEIGHBOURHOOD 103

Address at the Indian Community recep�on in Yangon on December 12, 2018

19. CELEBRATING A DIVERSE AND DISTINGUISHED DIASPORA 108

Address at the valedictory session of the 15th Pravasi Bhara�ya Divas on January 23, 2019

20. DEEPENING A SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP AND A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP: INDIA AND SOUTH AFRICA 112

Address at the banquet hosted in the honour of the President of South Africa, Mr. Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan in New Delhi on January 25, 2019

21. ENHANCING BILATERAL TIES: INDIA AND ARGENTINA 114

Address at the banquet hosted in the honour of the President of the Republic of Argen�na at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan on February 18, 2019

22. :INDIA–SAUDI ARABIA SHARED CIVILISATIONAL LINKAGES 116

Address at the banquet in honour of Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Vice President and Defence Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at Rashtrapa� Bhavan on February 20, 2019

23. SPEARHEADING ECONOMIC ENGAGEMENT: INDIA–CROATIA 118

Address at the India-Croa�a Business Forum in Zagreb on March 27, 2019

24. INDIA-CROATIA: REAFFIRMING THE HAND OF FRIENDSHIP AND COOPERATION 122

Address at the University of Zagreb on “India – Croa�a: The Way Forward” at Zagreb on March 27, 2019

25. INDIA-BOLIVIA: STRENGTHENING BUSINESS TIES 126

Address at the India-Bolivia Business Forum in Santa Cruz on March 29, 2019

26. INDIA-CHILE: PRESERVING THE GAINS OF THE BILATERAL TRADING ORDER 130

Address at the India-Chile Business Event in San�ago on April 1, 2019

27. INDIA–SOUTH AFRICA: SHARED VALUES AND PRINCIPLES 133

Address at the Indian Community and Friends of India recep�on in Cape Town on April 2, 2019

28. MARKING A NEW CHAPTER IN INDIA'S ONWARD MARCH 136

Address at the banquet hosted in the honour of the Heads/ Representa�ves of the State/ Government a�ending the Swearing-in-Ceremony of the Prime Minister of India at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan in New Delhi on May 30, 2019

III. EDUCATING INDIA, EQUIPPING INDIA

29. IIT HYDERABAD: AN ELEMENT IN THE KNOWLEDGE ECOSYSTEM 141

Address on the occasion of the 7th convoca�on of IIT, Hyderabad in Hyderabad on August 5, 2018

30. A HUNDRED YEARS OF SCHOLARSHIP AND TRUTH: ST. THOMAS COLLEGE 144

Address on the occasion of the centenary celebra�ons of St Thomas College in Thrissur on August 7, 2019

31. IMPORTANCE OF ETHICS IN EDUCATION 147

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at seminar on “Value-oriented educa�on” at Kanpur on October 6, 2018

32. HONOURING A LUMINOUS POET 150

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the unveiling of the statue of Shri Shyamlal Parshad in Kanpur on October 6, 2018

33. GIVING HER WINGS TO SOAR 153

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the Interna�onal Conference on Women's Health, Welfare and Empowerment in Kanpur on October 6, 2018

34. EXPLORING THE FRONTIERS OF HUMANITY 157

Address at the inaugura�on of the 4th India Interna�onal Science Fes�val in Lucknow on October 6, 2018

35. SPREADING THE MESSAGE OF NON-VIOLENCE AND COMPASSION 161

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the inaugura�on of the World Peace and Ahimsa Conference in Rishabhdevpuram-Mangitungi in Nasik on October 22, 2018

36. CONTINUING THE TRADITIONS OF LEARNING AND EXCELLENCE 164

th Address at the 15 Convoca�on of Symbiosis Interna�onal University in Pune on October 23, 2018

37. SYNCHRONY BETWEEN FAITH AND MODERNITY 167

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the inaugura�on of the Interna�onal Arya Conference in New Delhi on October 25, 2018

38. MEDICAL PROFESSION: PATH OF SERVICE 171

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the first convoca�on of Dr Rajendra Prasad Medical College in Kangra on October 29, 2018

39. LEARNING: THE REAL PURPOSE OF EDUCATION 174th Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the 24 Convoca�on of

the Himachal Pradesh University in Shimla on October 30, 2018

40. IMPARTING KNOWLEDGE AND VALUES 177

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the inaugura�on of the Gyan Kumbh held at Haridwar on November 3, 2018

41. A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR HEALTHY INDIA 181

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the first convoca�on of All India Ins�tute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, U�arakhand on November 3, 2018

42. STRIVING TO SAFEGUARD THE PLANET 185

Address to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the partnership between Department of Biotechnology, Government of India and Wellcome Trust in New Delhi on November 12, 2018

43. FOSTERING INNOVATION IN AGRICULTURE 188

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the first convoca�on func�on of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University in Samas�pur, Bihar on November 15, 2018

44. EDUCATION: OPPORTUNITY AND RESPONSIBILITY 192

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the 8th Convoca�on func�on of the Na�onal Ins�tute of Technology in Patna, Bihar on November 15, 2018

45. ANALYSING THE DEVELOPMENTAL JOURNEY 195

Speech on the occasion of the presenta�on of the first copy of “Making of

New India – Transforma�on under the Modi Government” in New Delhi on

November 27, 2018

46. EDUCATION: THE KEY TO DEVELOPMENT 198

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the Founder's Week

Celebra�on of the Maharana Pratap Educa�on Council in Gorakhpur on

December 10, 2018

47. YOGA: CONNECTING THE MIND, SOUL AND BODY 202

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the Centenary

Celebra�on of the Yoga Ins�tute in Mumbai on December 28, 2019

48. COMMEMORATING A SYMBOL OF PERFECTION 205

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the Centenary Func�on

of DAV College in Kanpur on February 25, 2019

49. EDUCATION FOR DEVELOPMENT OF NATION 208

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the Joint Alumni

Conference and Annual func�on of the schools run by Brahmavarta Sanatan

Dharma Mandal in Kanpur on February 25, 2019

50. MAXIMISING INNOVATION'S BENEFIT TO THE SOCIETY AND NATION 211

Address at the inaugura�on of the Fes�val of Innova�on and Entrepreneurship

and Presenta�on of the 10th Biennial Na�onal Grassroots Innova�on Awards

at Gandhinagar on March 15, 2019

51. RECOGNISING QUALITY AND EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION 215

Speech on the occasion of release of India Rankings 2019 and ATAL rankings of

Ins�tu�ons on Innova�on Achievement in New Delhi on April 8, 2019

IV. DHARMA OF PUBLIC SERVICE

52. HERALDING THE FUTURE: INDIA'S CHANGE AGENTS 221

Speech on the occasion of call on by the Indian Administra�ve Service Officers

(2016 Batch) at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan in New Delhi on July 27, 2018

53. APPRECIATING A CULTURE OF INFORMED AND EDUCATED DEBATE 223

Speech on the occasion of the Fes�val of Democracy organised to mark the

closure of the diamond jubilee celebra�on of the Kerala Legisla�ve Assembly

in Thiruvananthapuram on August 6, 2018

54. ENFORCING A JUST, FAIR AND EFFICIENT TAX STRUCTURE 226

Speech on the occasion of the call on by the proba�oners of the 68th batch of the Indian Revenue Service (Customs and Central Excise) at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan on August 30, 2018

55. IMPARTING PUBLIC SERVICE FOR THE BENEFIT OF INDIA AND HER PEOPLE 228

Speech on the occasion of the call on by the Officer Trainees of the Indian Audit and Accounts Service, Indian Trade Service and Indian Informa�on Service at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan on September 17, 2018

56. TAKING CARE OF THE NATION'S SAFETY AND WELL-BEING 230

Speech on the occasion of the call on by the General Duty Medical Officers (GDMOs) of the 3rd founda�on programme at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan on September 19, 2018

57. INFORMING, EMPOWERING AND ENGAGING CITIZENS IN THE DECISION MAKING PROCESS 232

Speech on the occasion of the 13th Annual Conven�on of the Central Informa�on Commission in New Delhi on October 12, 2018

58. UPHOLDING THE RULE OF LAW AND DEMOCRACY IN THE NATION 235

Speech on the occasion of the call on by the Officer Trainees of the 70 RR (2017 batch) of the Indian Police Service at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan on October 12, 2018

59. KEEPING PACE WITH EMERGING GREEN AND CLEAN TECHNOLOGIES 238

Speech on the occasion of the call on by the Officer Trainees of the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan on October 15, 2018

60. ENSURING TRUST AND COOPERATION IN THE TAX STRUCTURE 241

Speech on the occasion of the call on by the Officer Trainees of the 72nd batch of the Indian Revenue Service at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan on March 8, 2019

61. FOLLOWING A CALLING: SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE 244

Speech on the occasion of the call on by the Officer Trainees of the Indian Audit and Accounts Service and the Central Engineering Services (Roads) at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan on March 18, 2019

62. STRENGTHENING BILATERAL RELATIONS AND GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS 246

Address on the occasion of the call on by the Officer Trainees of the Indian Foreign Service at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan on May 14, 2019

63. AT THE FOREFRONT OF MANAGEMENT OF NATURE AND WILDLIFE 249

Address on the occasion of the call on by the Indian Forest Service Proba�oners at Rashtrapa� Bhavan on July 23, 2019

V. HONOURING OUR SENTINELS

64. NEED FOR A STRATEGIC SECURITY CULTURE 255

Address on the occasion of the call on by the faculty and course members of the 58th NDC at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan on November 12, 2018

65. EXCELLING IN DEFENCE OF THE NATION 258

Address on the occasion of presenta�on of Standards to 118 Helicopters Unit and Colours to Air Defence College at the Air Force Sta�on Guwaha� on November 29, 2018

66. KEEPING THE SKIES SAFE AND IMPARTING QUALITY TRAINING TO THE FORCES 260

Address on the occasion of presenta�on of Colours to Air Force Sta�on Hakimpet and 5 Base Repair Depot at the Air Force Sta�on Sulur on March 4, 2019

67. SALUTING VALOUR AND SACRIFICE 262

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the Na�onal Police Memorial in New Delhi on April 9, 2019

VI. SPIRIT OF THE CONSTITUTION AND LAW

68. REFORMING THE STRUCTURE OF LEGAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING 267

Speech on the occasion of the Na�onal Conference organised by the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Associa�on (SCOARA) in New Delhi on September 1, 2018

69. PROVIDING QUALITY EDUCATION IN LAW 271

Address on the occasion of the pla�num jubilee celebra�on of Karnatak Law Society and Raja Lakhamgouda Law College in Belagavi on September 15, 2018

70. STRENGTHEN THE CULTURE OF INTEGRITY AND TRANSPARENCY 274

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the Vigilance Awareness Week in New Delhi on October 31, 2018

71. THE CONSTITUTION: INDIA'S MODERN SCRIPTURE 277

Address on the occasion of the inaugura�on of the Cons�tu�on Day Celebra�ons in New Delhi on November 26, 2018

72. IN MEMORY OF BABASAHEB AMBEDKAR 282

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the Interna�onal Ambedkar Conclave in New Delhi on November 30, 2018

73. UPHOLDERS OF DEMOCRACY 286

Transla�on of the address delivered in Hindi on the occasion of the 9th Voters' Day in New Delhi on January 25, 2019

74. COMMEMORATING AN INSTITUTION – JUSTICE PN BHAGWATI 289

Address on the occasion of the presenta�on of Festschri�, “Law, Jus�ce and Judicial Power – Jus�ce PN Bhagwa�'s Approach” in New Delhi on February 8, 2019

75. IN HONOUR OF A GREAT LUMINARY 292

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the unveiling of the portrait of Shri Atal Behari Vajpayee in the Central Hall of the Parliament on February 12, 2019

76. IMPORTANCE OF PRIMACY OF LAW 295

Address at the Special Convoca�on of the Tamil Nadu Dr. Ambedkar Law University in Chennai on July 13, 2019

77. TOWARDS A LEGALLY AWARE SOCIETY 298

Address on the occasion of the inaugura�on of the addi�onal building complex of the Supreme Court in New Delhi on July 17, 2019

VII. ACKNOWLEDGING EXCELLENCE

78. UPHOLDING THE SOUL OF DEMOCRACY 305

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the Outstanding Parliamentarian Award at Parliament House in New Delhi on August 1, 2018

79. LOCAL SKILLS AND INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT BACKBONE OF THE ECONOMY 309

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the One District One Product Summit held at Lucknow on August 10, 2018

80. ENSURING TRANSPARENCY OF OPERATIONS AND PROMOTING GOOD GOVERNANCE 313

Speech on the occasion of the inaugura�on of the 29th Accountants General Conference in New Delhi on October 10, 2018

81. IMPACTING AGRICULTURE THROUGH TECHNOLOGY 316

Address on the occasion of the inaugura�on of the CII Agro Tech Conference in Chandigarh on December 1, 2018

82. TRIBUTE THROUGH DEVELOPMENT AND WORK 320

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the laying of the founda�on of the Kewadia Sta�on in Kewadia, Gujarat on December 15, 2018

83. ENSURING PROSPERITY FOR THE FARMERS OF THE NATION 324

Address on the occasion of the inaugura�on of the Pla�num Jubilee Conference of the All India Food Processors' Associa�on in New Delhi on December 20, 2018

84. BUILDING GLOBAL HEATHCARE ALLIANCES 328

Address on the occasion of the inaugura�on of the 12th Global Healthcare

Summit in Mumbai on December 28, 2018

85. INNOVATION WITH NEW THINKING 332

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the prize distribu�on and

closing ceremony of the 4th Agri-Leadership Summit-2019 held in Gannaur,

Haryana on 17th February 2019

86. ACKNOWLEDGING EMBLEMS OF INDIAN CULTURE 336

Address on the occasion of the presenta�on of the Tagore Awards for Cultural

Harmony for the years 2014, 2015 and 2016 in New Delhi on February 18, 2019

87. PROTECTORS OF PUBLIC HEALTH 339

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the inaugura�on of the

Apollomedics Hospital in Lucknow on February 24, 2019

88. A CULTURE OF CLEANLINESS 342

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the Swacch Sarvekshan

ceremony in New Delhi on March 6, 2019

89. CLASSICAL LANGUAGES: PRESERVING CIVILISATIONS 346

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the ceremony of

cita�on of classical languages in New Delhi on April 5, 2019

VIII. MAHATMA GANDHI MORAL EXEMPLAR, GUIDING LIGHT

90. A CENTURY OF PRESERVING HINDI 351

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi on the occasion of the

centenary of the Dakshin Bharat Prachar Sabha at Vigyan Bhavan in New

Delhi on September 22, 2018

91. ON THE PATH TO ACHIEVING HOLISTIC SANITATION 354

Speech on the occasion of the inaugura�on of the Mahatma Gandhi

Interna�onal Sanita�on Conven�on in New Delhi on September 29, 2018

92. HONOURING GANDHI IN AUSTRALIA 360

Address on the occasion of the unveiling of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in

Parama�a, Sydney, Australia on November 22, 2018

93. CHANGE THROUGH NON-VIOLENCE 362

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi on the occasion of the

presenta�on of the Gandhi Peace Prize at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan in New

Delhi on February 26, 2019

94. 150 YEARS OF MAHATMA GANDHI: RELEVANCE FOR TODAY 366

Address at Autonomous University of Gabriel Rene Moreno, Santa Cruz,

Bolivia on the topic – 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi: Relevance for Today in

Santa Cruz, Bolivia on March 29, 2019

95. MAHATMA GANDHI: AN IDEOLOGY FOR THE YOUNG 371

Address at the University of Chile on the topic – Gandhi for Young at San�ago,

Chile on April 1, 2019

thnto the second year of his Presidency, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, the 14 IPresident of the Republic of India, has con�nued to touch a chord with

all the sec�ons and regions of the great and vast na�on that India is.

This volume is a reflec�on of the wisdom and spirit of India, its diversity, and

aspira�ons that are embodied through the republican values and words of

the Honourable President of India.

Covering the period from July, 2018 to July, 2019, the book contains 92

speeches, and is divided into eight categories: 'Addressing the Na�on';

'Window to the World'; 'Educa�ng India, Equipping India'; 'Dharma of

Public Service'; 'Honouring our Sen�nels'; 'Spirit of the Cons�tu�on and

Law', 'Acknowledging Excellence' and 'Mahatma Gandhi: Moral Exemplar,

Guiding Light'.

The Honourable President is the Chairperson of the Na�onal Commi�ee for

Commemora�on of 150�� birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi,

comprising eminent ci�zens from across the country, and has delivered key

addresses on the importance of Bapu's philosophy in contemporary age for

all na�ons across the globe. A special sec�on on Mahatma Gandhi has been

added in the book as President's tribute to the Father of the Na�on.

The speeches in a sense also act as bridges between mul�ple paradigms of

India, that of the great Indian cultural legacy and the modern technological

advances, that of the future possibili�es and the past achievements, that

between the urban and rural India, and that between the various linguis�c,

cultural and religious communi�es living within India. The speeches, very

effec�vely express and acknowledge the importance of each component

and the very idea of Unity in Diversity.

The Preamble of the Cons�tu�on of India is defined as its spirit, and President

Kovind's speeches reflect the best guiding lights of Sovereignty, Secularism,

Jus�ce, Liberty, and Equality, as enshrined in our Preamble. These principles

have stayed with the President throughout his personal journey that in

essence reflects the rise of India among the comity of Na�ons.

It is hoped that the selected speeches serve as an accurate indicator of the

ideas, ideals and aspira�ons of emerging New India.

PREFACE

Sectio

n I

the Nation Addressing

Our young people, both boys and girls, represent the hope and optimism of India. Our freedom struggle saw the active participation of the young and the old, but its energy was provided by the young

“ “

3

y gree�ngs to you as we complete 71 years as an independent M ndna�on. Tomorrow we will commemorate our 72 Independence

Day. For every Indian, whether living at home or anywhere else

in the world, August 15 is sacred. It is marked on our calendars as a day of

celebra�on of our sovereignty. We unfurl our na�onal flag with great joy

and enthusiasm in workplaces, municipali�es, panchayats, colleges,

schools, homes and neighbourhoods. The Tricolour is a symbol of our

na�onal pride. It is a constant reminder of our striving and our self-belief.

Independence Day is a day to look back with sa�sfac�on and gra�tude for

what we have been able to achieve due to the efforts of successive

genera�ons of our elders. And it is a day for us to renew our resolve to fill the

gaps that s�ll remain in our na�on building project – gaps that our talented

young people will no doubt fill.

Freedom came to our country at the midnight of August 14-15, 1947. It was

the result of years and decades and centuries of sacrifice and valour on the

part of our ancestors and our freedom fighters. These were men and

women of rare courage and foresight who came from all regions of the

country, all sec�ons of society, all communi�es and all socio-economic

groups. They could easily have compromised and se�led for some personal

benefit but they did not. Their commitment to India – to a free, sovereign,

plural and egalitarian India – was absolute. It was my privilege to honour ththese freedom fighters on the anniversary of 'Quit India Day' on 9 August

in Rashtrapa� Bhavan.

We are fortunate that we have inherited the legacy of such remarkable

patriots. They le� us with a free India but they also le� us with unfinished

tasks for the development of our society, for the empowerment of the

proverbial last person, for their libera�on from poverty, and social and

economic inequality. Every breath in our collec�ve life as a na�on is a

tribute to our freedom fighters – and a commitment to accomplish

whatever is s�ll unaccomplished.

If we define freedom in narrow, poli�cal terms, then August 15, 1947,

marks a closure. It was the day the poli�cal struggle against an imperial

power culminated in success resul�ng in India's Independence Day. But

freedom is a broader concept. It is not fixed and finite. Freedom is a

constant and relentless endeavour. Even decades a�er 1947, each one of us

can contribute in the manner of a freedom fighter. We can do so if we

FOSTERING A COMMITMENT TO IMPROVING LIVES

4

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

expand the fron�ers of freedom and opportunity to our fellow Indians and

our beloved India.

Our farmers grow food for tens of thousands of fellow ci�zens whom they

have not met and will never meet. They are upholding our freedom by

ensuring food security and nutri�on for our children. As we assist our

farmers by providing access to technology and other facili�es for enhanced

produc�vity and enhanced incomes, we live up to the principles of our

freedom struggle.

Our Armed Forces stand guard valiantly on our borders, up in the cruel

climate of the mountains or under the blazing sun, or in the skies or at sea.

They are upholding our freedom by ensuring security from external threats.

As we give them be�er weapons and equipment, build supply chains for

such equipment in India itself, or ensure welfare benefits for our soldiers,

we live up to the principles of our freedom struggle.

Our police and paramilitary forces take on a variety of challenges:- in

ba�ling terrorism, figh�ng crime and law and order disturbances, or in

helping ordinary ci�zens by holding their hands as they cross a flooded

street. By doing this, they are upholding our civic freedom. As we improve

their professional and personal condi�ons, we live up to the principles of

our freedom struggle.

Women have a special role in our society. The expansion of freedom in our

country amounts to the expansion of freedom for women in our country.

This is true whether we see them as mothers, sisters, daughters or simply as

women who are en�tled to a life of their choosing – and deserving of the

opportunity and security to fulfil their poten�al. They could do this as

sheet-anchors of our families or as absolutely cri�cal entrants to our

ins�tu�ons of higher learning and our workforce. The choice is theirs; as a

na�on and as a society we must ensure that they have the right and the

ability to exercise that choice.

As we take this process further, by facilita�ng credit for women-run

enterprises and start-ups or by easier availability of LPG in millions of

kitchens and millions of homes, we live up to the principles of our

freedom struggle.

Our young people, both boys and girls, represent the hope and op�mism of

India. Our freedom struggle saw the ac�ve par�cipa�on of the young and

the old, but its energy was provided by the young. They chose different

modes of ac�vism in their quest for liberty – but their resolve and their

idealism, their passion for a free India, for a be�er India, for a more equal

India, was non-nego�able.

5

FOSTERING A COMMITMENT TO IMPROVING LIVES

Today, as we ignite the fire within our youth, by building capaci�es for

skilling and scholarship; for technology, engineering and entrepreneurship;

for crea�vity and cra�s; for playing music and producing mobile apps, for

excelling in sports, we are harnessing the unlimited human capital of our

youth. In doing so, we live up to the principles of our freedom struggle.

I have given only a few examples; there could be many more. The reality is

that every Indian who does his or her job with sincerity and commitment,

who contributes to society by being true to a professional ethic, be it the

doctor's ethic, the nurse's ethic, the teacher's ethic, the public servant's

ethic, the factory worker's ethic, the business-person's ethic, the ethic of

those who have to care for ageing parents who brought them up with love

and sacrifice – each of these and many others are in their own way

upholding the values of freedom. They are providing the fruits and goods

and services of freedom to fellow ci�zens. Every ci�zen of India who does

his or her duty sincerely, fulfils a personal and professional obliga�on and

keeps to a given word is, at a fundamental level, upholding the principles of

our freedom struggle. I would argue that every Indian who does not jump

the queue and respects the civic space and rights of those ahead in the line

also lives up to the principles of our freedom struggle. It is a very small

gesture. Let us try and abide by it.

You may wonder if what I have said so far would not have held true in the

years gone by, maybe 10 or 20 years ago or even earlier. To some extent, it

certainly would. Even so, we are at a juncture in our history that is very

different from any period we have so far experienced. We are at the cusp of

achieving many of our long-awaited goals. Universal access to electricity,

the elimina�on of open defeca�on, the elimina�on of homelessness, the

elimina�on of extreme poverty is achievable and a�ainable. We are at a

pivotal moment. Let conten�ous issues and extraneous debates not

distract us.

thA�er four years, we will be marking the 75 anniversary of Independence. thIn less than 30 years, our people will celebrate the 100 anniversary of India

as a free na�on. The decisions we take today, the founda�ons we lay today,

the projects we undertake today, the social and economic investments we

make today – whether for the immediate future or for the medium term –

will determine where we stand. The pace of change and development in

our country is rapid and appreciable. As per our civilisa�onal tradi�ons, it is

driven by our people, by civil society and by a partnership between ci�zen

and government. Its focus, again in keeping with the essence of Indian

thought, is on a be�er life for the less fortunate.

I will give you just one example. The Gram Swaraj Abhiyan is taking seven

flagship programmes to the doorstep of the poorest and the most deprived

among our fellow ci�zens. These services include access to electricity,

access to formal banking system, access to welfare and insurance

programmes, and access to immunisa�on in hitherto hard-to-reach areas.

The Gram Swaraj Abhiyan has been extended to 117 Aspira�onal Districts

where, seven decades a�er Independence, we s�ll have stark gaps in the

development narra�ve.

Not surprisingly there is a significant overlap between the popula�ons of

these districts and historically weaker communi�es, such as Scheduled

Castes and Scheduled Tribes. As such, we have an opportunity to raise the

quality of life for those of our fellow ci�zens who have unfortunately

remained at the bo�om of the pyramid. The Gram Swaraj Abhiyan is not

being carried out by government alone. It is a collabora�on of public

agencies and community groups, with selfless ci�zens who are keen to

share, empathise and give back.

Independence Day is always special, but this year there is an unusual ndsignificance a�ached to it. On 2 October we will begin the commemora�on

thof the 150 birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhiji did not just lead our

freedom struggle. He was and s�ll remains our moral compass. In my

capacity as the President of India, I have been fortunate to have travelled

around the world, par�cularly to a few countries in Africa. Everywhere,

across con�nents, Gandhiji is men�oned, cherished and remembered as an

icon for all humanity. He is the embodiment of India.

It is not always simple to understand Gandhiji. He refused to be restricted in

his defini�on of poli�cs and poli�cal ac�vism, or even freedom. When

Gandhiji and his wife Kasturba travelled to Champaran in Bihar for the

indigo farmers' agita�on, they devoted a considerable part of their �me to

educa�ng local people, par�cularly women and children, and teaching

them about hygiene and health. Here, and on other occasions, Gandhiji

personally led the drive for swachhta or cleanliness. He linked the removal

of dirt to an act of self-discipline and of promo�ng physical and

mental health.

Many were puzzled at that �me. What does all this have to do with

freedom? For Gandhiji, they were the centre-piece of the quest for

freedom. This was a struggle, according to him, not just for poli�cal power

but for empowering the poorest of the poor, educa�ng the uneducated,

ensuring the right to a dignified life and a feasible livelihood for every village,

for every neighbourhood, for every family – and for every individual.

6

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

Gandhiji spoke of swadeshi with an uncommon zeal. To him this was a pride

in promo�ng Indian crea�vity and an Indian sensibility. Nevertheless, he

was alive to intellectual currents from the rest of the world. He invited

these to enrich our learning. To him, Indian civilisa�on was defined by open

windows and not closed doors. This was his concept of swadeshi and it is

s�ll relevant to us as we engage with the world – whether for our economy,

our health, educa�on and social aspira�ons, or our policy choices.

Perhaps Gandhiji's most noble mantra was to point out that the power of

ahimsa is far greater than the power of himsa. The power to stay your hand

is far greater than the power to strike with your hand and himsa has no

place in the society. The weapon of ahimsa was the most effec�ve weapon

Gandhiji gave us. Like his other teachings, it was rooted in the ancient

wisdom of India and yet has a resonance in the 21st century and in our daily

lives.On this Independence Day, close to the 150th anniversary

commemora�on of Gandhiji, let each of us adapt his ideas and maxims, in

whatever manner we can in our everyday work and conduct. I can think of

no be�er way to celebrate our freedom and Indianness.

This Indianness is not for us alone. It is part of what our country and our

civilisa�on bring to the global stage. In the spirit of Gandhiji and the spirit of

India, we believe in the age-old ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam or the

“World is one Family”. This is why we demonstrate our concern for en�re

humanity by providing assistance to many African countries, taking

ini�a�ves on the issue of climate change, contribu�ng to United Na�ons

Peacekeeping Opera�ons in different parts of the world, helping

neighbouring countries affected by natural disasters, rescuing people

trapped in a conflict zone, both our own people and from other countries.

In the spirit of Gandhiji and the spirit of India, we share the prac�ce of yoga

for health and well-being, and using technology for development. We are

Gandhiji's children. We dream for all humanity, even when we walk alone.

In my engagements with students and university authori�es all over India, I

have urged students to spend a few days in a village. Undertaken as part of

what may be termed “University Social Responsibility”, this will help

students understand our country. It will allow them to observe and

par�cipate in social welfare programmes and see how they are making an

impact. It will be of benefit to the individual student and to the village, as

well as he country. It will also invoke the fervour of our freedom struggle,

and the iden�fica�on of every ci�zen with the na�onal mission.

I am gra�fied by the idealism and the passion of our young people. There is

a spirit to achieve something for oneself, for one's family, for wider society

7

FOSTERING A COMMITMENT TO IMPROVING LIVES

and for our country. This is the most moral educa�on we can wish for. The

outcome of educa�on is not merely a degree or a diploma but the

commitment to help improve the life of another in a way that is sustainable.

This is empathy and fraternity in ac�on. This is the Indian spirit. This is India,

because India belongs to the people of India – not just the Government.

Together we can help every ci�zen in our country and can conserve our

forests and natural heritage. Together we can safeguard our monuments

for future genera�ons and can renew our rural and urban habitats.

Together, we can eliminate poverty, illiteracy and inequality. We can and

must do this together. The government has a leading role but not the sole

role. Let us use the government's programmes and projects to further our

own efforts. Let us make that sense of ownership our mo�va�on.

With those words, I once again wish you and your families all the best for

Independence Day and best wishes for a bright future.

ndAddress to the Na�on on the eve of India's 72 Independence day at the Rashtrapa�

Bhavan, on August 14, 2018

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

8

th

My gree�ngs to all of you on the eve of our 70 Republic Day! This

is an occasion to commemorate the values of our democracy

and Republic; to reaffirm our commitment to liberty, fraternity

and equality across our society and among all our ci�zens; and above all, an

occasion to celebrate India and the spirit of being Indian.

Every Republic Day is precious and every day in the life of our Republic is

precious. Yet this year is a li�le more special. On October 2, we will mark the

150 birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, who led us – and inspired oppressed th

socie�es in Asia and Africa– to freedom from colonial rule. Gandhiji remains

the moral compass of our Republic; his teachings are s�ll the touchstone to

measure our policies and ini�a�ves. His 150 anniversary is not for India th

alone; it is a joy to be shared with the world.

A few weeks a�er Gandhiji's birthday, on November 26, we will mark the

70 anniversary of the adop�on of our Cons�tu�on. This enlightened and th

far-reaching document laid the founda�ons of our Republic. It was the work

of men and women of principle and patrio�sm – the members of the

Cons�tuent Assembly. In par�cular, we recall the role of Babasaheb Dr

Bhimrao Ambedkar who chaired the Dra�ing Commi�ee. In his honour, and

in our Cons�tu�on's honour, the na�on will celebrate Cons�tu�on Day this

year in an appropriate manner.

The values that shaped Indian independence and that con�nue to shape

our Republic – the values inculcated in our democracy and the Cons�tu�on

– are also values that uphold the supremacy of the people of India. This

year, the people of India – each one of us – have another responsibility: of

vo�ng in the general elec�on and elec�ng the 17 Lok Sabha. The ideas and th

idealism of our democracy will come into full force. Once more, as we do

every five years, voters will deliver their verdict and write their des�ny. This

year's elec�on will be the first when voters born in the 21 century will st

contribute to elec�ng a new Lok Sabha.

An elec�on is not just a poli�cal exercise. An elec�on is a collec�ve call to

wisdom and ac�on. It represents a renewal and a recommitment to the

goals and hopes of a shared and egalitarian society. It also represents the

diverse and yet singular urges of the people and the Republic of India. This

makes the act of vo�ng a sacred act. Please perform this act. Who the voter

ACHIEVING THE REPUBLIC'S VISION: COMMITMENT TO LIBERTY, FRATERNITY AND EQUALITY

9

chooses to vote for is up to him or her, I would request all eligible voters to

go out and vote. Our country is at a key juncture. In some respects, this is as

cri�cal and forma�ve a period as the late 1940s and early 1950s. Decisions stand ac�ons of today will shape India for the remainder of the 21 century.

As such, this is not just a once-in-a-genera�on moment – it is a once-in-a-

century moment.

Having said that let us remember that this elec�on is only a milestone in the

journey towards fulfilling the aspira�ons of our people and building a

developed India. India is at the doorstep of elimina�ng extreme poverty for

the first �me. A programme of universal and equitable healthcare has

recently been rolled out. Affordable medicines and medical devices and

implants are becoming a reality for more and more sec�ons of our people. A

greater number of Indians than ever previously have access to proper

housing, with modern sanita�on and electricity.

Connec�vity – in the form of ports and inland waterways, upgraded

railways and new metro services, na�onal highways and rural roads, cost-

effec�ve air services to the interiors of India, and of course the surge in

mobile phones and data access – is bringing us together as never before.

India has been united and integrated – now it is being networked.

Leapfrogging technologies and enlightenment are empowering our

farmers and equipping our soldiers. They are enabling our tradi�onally

deprived fellow ci�zens and educa�ng our daughters and our sons. They are

exci�ng the entrepreneurial energies and the infec�ous start-up culture

that has made our younger genera�on and India the focus of world

a�en�on and admira�on.

In my travels across the country and my engagements with all sec�ons of

our society, I have sensed apprecia�on for such efforts and hard-won

advancement. This is more so in the percep�on of senior genera�ons that

have lived through and striven to overcome the shortage economy. In area

a�er area, commodity a�er commodity, we have converted difficulty into

availability. We have done this step-by-step and year-by-year. And yet

whether in foodgrains or LPG cylinders, telephone connec�ons or even the

ability to get a passport, change is apparent and visible. In many cases,

technology has been a force mul�plier. And in all cases, inclusiveness has

been a moral mul�plier.

No concep�on of India's development can be complete without a salute to

our spirit of inclusiveness – of access and opportunity for all; of an

expansion and an embrace of those whom we consider our own. This

country belongs to each and all of us – every group and community, every

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

10

region and iden�ty. It belongs to every ci�zen and every individual. India's

pluralism is its greatest strength and example to the world. The “Indian

model” rests on a tripod of diversity, democracy and development. We

cannot choose one above the other; we must have all three and we will

have all three.

The best indicator of social change in India is change towards gender equity

and towards providing equal opportuni�es, under condi�ons of equality, to

every girl child and woman. In my experience, when given the chance, our

daughters tend to not just equal but outperform our sons in the classroom.

Young women in our country are moving ahead in every field – from

academics to the crea�ve arts, from sports to the armed forces. There is no

stopping and no hesita�on in this process. It is the route to India's future.

Our Republic has come a long way and we must appreciate how far

successive genera�ons have brought us. We must appreciate that our

voyage is far from complete. There are s�ll waters to cover, gaps to fill and

tears to wipe. We have to recalibrate our yards�ck of achievement and

success – from quan�ty to quality; from a literate society to a knowledge

society; from a na�on that has room for all segments and all communi�es to

a family that invokes, encourages and celebrates the uniqueness and

poten�al in each person – each daughter and each son.

In his book “India of My Dreams”, Mahatma Gandhi wrote of an India where

the poorest will have an “effec�ve voice”, where there will be no “high class

and low class”, where “all communi�es shall live in perfect harmony”, and

where “women will enjoy the same rights as men”. These ideals are a

constant reminder of the India that we are building. In this context, the

recent cons�tu�onal amendment to provide special facili�es for talented

children from poorer families is another step to an India of our dreams – and

of Gandhiji's dreams.

The human experience is built on partnerships. Partnerships at home build a

family. Partnerships at work build a business. Partnerships of different

stakeholders build a society. Partnerships of the government and the people

build a na�on. And partnerships of na�ons build a be�er world. In this manner

partnerships are the threads kni�ng together a family, na�on and world – and

leading to the treatment of the World as a Family: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Partnerships are enhanced by open communica�on, honest conversa�on

and uns�nted compassion. This is true with members of our families. This is

also true with sec�ons or groups that have been historically disadvantaged

and whose grievances must con�nue to be heard and addressed. It is

important to create avenues for such conversa�ons, even if they are

ACHIEVING THE REPUBLIC'S VISION:

COMMITMENT TO LIBERTY, FRATERNITY & EQUALITY

11

12

inconvenient. In a society experiencing rapid change, we must be prepared

for such conversa�ons. And similarly we must be alive to the need for

compassion – to those less privileged than us and to the differently-abled,

for example.

Our society has shown great regard for

those, whether individuals or ins�tu�ons,

who devote themselves to people's welfare

and go beyond the call of duty. The concept

of seva, of devo�on to public service and to

the broadening of the ambit of jus�ce,

must get its due. Well- inten�oned

contribu�ons of individuals, of groups of

people, of ins�tu�ons, whether public or

private, of society at large, or for that

ma�er of the government, must be

acknowledged and appreciated.

These are guiding principles for us at home

as well as abroad. These are guiding

principles that shape India's global approach

– whether in peace-keeping, climate change

mi�ga�on, development partnerships, or

humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

These are earning India a new respect in the interna�onal system.

These are the principles that are at the root of our Republic. Our Republic's

vision is that of reaching democra�c goals by democra�c means, pluralis�c

goals by pluralis�c means, enlightened goals by enlightened means,

inclusive goals by inclusive means, compassionate goals by compassionate

means – and cons�tu�onal goals by cons�tu�onal means.

May those principles always illuminate our path! A�er all, “We, the People

…” gave ourselves this Cons�tu�on and “We, the People …” are the

custodians and upholders of its principles.

With those words, I once again wish all of you a happy Republic Day.

Address to the Na�on on the eve of the 70�� Republic Day in New Delhi on January 25, 2019

““ Our Republic's

vision is that of reaching

democra�c goals by

democra�c means,

pluralis�c goals by pluralis�c

means, enlightened goals by

enlightened means,

inclusive goals by inclusive

means, compassionate

goals by compassionate

means – and cons�tu�onal

goals by cons�tu�onal

means

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

n the annals of our democracy, 2019 is an important milestone. We, the I thpeople of India, are celebra�ng the 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma thGandhi, the Father of the Na�on this year. 13 April will also mark 100

years of the tragic massacre at Jallianwala Bagh. On behalf of the en�re

na�on, I bow to pay tribute to all the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for a

bright future for us.

thThis year, our country will also celebrate the 70 anniversary of the

Cons�tu�on Day. It is in this historic Central Hall that the illustrious

architects of our Cons�tu�on had sculpted the Cons�tu�on of India. We are thalso celebra�ng the 550 birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji who taught

us to lead our lives with the spirit of service and goodwill.

I am glad that our country is following the dreams of Gandhiji to build an

inclusive society based on ethics and principles. Our na�on is also moving

ahead guided by the ideals of social and economic jus�ce as enshrined in

the Cons�tu�on by Baba Saheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar. The efforts of my

Government clearly reflect a belief in an egalitarian society as espoused by

Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia, the torch bearer of public conscience against the

poli�cs of exploita�on.

Prior to the 2014 General Elec�on, the country was passing through a phase

of uncertainty. A�er the elec�ons, my Government assumed charge and

vowed to build a new India. A new India with no place for imperfect, corrupt

and iner�a ridden systems. From day one, the mission of my Government,

based on transparency, was to improve the lives of our ci�zens, to eradicate

their difficul�es owing to poor governance, and to make sure that the

benefit of public services reach the lowest strata of the society.

The targets of my Government were determined by countless and helpless

faces such as - that poor mother who cooked in a smoke-filled kitchen; that

helpless sister, who despite being seriously ill was compelled to postpone her

own treatment due to financial worries; that daughter who had to wait the

whole day un�l the cover of darkness for going to the toilet; that child who

was compelled to wait for daylight to study because there was no electricity;

that farmer who was caught in the anxiety of repaying his loan while watching

his crops damaged by hail storm; that youth who was unable to earn his

livelihood because no bank would lend to him. These thoughts have shaped

the schemes of my Government. These ideals of Deen Dayal Upadhyaya's

Antyodaya have been the touchstone of my Government's work.

MARCHING TOWARDS A NEW INDIA

13

In the last four and a half years, my Government has infused new hope and

confidence among the people of the country, enhanced the country's

image and has effec�vely brought in social and economic change. As a

result, my Government has been able to win immeasurable affec�on and

trust of the people. The main goal of my Government is to improve the life

of every Indian.

For an inclusive and modern development of our country, it needs to be

ensured that not a single family is deprived of its fundamental needs. My

Government, which is sensi�ve to the needs of the common people and

understands their pain, has priori�sed the provision of basic ameni�es,

addressed health concerns of the people and implemented Government

schemes at an unprecedented pace a�er restructuring them.

�Espousing universal compassion towards all, Lord Basavanna had said:

^n;os /keZn ewy o¸;k*

(Dayave dharmad mool vayyaa)

That is “Kindness is the basis of all faiths”. Every human being must possess

affec�on and kindness in his heart for all living beings.

Lack of toilets had forced crores of Indians, especially our daughters and

daughters-in-law to lead an undignified and unhealthy life. Under the

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, more than 9 crore toilets have been constructed. It

is the outcome of this mass movement that coverage of rural sanita�on that

was less than 40 per cent in 2014 has increased to 98 per cent. According to

an assessment, because of the toilets built, numerous poor persons have

been spared of various kind of diseases and more than 3 lakh lives have thbeen saved. In the year of the 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi,

we must remember that we have resolved in his memory to achieve Swachh ndBharat by 2 October.

Many of our mothers, sisters and daughters used to suffer from various

illnesses because of smoke-filled kitchens, which also affected health of the

en�re family; and much of their effort and �me were spent in collec�ng

firewood. My Government has provided more than 6 crore cooking gas

connec�ons to such sisters and daughters under the Ujjwala Yojana. Even

a�er decades of efforts, there were only 12 crore gas connec�ons in the

country in 2014. In a short period of last four and a half years, 13 crore

families have been provided gas connec�ons.

We are fully aware that the burden of expenditure on medical treatment

further impoverishes the poor families. Empathising with this pain, my

Government has launched the Ayushman Bharat Yojana last year. Under the

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

14

world's biggest health care scheme, Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Abhiyan,

50 crore poor are eligible for availing treatment up to Rs 5 lakh per year per

family in case of a serious illness. In a short period of four months, more

than 10 lakh poor have already availed free treatment from hospitals under

this scheme.

The endeavour of my Government has also been on reducing the burden of

out-of-pocket expenses on medical care for the poor and the middle class.

Under Pradhan Mantri Bhara�ya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana, 4,900 Jan

Aushadhi Centres have been opened in more than 600 districts. More than

700 different medicines are being dispensed at low cost in these Centres.

Similarly, reduc�on in the cost of cardiac stents has resulted in annual

savings of about Rs. 4,600 crore to the poor and middle class. Reduc�on in

the cost of knee replacement has led to an annual saving of about Rs. 1,500

crore. My Government has provided the facility of dialysis free of cost to

those suffering from kidney diseases. This has resulted in a saving of more

than Rs 2,000 per session for these people.

In addi�on, for a premium of just one rupee a month under Pradhan Mantri

Suraksha Bima Yojana and 90 paise a day under Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyo�

Bima Yojana, as many as 21 crore poor brothers and sisters have been

provided with insurance coverage. An assistance of Rs 2 lakh in the event of

an untoward incident is made available to them under both the schemes. By

disbursing more than Rs. 3,100 crore under these schemes �ll now, my

Government has supported the people in their �mes of difficulty.

My Government is also striving hard to alleviate the challenge of

malnutri�on among poor women and children. For this purpose, my

Government has launched the Na�onal Nutri�on Mission for persons

suffering from malnutri�on and to eliminate the factors responsible for

malnutri�on. Mission Indradhanush has been launched by the Government

to provide immuniza�on facili�es to children and pregnant women living in

remote and tribal areas. As a result, the country has moved rapidly towards

the target of “Universal Immuniza�on”.

Be it ci�es or villages, the Government is working at a fast pace to

strengthen the healthcare related infrastructure. New medical colleges are

being set up by the Government, district hospitals are being upgraded and

Wellness Centres are being established in all major Panchayats of the

country. From Madurai in Tamil Nadu to Pulwama in Jammu-Kashmir; and

from Rajkot in Gujarat to Kamrup in Assam, new AIIMS are being

established. Government is se�ng up new Ayurveda Science Ins�tutes and

encouraging yoga for physical and mental well-being. To address the

MARCHING TOWARDS A NEW INDIA

15

shortage of doctors in rural areas, 31 thousand new seats have been added

in medical educa�on in the last four years.

When my Government set a target that by 2022 when the na�on celebrates th75 anniversary of its independence, no family would remain homeless,

many wondered how this would be possible. While comple�ng the houses

under the earlier scheme, the Government has also fast-tracked the

construc�on of houses across ci�es and villages under the Pradhan Mantri

Awas Yojana, in an unprecedented manner.

In the last four-and-a-half years, 1 crore and 30 lakh homes have been

constructed under the rural housing schemes of the Government, whereas

in the five years preceding 2014, only 25 lakh houses had been constructed.

This five-fold increase in the speed of construc�on of houses and handing

over the house keys to the poor is rapidly transforming the des�ny of the

poor and the rural landscape.

Similarly, buying or building a house in the ci�es has become easier for the

common person. The dream of building one's own home had become

difficult for people due to black money and rising costs. By enac�ng RERA

law, my Government has ensured that construc�on of houses is completed

and are handed over to the buyers as scheduled so that the hard-earned

money of buyers does not get stuck. A�er enactment of this law, about 35

thousand Real Estate Projects have been registered where lakhs of houses

are being constructed and handed over to families.

Under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, the Government is also giving interest

subsidy of 6 and a half per cent to persons belonging to low income group.

According to an es�mate, an individual taking a home loan of Rs 20 lakh for

20 years, would get a benefit of about Rs 6 lakh.

By providing electricity connec�on to every household, my Government is

illumina�ng the life of each person. In 2014, there were more than 18

thousand villages which had no electricity. Today every village has been

electrified. Under Pradhan Mantri Saubhagya Yojana, 2 crore and 47 lakh

homes have been provided electricity connec�on. Now India is rapidly

moving on the path where every home is electrified and no poor household

will be forced to live in darkness.

My Government is working hard towards the realisa�on of the dreams and

aspira�ons of all sec�ons of the society. By decreasing the burden of income

tax and keeping the rate of infla�on under control, Government has created

new opportuni�es for expanding the savings of the middle class. The effort

of the Government is to increase the income of the hard working middle

class and provide avenues for investment to further augment their incomes.

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

16

When the na�on was fortunate to have a visionary and compassionate

Prime Minister in Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who understood the pain of the

poor; several new Departments and Ministries were created and new

programmes were launched. A separate Ministry for the North East, a

Ministry for welfare of the Tribals, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and connec�ng

the na�on through Golden Quadrilateral were singular contribu�ons of

Atalji. He undertook a grand ini�a�ve to eliminate widespread dispari�es

prevailing in the country. The programmes and Ministries conceived by

Atalji played a vital role in elimina�ng the social imbalances during the

ini�al years of 21st Century. But unfortunately these ini�a�ves did not get

the desired momentum and con�nuity in subsequent years.

We are all aware that if our Divyang brothers and sisters are provided

assistance to ameliorate their physical difficul�es, they can achieve new

heights on their own. With this in mind, the Ministry of Social Jus�ce and

Empowerment established by Atalji had started the tradi�on of organising

camps to assist the Divyangjans. But the situa�on was so dismal that up to

2014 only 56 such camps could be organised.

A�er forma�on of my Government in 2014, following the vision of Atalji,

efforts were made with full sensi�vity to solve the problems of Divyangjans.

In the past four-and-a-half years my Government has been organising 140

camps on an average every month where Divyangjans are receiving

assis�ve equipments. During this period, assis�ve equipments worth Rs

700 crore have been distributed to about 12 lakh Divyangjans in a fully

transparent manner.

We are all familiar with the ordeals faced by Divyangjans at railway sta�ons

and bus stands while commu�ng. My Government under the Sugamya

Bharat Abhiyan has made about 1,000 Government buildings and more

than 650 railway sta�ons fully accessible to Divyangjans.

Children using sign language in one State had to face considerable difficulty

due to different types of sign languages in other States. In many instances,

mul�ple sign languages were being used within a State. Taking note of their

difficulty, my Government started working on a uniform sign language for

Divyangjan applicable throughout the country. A dic�onary for the

Divyangjan with 3,000 words has already been published by the Delhi-

based Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre and the work on

another dic�onary with 3,000 new words is in progress. In addi�on, the

Central Government has made about 100 websites compliant to the needs

of Divyangjan. Through the enactment of 'The Rights of Persons with

Disabili�es Act, 2016', my Government has provided them with equal

opportunity in educa�on, social security and employment.

MARCHING TOWARDS A NEW INDIA

17

Tragic accidents at unmanned railway crossings have for years been a

subject of discussion in our country. This subject has also been raised many

�mes in the Parliament. In 2014, unmanned crossings in the country

numbered 8,300. My Government undertook a mission to eliminate

unmanned railway crossings, which have now almost been done away with.

Our ci�zens have to frequently deal with natural calami�es of one kind or

the other. Every year, there are floods in some districts and drought in some

others. My Government is fully focussed on the management of natural

disasters and financial assistance has been more than doubled so that relief

work can be performed with full capacity. Be it the cyclonic storms in

southern States or the floods in eastern India, my Government has

exhibited promptness and sensi�vity in relief and rehabilita�on works.

Mindful of the prevalence of injus�ce and depriva�on in the society, my

Government has been working towards reforming the legal system so as to

ensure social and economic jus�ce. The Ci�zenship Amendment Bill will

help in the securing of Indian ci�zenship by those vic�ms who were

persecuted and were compelled to seek refuge in India. These people

cannot be blamed since they were vic�ms of circumstances.

My Government has made a provision for capital punishment in the case of

heinous crimes like rape of minors. In many States, capital punishment has

been awarded a�er expedi�ously comple�ng the hearing which has sent

out a strong message to persons with such perverted thinking.

With a view to liberate our Muslim daughters from a life of fear and anxiety

and to provide them with an equal right to lead their lives at par with other

daughters, my Government is striving hard to get the Triple Talaq Bill passed

by the Parliament.

Similarly, the gran�ng of Cons�tu�onal status to the 'Other Backward

Classes Commission' demonstrates my Government's commitment

towards social jus�ce.

A historic decision has been taken in the last Winter Session of Parliament to rdpass the 103 Amendment to the Cons�tu�on to extend the benefit of

reserva�on to the poor belonging to the general category. This is an effort to

provide jus�ce and equal opportunity to those poor young men and women

who felt le� out because of poverty. To ensure that this new dispensa�on

has no impact on the exis�ng reserva�on, the number of seats in

educa�onal ins�tu�ons are being increased propor�onately.

Youth are the greatest strength of our na�on. India has the largest number

of young people in the world, and the policy decisions of my Government

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

18

have been inspired by the aspira�ons and dreams of the young Indians of st21 century.

Keeping in mind the desire of the youth to be self-reliant, the Kaushal Vikas

Abhiyan was launched. Under this Abhiyan, in the last four years, on an

average one crore youth have been trained every year in different skills. In

the coming days, more than 15,000 ITIs, more than 10,000 Kaushal Vikas

Kendras and more than 600 Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Kendras, will play

a cri�cal role in developing the skill-set of the country's youth.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, which facilitates credit for

professional and business requirements, loans worth more than Rs. 7 lakh

crore have been disbursed to the youth without any guarantee. More than

15 crore people have benefi�ed and over 4 crore 26 lakh first �me

borrowers have started their business under this scheme.

Under Start Up India and Stand Up India, my Government has provided

financial assistance to make the youth self-reliant. As a result, in the world

of startups, India now figures as a frontline country.

The Government has linked crea�on of jobs with tax incen�ves under

Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana. Under this scheme, when a young

person gets a new job, the EPS and EPF contribu�on of 12 per cent payable

by the employer is being paid by the Government for the first three years.

More than 1 crore youth have already benefi�ed from this scheme.

Every parent aspires for a good educa�on for their children so that they can

succeed in life. Government is establishing new educa�onal ins�tu�ons to

provide increased opportuni�es for professional educa�on of the highest

standard. 7 IITs, 7 IIMs, 14 IIITs, 1 NIT and 4 NIDs are being established. It has

been decided to enhance the amount of scholarship and fellowship by

more than 25 per cent to encourage research ac�vi�es in the country. In

addi�on, efforts are being made to further strengthen the founda�on of the

educa�on system by opening 103 Kendriya Vidyalayas, Eklavya Model

Awasiya Vidyalayas in all talukas having a majority tribal popula�on and 62

new Navodaya Vidyalayas.

To improve the standard of educa�on, Government is following a mul�-

dimensional approach. To secure the future of the country, it is impera�ve

that children s�ll studying in schools get full opportunity to transform their

flight of imagina�on into concrete reality. The Government is se�ng up

more than 5,000 Atal Tinkering Labs for taking ideas to innova�on.

With changing �mes and evolving technology, methods and processes of

employment and business are also changing. My Government is constantly

working to ensure the preparedness of youth of our country for such changes.

MARCHING TOWARDS A NEW INDIA

19

My Government is making efforts to iden�fy talented sportspersons from

different corners of this country under the youth-centric 'Khelo India'

programme. Transparency in selec�on process has boosted the morale of

our sportspersons. The result is reflected in the number of medals won by

us at na�onal and interna�onal levels.

Our daughters are making remarkable contribu�on in every field today and

have brought laurels to the country. It is for the first �me since independence

that the policies and programmes of the Government have created

numerous new opportuni�es for enterprise for women and led to their

empowerment and economic mainstreaming.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, the maximum benefit has been

availed by women. Out of the 15 crore Mudra loans provided so far

throughout the country, 73 percent have been disbursed to women

entrepreneurs. Under the Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana, about 6 crore

women have become members of Self Help Groups. My Government has

provided loans worth more than Rs 75 thousand crore to such Self Help

Groups. This amount is two and a half �mes more than the loans given in the

four years preceding 2014.

In order to ensure the par�cipa�on of women entrepreneurs in small and

medium enterprises, it has been made mandatory for major Government

companies to purchase at least 3 per cent of their material from the

enterprises owned by women entrepreneurs.

My Government is also making efforts to address the problem of gender-

based discrimina�on faced by women in different spheres. Last year, a

decision was taken whereby women officers recruited under the Short

Service Commission in the armed forces would be considered for

permanent commission through a transparent selec�on process just like

their male counterparts. Women, who had been deprived of employment

opportuni�es in the underground mining sector even a�er so many years of

independence, will now be given equal opportunity to work in this sector.

To enable working women to devote more �me towards the upbringing of

their newborn children during their crucial forma�ve years, the

Government has enhanced maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks.

Despite the scorching sun, heavy downpour, snow fall, or any other

challenge, the hardworking farmers of our country have toiled day and

night to produce record food grain harvest. There has been an increase in

dairy and fish produc�on, as also in other areas. Many of you have

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

20

witnessed village life and the struggles of the farmers from very close

quarters. Our farmer brothers and sisters are not only the founda�on of our

economy, but they also keep our tradi�ons alive.

On behalf of this august House, I compliment our annadata farmers. My

Government is striving day and night to a�ain the goal of doubling farmers'

income. Understanding the needs of farmers, the Government is seeking to

find permanent solu�ons to their problems. It is the priority of the

Government to provide be�er facili�es and assistance to farmers for the

en�re spectrum of agriculture ac�vi�es from purchase of equipment and

seeds to transporta�on of produce and its sale.

Work is being carried out with a new approach for reducing the cost of

farming, providing the farmers with fair price for their crops, providing

access to new markets and helping them with addi�onal sources of income.

My Government has taken the historic decision of fixing the Minimum

Support Price (MSP) of 22 crops at one-and-a-half �mes higher than the

produc�on cost of the crop.

In addi�on, it is being ensured that good quality seeds are made available to

the farmers. The number of Krishi Vigyan Kendras is being increased across

the country to assist the farmers with scien�fic methods of farming. More

than 17 crore Soil Health Cards have been distributed to inform the farmers

about the health of the soil. 100 per cent neem coa�ng of urea has been

done to facilitate its availability and to prevent its misuse.

My Government is comple�ng 99 incomplete old irriga�on projects so that

farmers do not face any hurdle in irriga�on. 71 of these projects will be

completed by the next few months. Micro-irriga�on is also being promoted

by the Government to ensure full u�lisa�on of every drop of water.

Crop insurance is being provided to farmers at low premium under the

'Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana' to safeguard them from poten�al crisis

due to crop damage. A campaign has been launched to link online more

than 1,500 Agricultural Mandis to facilitate market access to farmers. Cold

storage capaci�es are being increased at a fast pace to minimise crop

damage from the field to the market and to ensure proper storage. The

'Waste to Wealth' campaign is being implemented to ensure that farmers

generate addi�onal income out of the crop residue from their field.

Under the Blue Revolu�on scheme, my Government is providing training to

fishermen in deep sea fishing and financial assistance for buying modern

fishing trawlers.

MARCHING TOWARDS A NEW INDIA

21

These comprehensive interven�ons will trigger a permanent transforma�on

in our 70-year old agriculture system, empower our annadata farmers, pull

them out of their problems; and do jus�ce to their poten�al.

By lending momentum to schemes linked with the Digital India programme,

my Government is trying to provide full advantage of e-governance to

people living in rural areas. In 2014, only 59 village panchayats in the

country had digital connec�vity. Today, 1 lakh 16 thousand village

panchayats are connected with op�cal fibre and about 40 thousand village

panchayats have been provided with wi-fi hotspots.

Establishment of Common Service Centres has been accelerated to ensure

that various benefits and services are easily available to brothers and sisters

in rural areas. In these Centres, facili�es like banking, insurance, pension

and scholarship etc are being made available online to the village folk. In

2014 there were only 84 thousand Common Service Centres. Today, their

number has increased to more than 3 lakhs. Of these, 2 lakh and 12

thousand centres have been set up in village panchayats.

In this era of informa�on technology, easy availability of data at low cost is a big

facility as well as means for development for our people. The cost of one GB

data which was about Rs. 250 in 2014 has now reduced to only Rs. 10 to 12.

Similarly, the mobile talk�me charges have now been reduced to less than half.

Earlier, it was almost impossible for ordinary entrepreneurs to supply their

products to Government Departments. The Government has now

developed an online pla�orm called GeM i.e. Government e-Marketplace

for public procurement. This pla�orm has helped in bringing transparency

in public procurement and at the same �me has provided an opportunity to

entrepreneurs in big and small ci�es as well as villages to sell their products

without any difficulty to the Government.

Recently, in order to simplify the processes, the Government has started

a scheme wherein loans of amounts up to Rs.1 crore are approved within

59 minutes.

The great Saint Thiruvalluvar has said:

^^b;Vªyqe bêyqe dkÙkyqe dkÙk]oxqÙkyqe~ oYyn vjlq**

(Iya�ralum ee�alum kaa�alum kaa�a,

Vagu�alum vallad arasu)

�That is, a well governed State is one where there is adequate growth in

assets and services, where assets are well distributed and protected, and all

ci�zens get their fair share.

22

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

We are all aware of the dismal state of banking facili�es for the poor, that

existed even 45 years a�er the na�onalisa�on of banks. The Jan Dhan

Yojana of my Government is an excellent example of how the founda�on of

major economic transforma�on can be laid out. This scheme is not merely

for opening new bank accounts; its objec�ves are far wider. This scheme is

not only ushering in economic inclusion of the poor, it is also increasing

their self-confidence.

34 crore bank accounts have been opened in the country because of 'Jan

Dhan Yojana' and almost every family is now connected to the banking

system. According to an interna�onal agency, of all the bank accounts

opened in the world from 2014 to 2017, 55 percent were opened in India

alone. Beyond these numbers, it is important to appreciate the posi�ve

impact of this ini�a�ve on the na�on's economy.

Our mothers and sisters always used to save some money for difficult �mes.

But o�en these savings were spent on daily needs. Today, Rs 88 thousand

crore deposited in Jan Dhan accounts is a tes�mony to the changing saving

habits. It is only because of the Jan Dhan scheme that wages from MGNREGA,

benefits from different insurance schemes, scholarships, pensions and most

other Government benefits are being credited directly into the bank

accounts of the poor through DBT. Jan Dhan accounts have succeeded in

elimina�ng the middlemen between the Government and the poor.

Jan Dhan Yojana is playing an important role in facilita�ng cost effec�ve

digital transac�ons in the country through more than 60 crore Rupay debit

cards and BHIM App. Similarly Government is bringing banking services

closer to the people through the India Post Payments Bank setup in the post

offices. As a result, the whole world has taken note of this step towards

financial inclusion in India.

Whereas many social welfare programmes had been in existence for the

past several decades, they had failed to produce the desired impact. The

alertness, ac�on-oriented approach and good inten�on displayed by my

Government towards the aspira�ons and difficul�es of ci�zens have made

it possible to bring about large scale visible changes.

While giving a clear majority to my Government in 2014, the people of the

country had also given a clear mandate to take strict ac�on against

corrup�on and black money. My Government has come down heavily on

corrup�on in the past four-and-a-half years. Being sensi�ve to public

sen�ment, my Government has waged a war on corrup�on and black

money from day one, and approved the cons�tu�on of a Special

Inves�ga�on Team (SIT) on black money in the first mee�ng of the Cabinet.

23

MARCHING TOWARDS A NEW INDIA

Therea�er, Government enacted a new and strict law on black money. My

Government also carried out a campaign against illegally acquired assets in

foreign countries. New agreements were signed with several countries

known as tax havens, and several others were signed with many other

countries to rec�fy deficiencies in exis�ng agreements.

While preven�ng the flow of black money abroad, my Government also

launched a major campaign against black money within the country. New laws

were enacted for sectors thriving on black money, and those were brought

under the ambit of taxa�on. Amid these ac�ons, Government also provided

an opportunity to voluntarily disclose unaccounted income and wealth.

Demone�sa�on was a defining moment in the Government's war on

corrup�on and black money. This decision struck at the very root of the

parallel economy thriving on black money; and the money outside the

formal system was brought within the ambit of na�on's economy.

This ac�on of the Government broke the back of the forces destabilising the

country; and the systems sustaining the flow of black money. The registra�on

of 3 lakh 38 thousand dubious shell companies responsible for flow of black

money have been annulled by the Government. The directors of these

companies have also been prohibited from holding such offices again.

Assets worth more than Rs 50 thousand crore are being confiscated under

the Benami Property Act, Preven�on of Money Laundering Act and the law

against fugi�ve economic offenders. As a result of the policies of my

Government, black money in real estate sector has declined substan�ally,

the prices of houses have come down and the dream of a normal middle

class family for possessing their own house is being realised.

I am pleased that on account of these policies of my Government, people's

trust in the Government has increased, and there has been a sharp increase

in the number of persons paying income tax. Whereas prior to 2014, 3.8

crore people had filed their return, this number has increased and more

than 6.8 crore people have come forward to file their returns. Today, the tax

payer is confident that each paisa contributed by him or her is being spent

honestly on na�on building.

My Government believes that corrup�on and black money cons�tute a grave

injus�ce towards the honest taxpayer of the country. Corrup�on always

infringes on the rights of some poor or middle class person. The Government

is relying on applica�on of modern technology to address this situa�on.

As a result of the expansion in Direct Benefit Transfer in the last four and a

half years, more than Rs 6 lakh 5 thousand crore have been directly

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

24

transferred to the bank accounts of beneficiaries. About Rs. 1 lakh 10

thousand crore has been saved from falling into wrong hands. Government

has removed about 8 crore fic��ous names which were being used by

middlemen to misappropriate the righ�ul benefits of genuine beneficiaries.

In order to build a strong na�on, it is impera�ve that we develop our

economy in such a manner that will help our fellow ci�zens to progress with

transparency and honesty.

Prior to 2014, auc�on of coal mines used to be a subject of discussion due to

lack of transparency. My Government developed a transparent system for

auc�on of coal mines and has protected this na�onal resource. Banks and

creditors have directly or indirectly dealt with Rs 3 lakh crore a�er the new

Bankruptcy and Insolvency Code has come into effect. The tendency to avail

large loans and misappropriate them with an intent to default has

been curbed.

While Sardar Patel with his extraordinary abili�es had accomplished the

challenging objec�ve of geographic and poli�cal integra�on of the na�on,

the task of economic integra�on remained incomplete. Our traders and

entrepreneurs always faced difficul�es in sale and purchase of their goods

and in complying with different tax regimes prevalent in different States.

Now with the implementa�on of a comprehensive tax reform like GST, the

concept of 'One Na�on-One Tax-One Market' has been realised. GST is

proving instrumental in establishing an honest and transparent system of

trade and commerce which is also benefi�ng the country's youth. This

system, while reducing the difficul�es faced by traders, has enhanced their

ease of doing business across the country. I congratulate my compatriots for

wholeheartedly embracing the new system in a short span of �me in the

interest of a be�er future for the country, in spite of the ini�al bo�lenecks.

My Government is con�nuously improving the GST regime keeping in view

the sugges�ons being received from the business community.

The primary focus of my Government has been to enable our youth to earn

their livelihood with dignity, while also crea�ng employment opportuni�es

for others. In order to facilitate self-employment, my Government has

introduced wide ranging reforms, which are being appreciated globally. As a

result of these reforms, India's posi�on has improved by 65 places in the

Ease of Doing Business ranking, from 142 in 2014 to 77 now. This is an

extraordinary achievement.

During the last four and a half years, the economy of the country has been

growing at a rate of 7.3 per cent on an average. India is playing a significant

role in interna�onal trade. While India's contribu�on to the world GDP was

MARCHING TOWARDS A NEW INDIA

25

2.6 per cent in 2014, it has increased to 3.3 per cent in 2017 as per the latest threports. India has emerged as the 6 largest economy in the world. This is

than opportune moment for the country to play a decisive role in the 4

industrial revolu�on and my Government is commi�ed to ensure that our

ci�zens take full benefit of this opportunity.

As a result of the 'Make in India' ini�a�ve effec�ve outcomes in the field of

industrial development and employment genera�on are clearly visible. Now

India is the 2nd largest manufacturer of mobile phones in the world. Recently,

the milestone of conver�ng diesel locomo�ves into 10 thousand horsepower

electric engines has also been established by India. As a part of Make in India

ini�a�ve, Asia's largest MedTech Zone is being established in Andhra Pradesh.

Defence Corridors are being established in U�ar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu,

which will not only strengthen our security through establishment of

produc�on facili�es for defence equipment, but also provide employment to

the youth. Soon, the passengers will also be able to avail the ultra-modern

facili�es of our fastest train �ll date – 'Vande Bharat Express'.

I also want to congratulate the scien�sts and engineers of our country who

are �relessly working for recogni�on of India's prowess in this era of

modern technology. The scien�sts and engineers from ISRO in par�cular

are proving their pre-eminent posi�on in the world by se�ng new records

in launching satellites. I, on behalf of the na�on, convey our best wishes to

our scien�sts and engineers for 'Mission Gaganyaan'.

The focus of my Government on �mely comple�on of tasks, with

accountability, has resulted in increasing the confidence of the people in

Government func�oning and has enhanced the pace of development. My

Government has established a reputa�on for �me bound comple�on

of projects.

Many projects where delays in comple�on had become synonymous with

injus�ce to common people of this country such as India's longest Bogibeel

railroad bridge in Assam, Western Peripheral Expressway near Delhi, Kollam

Bypass in Kerala have been fast-tracked and completed. By comple�ng

these projects, my Government has done jus�ce to the resources of the

na�on and aspira�ons of the people.

Developing modern infrastructure for economic development as per the stneeds of 21 century is the aspira�on of every Indian, and in par�cular the

middle class. Sensi�ve to their aspira�ons, my Government is comple�ng

new projects at a fast pace.

The airport terminal constructed at Prayagraj in a record period of 11

months is an evident example. Last year, the country's first container vessel

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

26

sailed along the na�onal waterway from Kolkata and reached Varanasi.

Eastern Peripheral Expressway, started in November 2015, has also been

dedicated to the na�on last year.

My Government believes that eastern part of India comprising east U�ar

Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha and the States of North- East, has the

poten�al to become a new 'Growth Engine'. Therefore, my Government is

relentlessly striving to strengthen the infrastructure related to railways,

highways, waterways and airways in Eastern India.

Under the Udan Yojana, 19 new airports are being built in Eastern India and

of these 5 are coming up in the North East. The construc�on of Pakyong

airport in Sikkim and Veer Surendra Sai Airport at Jharsuguda in Odisha has

been completed.

The work of reconstruc�on of fer�lizer plants at Gorakhpur in U�ar

Pradesh, Barauni in Bihar and Sindri in Jharkhand, which were closed for

several years, is progressing rapidly. The Urja Ganga Pariyojana started with

an approximate outlay of Rs. 13 thousand crores will help expand the

industries based on gas pipeline in several ci�es of Eastern India.

My Government is se�ng up new AIIMS and new Indian Agriculture Research

Ins�tutes in Eastern India and has also established a Central University at East

Champaran-Mo�hari, the 'Karma-bhumi' of Mahatma Gandhi.�

Similarly, the work on the Gas Cracker Project which is important for Assam

and Paradip Oil Refinery in Odisha has also been expedited. The Dhola

Sadiya Bridge named a�er Bhupen Hazarika, linking Assam and Arunachal

Pradesh has already been dedicated to the na�on. Out of the 18 thousand

villages electrified by the Government, about 13 thousand villages are in

Eastern India and out of these 5 thousand villages are in the remote areas of

the North-East.

My Government is working towards bringing about a transforma�on

through transport and tourism in order to make the lives of the people of

North-East easier. Almost all the railway lines of the North-East have been

converted to broad gauge. Efforts are underway to provide rail connec�vity

to the capital ci�es of all the 8 States. For this, the work on 15 new rail lines is

under progress at a cost of approximately Rs.50 thousand crores.

Be it the country's fastest train, the highest bridge, the longest sea-link, the

longest tunnel, construc�on of highways at double the speed or gauge

conversion of railway tracks, modern faceli� of railway sta�ons or metro

projects in ci�es, air connec�vity among small towns or construc�on of a

new waterway, my Government is rapidly developing modern infrastructure

MARCHING TOWARDS A NEW INDIA

27

in all these areas. Keeping environment conserva�on in mind, my

Government is moving forward on the electric mobility front.

In order to make the latest technology-based systems available in our ci�es

so that they can become growth engines of the economy, modern facili�es

are being developed in 100 ci�es under the Smart City Mission.

The na�on is moving at a fast pace in the civil avia�on sector also. This sector

has seen a double digit growth during the last four years. More than 12 crore

and 30 lakh people travelled by air during 2017-18 and this number is

increasing constantly. This transforma�on, offers a glimpse of an India on

the move. Under the Udan scheme, 12 lakh seats have been made available

to people at lower tariffs. This has provided the common person with an

opportunity of air travel.

In addi�on, in the last four and a half years Government has established

more than 300 new Passport Sewa Kendras in the country. Prior to 2014,

there were 77 Passport Sewa Kendras, which have now increased to more

than 400. People are no longer required to repeatedly visit big ci�es for

ge�ng their passports.

In the all-round development of the country, a pivotal role is played by our

labourer brothers and sisters, small and medium entrepreneurs, engineers,

auditors, doctors, teachers, scien�sts and every professional. All these

responsible ci�zens have lived up to this saying of Sant Ravidas that work is

the best form of worship.

Je dm bZlj tkfu dS] tÅ iwtfg fnu jSu A*jSnkl* frUgfga lalkj eg] lnk feyfg lq[k pSu AA

(Shram kau Isar jaani kai, jau poojahi din rain,

'Raidas' �nahin sansaar mah, sadaa milahi sukh chain)

Those who deem work as God, and worship it day and night, are blessed

with all the worldly joys and contentment.

Our hardworking professionals, whether linked directly or indirectly with

the Government, are watchful of the process of na�on building. When their

hopes and aspira�ons are combined with the willpower of Government

employees, the result is unprecedented, as witnessed by the na�on today.

My Government is also suppor�ng the employees in their hour of need. By thimplemen�ng the recommenda�ons of the 7 Pay Commission, my

Government has strived to improve their living standards.

My Government has worked con�nuously to strengthen the spirit of

Coopera�ve Federalism enshrined in the Cons�tu�on. It has been the

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

28

endeavour of the Government to enable the State Governments to

undertake development work in their respec�ve States in a more effec�ve

manner. In line with this objec�ve, my Government took the decision to

provide the States with 10 percent addi�onal share in taxes as per the

recommenda�ons of the Finance Commission.

The whole world is now talking about Kumbh that is currently underway at

Prayagraj. For this colossal event, world-class infrastructure and other

facili�es on a permanent basis have been developed at a fast pace. The

confluence of Ganga-Yamuna-Saraswa� is se�ng an impressive example of

cleanliness and modern management.

Ganga is not just a river for us but, is like a mother to us, a living symbol of our

culture and faith. To keep Ganga clean is our sacred duty. Under the 'Namami

Gange Mission', projects worth Rs 25,500 crore have been approved so far.

My Government is engaged with the task of cleaning up of the river Ganga by

diver�ng dozens of major drains, stopping flow of industrial effluents and by

se�ng up several Sewage Treatment Plants in the ci�es.

Every ci�zen and the Government are duty bound to honour the contribu�on

of Na�onal heroes. Carrying forward the tradi�on of honouring the builders

of modern India, my Government has dedicated to the na�on the 'Na�onal

Salt Satyagraha Memorial' at Dandi on the death anniversary of Mahatma

Gandhi. Kran� Mandir, a museum in Delhi dedicated to Netaji Subhash

Chandra Bose has been opened to public this month. The Government has

also ins�tuted Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Disaster Management Award in

his honour. The Government has developed 5 sacred places associated with

Baba Saheb Ambedkar as “Panchteerth”. The na�on has paid tribute to the

Iron Man of India Sardar Patel, by building the 'Statue of Unity', which is the

tallest statue in the world. My Government is se�ng up museums in various

States in the memory of the country's tribal freedom fighters.

My Government has conferred the Bharat Ratna on Mahamana Madan

Mohan Malaviya and Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2015. This year it has been

decided to confer Bharat Ratna on Nanaji Deshmukh, Bhupen Hazarika and

Pranab Mukherjee.

By conferring na�onal awards on the basis of merit and without any

discrimina�on to those ci�zens, who have worked selflessly for the welfare

of the people, my Government has demonstrated country's commitment

towards the ideals of sacrifice and service.

In our tradi�on, the Saints and Gurus occupy the highest posi�on. To

commemorate the Prakash Parv of Guru Govind Singhji, the Government

MARCHING TOWARDS A NEW INDIA

29

has released a special coin this month. It is a ma�er of immense pleasure for

all of us that my Government has taken the historic decision to construct the

Kartarpur corridor.

In the Interna�onal context, while India is a staunch supporter of friendly

�es with all countries, there is also a need to constantly strengthen our

capabili�es to tackle any challenges. Through the surgical strike on cross-

border terror posts, India has shown its new strategy and approach towards

the country's security. Last year India joined the handful of countries that

possess the Nuclear Triad capability.

Our defence forces and their morale symbolise the prowess of the India of the st21 century. Not only has my Government fulfilled the demand for One Rank

One Pension that had been pending for 4 decades, but it has also disbursed

arrears amoun�ng to more than Rs 10,700 crore to 20 lakh ex-servicemen.

My Government believes that neglec�ng the country's defence needs is

detrimental to the present as well as future of the country. The new

agreements rela�ng to defence sector signed last year, purchase of new

defence equipment and indigenous produc�on within the country under

the Make in India ini�a�ve have all helped in boos�ng the morale of the

defence forces and increasing the country's military self-reliance. A�er a

gap of many decades, the Indian Air Force is preparing to welcome, in the

coming months, its new genera�on ultra-modern fighter aircra� Rafale and

strengthen its strike capability.

On this occasion, I would also like to congratulate the country's security

forces that are constantly striving to strengthen the country's internal

security. Their concerted efforts have played a crucial role in reducing

terrorism and violence. In the last few years, a record number of youngsters

in the Maoist areas have come forward to join the mainstream. The Police

Memorial, which was dedicated to the na�on last year, seeks to honour

their sacrifice and also preserves the memories of their sacrifice for the

future genera�ons.

My Government is commi�ed to the equitable development of Jammu,

Ladakh and Kashmir. As a result of the efforts of my Government, an

environment favourable to development has been created in the State.

Recently, in Jammu and Kashmir, elec�ons to Urban Local Bodies a�er an

interval of 13 years and in Panchayats a�er 7 years have been conducted

peacefully with more than 70 per cent voters par�cipa�ng enthusias�cally.

Commi�ed to the development of Jammu and Kashmir, my Government

announced a package of Rs. 80 thousand crores. Under the package,

projects related to infrastructure, health and educa�on sectors worth

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

30

more than Rs. 66 thousand crores have been

approved so far.

It is a measure of my Government's diploma�c

success that today India's voice is heard with

respect at interna�onal fora. Pravasi Bhara�ya

Diwas organised recently in Varanasi has streinforced this fact. At the ini�a�ve of India, 21

June was declared as Interna�onal Yoga Day by

the United Na�ons and is now being celebrated

with great enthusiasm across the world. Yoga is

rapidly gaining in popularity at the global level.

India is proud to have gi�ed the outstanding

discipline of Yoga to the world community.

My Government has not only enhanced the credibility and pres�ge of the

passports held by the Indian diaspora but has also stood by them in their hour

of need. During the last four years, more than 2 Lakh 26 thousand Indians

stranded abroad have been rescued and brought back to the country.

The United Na�ons Award for India's efforts in the field of environment

conserva�on has made every Indian proud. It is a ma�er of pride for all of us

that India is providing leadership to the global solar revolu�on and last year

the first summit of the Interna�onal Solar Alliance was successfully

organised in Delhi.

In 2022, India will host the G-20 Summit. Hos�ng the summit in the year thmarking the 75 anniversary celebra�on of our independence will further

enhance India's global influence.

This year our na�on will provide a decisive impetus to our march towards a stpowerful, self-reliant and prosperous 21 century new India. The biggest

fes�val of democracy will be celebrated this year in the form of General

Elec�on. Through this august House, I convey my best wishes to the young

voters who will cast their votes for first �me in this century. As ci�zens of

India, they will exercise their right to vote, and determine the direc�on of the

na�on's policies and decisions.

My Government's efforts are ushering in change for the be�erment of the

country and this process will con�nue. With the blessings and support of

130 crore Indians, my Government has commenced its journey towards

building a New India.

! A New India, where every person has access to basic ameni�es.

! A New India, where every person is healthy, secure and educated

31

““ During the last

four years, more than

2 Lakh 26 thousand

Indians stranded

abroad have been

rescued and brought

back to the

country

MARCHING TOWARDS A NEW INDIA

! A New India, where every person gets an opportunity to nurture his

or her talent, and has equal opportuni�es of advancement.

! A New India, where every child progresses in life without any

depriva�on, and every daughter feels safe.

! A New India, where every person gets jus�ce with dignity.

! A New India, which commands the respect of the en�re world.

Let us all come together to pave the way for a New India and take India to stglorious new heights in the 21 Century.

Address at the joint si�ng of the Parliament on January 31, 2019

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

32

am pleased to address the first joint si�ng of Parliament a�er the Ielec�on of the 17 Lok Sabha, in the year that will commemorate the th

150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. I extend my hear�est th

congratula�ons to all newly elected Members of this Lok Sabha.

�More than 61-crore voters of the country set a new record by cas�ng their

votes and enhanced the credibility of India's democracy in the world.

People stood in long queues, braving extreme heat to cast their votes. This

�me, as compared to previous elec�ons, more women have cast their votes

and their par�cipa�on has been almost equal to men. Crores of youth have

voted for the first �me and played an important role in shaping India's

future. All voters deserve to be congratulated for the success of this

elec�on. I also convey my best wishes to the new Speaker of the Lok Sabha

for this new responsibility.

I congratulate the en�re team of the Elec�on Commission for the successful

comple�on of the world's largest elec�on. The contribu�on of employees

of several administra�ve departments and various ins�tu�ons and the

security forces in the successful conduct of the electoral process is

extremely praiseworthy.

Nearly half the MPs in this Lok Sabha have been elected for the first �me.

The elec�on of 78 women MPs, the highest number in the history of Lok

Sabha, presents the picture of a New India.

It is a ma�er of joy that the reflec�on of India's diversity is visible in this joint

si�ng. People of every age, from villages and ci�es, belonging to every

profession, are members of both the Houses. Many members are

associated with social service, many from the field of agriculture, from

business and economic sphere while other members are from the field of

educa�on, medical profession that saves the lives of people and the legal

profession that provides jus�ce to the people. MPs who have made their

mark in the world of cinema, art, literature and culture are also present

here. I am confident that your unique experiences will contribute to

enriching the discussions in Parliament.

The people of the country have given a clear mandate in this elec�on. A�er

assessing the performance of the Government during the first tenure, the

people have given an even stronger support for a second term. The people

of the country have given a mandate for con�nuing, uninterrupted and at an

accelerated pace, the journey of development which started in 2014. All the

fellow countrymen are familiar with the atmosphere that prevailed in the

CITIZENS' GOVERNMENT

33

country before 2014. In order to take the country out of a sense of gloom

and instability, a�er three decades, the people elected a Government with

absolute majority. Giving the highest regard to that mandate, my

Government started to march forward without any discrimina�on with the

mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas to create a New India.

st On January 31 this year, in this Central Hall, I had said that my Government

from the first day was dedicated to the goal of improving the lives of all

ci�zens, addressing their problems that rose from mis-governance and

providing all basic ameni�es to the last person at the margins of society.

During the last five years, the countrymen have come to believe that the

Government is always with them, working to improve their lives and to

enhance their Ease of Living. Based on this wealth of people's trust, a fresh

mandate was sought.

People of the country have long waited for basic ameni�es of life. But now

condi�ons are changing. My Government wants to make people conscious,

capable, well-provided and unfe�ered to such an extent that that they do

not feel the 'Burden, Force, or Absence' of the Government in their daily

life. Empowering every person in the country is the main goal of my

Government. My Government is commi�ed to that idea of na�on-building,

the founda�on for which was laid in 2014. While fulfilling the basic needs of

the countrymen, now the Government is moving forward towards realising

their aspira�ons of building a Strong, Safe, Prosperous and All-inclusive

India. This journey is inspired by the basic spirit of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas

aur Sabka Vishwas.

This New India's vision is mo�vated by the noble thoughts of Shri Narayana

Guru, a great spiritual figure, social reformer and poet from Kerala :

� � “Jaa�-Bhedam Mat-Dwesham AdumIlladey Sarvrum

Sodar-tvain Vaadunn Matrukasthan Maanit”

That is, an ideal place is one where people live like brothers free from the thdiscrimina�on of caste and religion. Three weeks ago, on 30 May,

immediately a�er swearing-in the Government has started working

towards building a New India.

A New India where equal opportuni�es to progress are available to every

person; where life of every person becomes be�er and their self-esteem is

enhanced; where brotherhood and harmony bind the people with each

other; where the founda�on built on our ideals and values becomes

stronger; and where the benefits of development reach every region and

the last person standing in the queue.

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

34

This New India, will move forward towards

that ideal state envisioned by Gurudev

Rabindranath Tagore where the mind of

the people is without fear and the head is

held high with self-esteem. In Gurudev's

words: “Chi�o Jetha Bhay-Shunno, Uchcho

Jetha Shir.”

�It is a ma�er of pride for every Indian that

when our country completes 75 years of

independence in 2022, we would have

achieved many na�onal goals for building a

New India. To pave the way for the golden

future of New India, my Government has

resolved that on this path towards a New

India, the rural India will be strong and

urban India will also be empowered; the

entrepreneurial India will a�ain new

heights and the dreams of young India will

also be fulfilled; all systems will be

transparent and the pres�ge of honest

countrymen wil l increase further; st infrastructure for the 21 century will be

built and all resources for crea�on of a

powerful India will be mobilised.

In the light of these resolu�ons, in a short period of 21 days, my

Government has taken many decisions aimed at the welfare of farmers,

soldiers, students, entrepreneurs, women and other sec�ons of society and

has also started implemen�ng them. Ini�a�ves have also been taken to

enact several new laws. A decision has been taken to increase the income

support to farmers who are our annadaata, by extending the coverage

under Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi, to every farmer in the country.

To enable the farmer brothers and sisters who work day and night in their

fields to lead a respectable life a�er a�aining the age of 60 years, a pension

scheme for them has also been approved. Livestock is invaluable for

farmers. They have to spend a lot of money for treatment of ca�le-related

diseases. To reduce this expenditure, my Government has also decided to

start a special scheme with an alloca�on of Rs 13,000-crore. For the first

�me, a Government has taken note of the economic security of small

shopkeepers. In the first mee�ng of the Cabinet, a separate pension

Scheme has been approved for small shopkeepers and retail traders. About

3-crore small shopkeepers in the country will benefit from this scheme.

35

CITIZENS' GOVERNMENT

“

“ A New India: where

equal opportuni�es to

progress are available to

every person; where life of

every person becomes

be�er and their self-esteem

is enhanced; where

brotherhood and harmony

bind the people with each

other; where the

founda�on built on our

ideals and values becomes

stronger; and where the

benefits of development

reach every region and the

last person standing in the

queue

We are all indebted to the soldiers who dedicate themselves to protect the

countrymen by sacrificing every joy, every pleasure and every fes�ve

occasion. It is our duty to secure the future of children of those who guard

the border, and ensure peace and security for everyone. Inspired by this

sen�ment, the amount of scholarship under the Na�onal Defence Fund

has been increased for the children of our brave soldiers. For the first �me,

sons and daughters of the State police personnel have also been included

in this scholarship.

stOne of the biggest challenges of the 21 century is the growing water crisis.

Over �me, tradi�onal and effec�ve prac�ces of water conserva�on in our

country are disappearing. Houses have come up over ponds and lakes and the

vanishing water sources have accentuated the water crisis for the poor. In

view of the growing impact of Climate Change and Global Warming, the water

crisis is likely to aggravate further. Today, the need of the hour is that the way

the country has shown seriousness about Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan, the same

seriousness be shown towards Water Conserva�on and Management.

We must conserve water for our children and future genera�ons. The

crea�on of the Ministry of Jalshak� is a decisive step in this direc�on, which

will have far-reaching benefits. Through this Ministry, the systems related to

water conserva�on and management will be made more effec�ve.

My Government is fully conscious of the crisis in the drought-hit areas and

stands by every affected ci�zen. With the support of State Governments

and Sarpanches at the village level, it is being ensured that farmers are

assisted and the scarcity of drinking water is tackled.

Strengthening the system and spirit of Co-opera�ve Federalism, my

Government is taking the States along to achieve the na�onal goals. Last

week, important developmental issues were discussed with the Chief

Ministers and a decision was taken to cons�tute a Commi�ee of Chief

Ministers to look into Structural Reforms in the field of agriculture.

Only on the founda�on of a strong rural economy, is it possible to build a

strong na�onal economy. Our farmers are the pillars of rural economy. All

possible efforts are being made by the Central Government to provide

adequate assistance to the States for agricultural development.

Large scale investments have been made to strengthen rural India. In order

to enhance agriculture produc�vity, an investment of Rs. 25-lakh-crore will

be made in the coming years.

To double the income of farmers by 2022, several steps have been taken in

the last 5 years. Be it the decision to increase the MSP or approval for 100

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

36

per cent FDI in food processing; be it comple�on of the irriga�on projects

pending for decades or extension of the Crop Insurance Scheme; be it the

Soil Health Card or 100% neem coa�ng of urea; my Government has taken

many decisions, apprecia�ng such numerous small and big needs of the

farmers. The Government has made the agriculture policy both produc�on-

centric as well as income-centric.

An important link in these efforts is Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi.

Through this, an amount of more than Rs. 12,000 crore has been disbursed

to the farmers in just three months. An es�mated expenditure of Rs. 90,000

crore is likely to be incurred annually on this scheme since every farmer has

now been brought in its ambit.

With the provision of storage for farm produce, the economic security of

the farmers is strengthened. Now the storage facility will be provided to the

farmers near their village through the Grameen Bhandaran Yojana.

The benefit of coopera�ves in the agriculture sector is being availed by the

farmers in the dairy business. In other areas of agriculture also, the target is

to create 10,000 new Farmer Producer Organisa�ons to benefit the farmers.

Today, India is second in the world in fish produc�on. Our country has the

poten�al to a�ain the first place. There is immense poten�al for increasing

the income of farmers through marine fish industry and inland fisheries.

That is why the Government is commi�ed to Neeli Kran� (Blue Revolu�on).

A separate Department has been cons�tuted for integrated development

of fisheries. Similarly, a special fund has been created to develop

infrastructure related to fishing industry.

We can achieve our cons�tu�onal objec�ves only by libera�ng the poor

families of the country from poverty. During the last five years, the schemes

implemented in the country for the welfare of farmers, labourers, divyangjan,

tribals and women have achieved wide spread success. Only by empowering

the poor can they be rescued from the vicious cycle of poverty. That is why the

Government has adopted an approach to empower the poor, deprived and

weaker sec�ons through provision of housing, healthcare, essen�al ameni�es

of life, financial inclusion, educa�on, skill and self-employment. This is in

harmony with Deen Dayal Upadhyaya's concept of Antyodaya.

Comprehensive work is underway for the development of 112 Aspira�onal

Districts in the country. One lakh fi�een thousand most backward villages

of the country are in these districts. With the development of educa�on

and healthcare facili�es and infrastructure in these villages, there will be a

posi�ve impact on the lives of crores of poor families.

CITIZENS' GOVERNMENT

37

A�er the success of the world's largest financial inclusion campaign,

through the Jan Dhan Yojana, my Government is also working to bring the

banking services to the doorsteps of the people. In order to ensure that

banking services are readily available in every village of the country and in

the inaccessible areas of North East, work is being done at a fast pace. About

1.5-lakh post offices in the country are being prepared to provide banking

services through the India Post Payment Bank. Our goal is to u�lise the

postman as a mobile bank to bring banking services to every doorstep.

Cost of medical treatment pushes the poor families into financial crisis. In

order to protect them from this crisis, world's biggest healthcare scheme

Ayushman Bharat Yojana has been implemented, providing Health-

Protec�on-Cover to 50 crore poor people. Under this, so far about 26 lakh

poor pa�ents have availed treatment in hospitals. In order to provide

medicines at affordable rates, 5,300 Jan Aushadhi Kendras have also been

opened. It is our endeavour to provide medicines at affordable rates to

people residing in far-flung areas through these Jan Aushadhi Kendras.

The objec�ve is to set up about 1.5 lakh Health and Wellness Centres in all

rural areas by 2022. So far, about 18,000 such Centres have already been

opera�onalised.

Our countrymen can learn a lot from tribal communi�es. Our tribal brothers

and sisters live in harmony with the environment and nature and maintain a

beau�ful balance between development and tradi�on. In New India, every

effort will be made to create an inclusive and sensi�ve system in the interest

of tribal communi�es. Many schemes have been implemented for all-round

development of tribal areas. Work is in progress to provide Learning to

Earning facili�es to the youth residing in the forest areas. In tribal

dominated areas, Eklavya Model Residen�al Schools are being set up for

children. The thrust is on value addi�on and marke�ng of forest produce

through Van Dhan Kendras.

Women Empowerment is one of the top priori�es of my Government.

Empowerment of women and their effec�ve involvement in society and

economy is the touchstone of a developed society. The Government's

thinking promotes not only women's development but also women-led

development. According the highest priority to women's security, several

effec�ve steps have been ini�ated with the coopera�on of the States.

Penal�es for crimes against women have been made harsher and the new

penal provisions are being strictly enforced. The Be� Bachao Be� Padhao

campaign has brought down female foe�cide and improved the sex ra�o in

many districts of the country.

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

38

Rural women are the biggest beneficiaries of freedom from smoke through

Ujjwala Yojana, vaccina�on through Mission Indradhanush and free

electricity connec�ons under Saubhagya Yojana. Women are also being

given priority in the registra�on of houses built under Pradhan Mantri Awas

Yojana in the rural areas. Under this scheme, nearly 2 crore new houses will

be built in the villages during the next three years.

Facili�es for the women workers in the un-organised sector are also being

augmented. Self-employment opportuni�es are being made available to

rural women through Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Rashtriya Aajivika Mission.

Under the Rashtriya Aajivika Mission, loans amoun�ng to more than Rs 2

lakh-crore have been disbursed so far to 3 crore women in rural areas.

My Government is commi�ed to make women equal stakeholders in the

country's development and prosperity. Efforts will be made in collabora�on

with industry and corporate sector to provide be�er employment

opportuni�es to women. In addi�on, in Government procurement, priority

will be given to those enterprises where women's par�cipa�on in the

workforce is more than the prescribed limit.

To secure equal rights for every sister and daughter in the country,

eradica�on of social evils like Triple Talaq and Nikah-Halala is impera�ve. I

would urge all the members to cooperate in these efforts to make the lives

of our sisters and daughters be�er and dignified.

Our young genera�on must have a meaningful par�cipa�on in the building

of New India. In the last five years, a�empts have been made for

developing the skills of the youth, providing them financial support for

start-ups and self-employment, and making available adequate number of

seats for higher educa�on. The amount of scholarship has also been

increased by 25 per cent.

The Government has made provision of 10 per cent reserva�on for youth

from economically weaker sec�on of the general category. This will enable

them to get more opportuni�es in employment and educa�on. To enable

the youth of all strata of society to fulfil their dreams, �mely provision of

financial resources is being emphasised. The impact of the Pradhan Mantri

Mudra Yojna has been felt on a big scale. Under this scheme, about 19-crore

loans have been disbursed for self-employment. An effort will now be made

to cover 30-crore people by expanding this scheme. A facility for

entrepreneurs to avail loan up to Rs. 50-lakh without any guarantee will also

be introduced. Apart from this, new employment opportuni�es will be

generated through appropriate policies in sectors which have the poten�al

to accelerate the economy.

CITIZENS' GOVERNMENT

39

Today India has joined the league of countries with most number of start-

ups in the world. To improve the start-up ecosystem, the Government is

simplifying the rules. This campaign will be further expedited. Our goal is to

establish 50,000 start-ups in the country by 2024.

Research is being encouraged in higher educa�onal ins�tu�ons. To further

strengthen this effort, it is proposed to establish a Na�onal Research

Founda�on. This proposed founda�on will work as a bridge between

different Departments of the Central Government, science laboratories,

higher educa�onal ins�tu�ons and industrial ins�tu�ons.

To enable various higher educa�onal ins�tu�ons of India to find a place in

the top 500 educa�onal ins�tu�ons of the world, they are being

encouraged through grant of autonomy and financial assistance.

My Government is striving to increase the number of seats in the country's

Higher Educa�on System by one-and-a-half �mes by 2024. With this

ini�a�ve, 2-crore addi�onal seats would be available for the youth in higher

educa�onal ins�tu�ons.

It is our responsibility to provide appropriate opportuni�es, environment

and quality educa�on to enhance the talent of children. In this regard, the

Pradhan Mantri Innova�ve Learning Programme will be started.

In order to a�ract children early enough, at the school level, towards

technology, suitable infrastructure is being created. Through the Atal

Innova�on Mission, the work of establishing Atal Tinkering Labs in about

9,000 schools across the country is progressing rapidly. Similarly, Atal

Incuba�on Centres are being set up in 102 universi�es and other ins�tu�ons.

Impressive performance in sports compe��ons at the world level enhances

the pride of the country as well as increases the interest of children and

youth in sports. It also strengthens the culture of according primacy to health

in life. To make India a global sports powerhouse, it is important that talented

players living in far-flung areas of the country are iden�fied and their

selec�on process is made transparent. To iden�fy the players at the state and

district level, it has been decided to widen the Khelo India Programme.

Under this, 2,500 talented players have been selected, and are being trained.

Now this facility will be provided to 2,500 new players every year.

The sports infrastructure in the country will be modernised as well as

expanded. A new system is being evolved to make available modern

infrastructure and facili�es to the players. It is our endeavour that our

players win high accolades in the sports world and enhance the pres�ge of

our country.

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

40

Economic development plays the most vital role in improving the lives of

our countrymen. Today India is among the fastest growing economies in the

world. Infla�on is low, fiscal deficit is under control, foreign exchange

reserves are growing and the impact of Make In India is clearly visible.

thIndia is now on the way to become the world's 5 largest economy in terms

of GDP. To maintain the high growth rate, reform process will con�nue. It is

our objec�ve to make India a 5-trillion dollar economy by 2024.

Work is underway in full earnest to transform India into a Global

Manufacturing Hub. Keeping in view Industry 4.0, a New Industrial Policy will

be announced shortly. In the global ranking conducted on Ease of Doing

Business, India has leapfrogged 65 posi�ons during the past 5 years, from a

ranking of 142 in 2014 to 77. Now our goal is to be among the top 50 countries

of the world. In order to achieve this, process of simplifica�on of rules will be

further expedited in collabora�on with the States. In this sequence,

necessary amendments are also being brought in the Companies Law.

Taxa�on regime plays an important role in accelera�ng economic

development. Along with con�nuous reform, simplifica�on of taxa�on

system is also being emphasised. Exemp�on to persons earning up to Rs. 5-

lakh from payment of income tax is an important step in this direc�on.

Similarly, indirect tax system is also being made simple and effec�ve. With

the implementa�on of GST, the concept of 'One country, One tax, One

market' has become a reality. Efforts to further simplify the GST will con�nue.

Keeping in view the interests of small traders, my Government has launched

a New Pension Scheme for them. The Na�onal Traders Welfare Board will

be cons�tuted shortly, and the Na�onal Retail Trade Policy will be

formulated to promote retail business. Accident insurance of up to Rs. 10-

lakh will also be provided to all traders registered under GST.

MSME sector provides a strong founda�on to the country's economy, and

plays a cri�cal role in employment genera�on. Several steps have been

taken to ensure smooth cash flow to enterprises run by small entrepreneurs.

In order to ensure that entrepreneurs associated with MSME sector do not

face any problem in accessing credit, the credit guarantee coverage is being

enhanced to Rs. 1-lakh-crore.

Good governance reduces corrup�on, enhances self-respect of the ci�zens

and enables them to op�mally u�lise their talents and capabili�es.

My Government will make the Zero Tolerance Policy against corrup�on

more comprehensive and effec�ve. The mission to eliminate corrup�on

from public life and Government services will be implemented with greater

CITIZENS' GOVERNMENT

41

zeal. Towards this objec�ve, Minimum Government - Maximum

Governance will be further emphasised. In addi�on, use of technology will

be maximised to reduce Human Interface. Appointment of Lokpal will also

promote transparency.

The campaign against black money will be taken forward at a faster pace.

During the last two years, 4-lakh 25-thousand company directors have been

disqualified and the registra�on of 3-lakh-50 thousand suspicious

companies has been revoked.

The Fugi�ve and Economic Offenders Act, has proved effec�ve in

controlling fugi�ve economic offenders. Now we are receiving informa�on

in this regard from 146 countries, including Switzerland. Of these, we have

concluded agreements with 80 countries for automa�c exchange of

informa�on. We are now receiving informa�on about all those who have

stashed black money abroad.

The impact of Real Estate Regula�on Act or RERA is clearly visible in curbing

black money transac�ons in real estate sector and protec�ng the interests

of the customers; providing huge relief to the middle class families.

The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code is among the biggest and most

impac�ul economic reforms undertaken in the country. With the coming

into force of this Code, banks and other financial ins�tu�ons have been able

to se�le directly or indirectly an amount of more than Rs. 3-lakh 50-

thousand-crore. This Code has also curbed the tendency of willfully

defaul�ng on loans taken from banks and other financial ins�tu�ons.

Under Direct Benefit Transfer, funds from more than 400 schemes are being

directly credited into the accounts of beneficiaries. During the last five

years, Rs. 7-lakh 30-thousand-crore have been transferred through DBT. So

far, not only has DBT prevented Rs. 1-lakh 41-thousand-crore from falling

into wrong hands, but it has also enabled dele�on of names of about 8 crore

ineligible beneficiaries. DBT will be further expanded in the coming days. I

would urge the State Governments to use DBT in more and more schemes.

Infrastructure will play an important role in ushering in a prosperous India.

My Government's con�nuous endeavour has been to build infrastructure in

an eco-friendly manner. Along with concrete, greenery has been made an

integral part of the highway and expressway projects. For supply of

electricity, op�mal u�lisa�on of solar energy is being stressed. Household

and industrial wastes are also being used in road construc�on.

stIn the 21 century economy, the pace and spread of urbanisa�on will

con�nue to increase. Development of urban infrastructure in ci�es and

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

42

suburbs will pave the way for economic progress and enhance employment

opportuni�es. My Government is �relessly working for a modern India, by

providing world-class infrastructure and public ameni�es in villages as well

as ci�es. Special emphasis is being accorded to improving connec�vity in

the North-East, hilly and tribal areas. In addi�on to increasing the ease of

living of ci�zens in the North-East; tourism, agriculture and other allied

sectors will also benefit from be�er connec�vity. Effec�ve steps are being

taken to expand organic farming in the North-East.

Under the Bharatmala Project, construc�on or upgrada�on of about 35,000

kilometers of Na�onal Highways is to be undertaken by 2022. In addi�on,

under the Sagarmala Project, a network of good quality roads is being

constructed in coastal areas and areas adjoining ports.

Along with the highways, Government is also working extensively in the

area of Railways, Airways and Inland Waterways. Under the UDAN Scheme,

air connec�vity to smaller towns is being expanded rapidly.

Urban transport infrastructure is being created to cater to present and future

requirements. While developing infrastructure, a�en�on is also being given

to addressing challenges posed by pollu�on. My Government is developing a

transport system, which is not only fast and safe, but is also environment

friendly. For this, special emphasis is being given to Public transport. Metro

rail network is being expanded rapidly in several ci�es. One Na�on, One Card

has been launched to realise the dream of seamless mobility. Similarly,

electric vehicles are being promoted to reduce vehicular pollu�on. The

network of electric charging sta�ons is also being expanded rapidly.

Modern ameni�es like gas-grid and I-Ways are being developed at a rapid

pace. PNG based domes�c fuel and CNG based transporta�on systems are

being developed. In modern India, we are according a special emphasis on

produc�on of bio-fuel. Prior to 2014, about 67-crore-litre of ethanol was

being blended. This year, we have set a target of about 270-crore-litre for

ethanol blending. Enhancing the use of blended ethanol will not only

benefit our farmers but also safeguard the environment. Further, it will

reduce import of petroleum products thus saving foreign exchange.

My Government is fully devoted to make the flow of Ganga uninterrupted

and pollu�on free. Recently, encouraging evidence of revival of aqua�c life

at several loca�ons along Ganga has been reported. This year, during the

Ardhakumbh in Prayagraj, the cleanliness of Ganga, and ameni�es provided

to the devotees, have made news throughout the world. My Government

has enhanced the dignity and self-esteem of every person who contributed

towards the successful organisa�on of Ardhakumbh by honouring them.

CITIZENS' GOVERNMENT

43

Under the Namami Gange scheme, my Government will further accelerate

the campaign for closure of drains releasing effluents in the river Ganga. On

the lines of river Ganga, the Government will also endeavour to clean up

other rivers such as Kaveri, Periyar, Narmada, Yamuna, Mahanadi

and Godavari.

My Government is making earnest efforts for conserva�on of forests,

wildlife and the environment. In recent years, forest and tree cover has

increased by more than one per cent. During the last five years, protected

areas in the country have also increased. In 2014, the number of protected

areas in the country was 692, which has now gone up to 868. To address the

challenges posed by air pollu�on, Na�onal Clean Air Programme has been

started in 102 ci�es.

Solar energy plays an important role in reducing the adverse effects of

Climate Change and Global Warming. Proac�ve efforts of India have

resulted in the forma�on of the Interna�onal Solar Alliance. Through this

organisa�on, India is contribu�ng significantly to the development of solar

energy in the developing countries of the world.

Space Technology plays a central role in improving the lives of the common

man, providing early-warning of impending disasters, iden�fying loca�on

of natural resources, providing signals to various means of communica�on

and ensuring na�onal security. It is the endeavour of my Government to

maximise the use of space technology for human welfare. Several facili�es

such as roads, houses for poor, farming or equipment for fishermen have all

been linked to space technology.

Space technology has helped us in further strengthening our security at

land, air and water. Our exper�se in accurate weather forecast has

improved. This was evidenced during the recent Cyclone Phani that struck

the eastern coast of the country. Due to accurate informa�on and �mely

prepara�on, large scale destruc�on to life and property was averted.

India is marching forward to assume a leadership role in unraveling and

comprehending the mysteries of space. Our scien�sts are involved in the

prepara�ons for the launch of Chandrayaan-2, which will be India's first

spacecra� to reach the Moon. We are also making rapid progress towards

achieving the goal of sending the first Indian in India's own Gaganyaan

by 2022.

During the Lok Sabha elec�ons, the country a�ained another milestone,

which however, did not receive as much a�en�on as it should have. With

the successful tes�ng of Mission Shak� a new dimension has been added to

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

44

India's capability in space technology and security-preparedness. For this,

today I once again congratulate our scien�sts and engineers.

The role of technology in the field of security is expanding con�nuously.

Keeping this in view, work is in progress to establish three joint service

agencies for space, cyber and special-forces. These collabora�ve efforts will

strengthen the security of the country.

New India is rapidly moving towards occupying its righ�ul place in the world

community. Today, India has acquired a new image and our rela�ons with

other countries have become stronger. It is a ma�er of immense pleasure

that in 2022 India will host the G-20 Summit.

The world community enthusias�cally supported India's proposal to stdeclare June 21 as Interna�onal Day of Yoga by the United Na�ons. At

present, several programmes associated with Interna�onal Day of Yoga are

being organised with great enthusiasm in various countries, of which the st most important events will be held on the 21 June.

The world community supports India's posi�on on various issues such as

climate change, economic and cyber-crime, ac�on against corrup�on and

black money and energy security. Today the whole world stands with India

on the issue of terrorism. Designa�on of Masood Azhar, responsible for

dastardly terrorist a�acks on our soil, as a global terrorist by United Na�ons,

is a major tes�mony to this fact.

My Government's “Neighborhood First” policy is an evidence of our

approach of according priority to South Asia and countries in the adjoining

region. India will play a crucial role in the progress of this region.

Accordingly, trade, connec�vity and people-to-people contact are being

encouraged in this region. The presence of Heads of States and Heads of

Governments of BIMSTEC countries, Kyrgyzstan – the current chair of

Shanghai Coopera�on Organisa�on and Mauri�us during the swearing-in

of the new Government is a reflec�on of this policy.

My Government is also conscious of protec�ng the interests of Indians

living and working abroad. Today an Indian, if caught in any crisis abroad, is

confident of receiving �mely help and relief. Several services ranging from

passports to visas have been made easy and accessible.

Due to the efforts of my Government, India's philosophy, culture and

achievements have got a dis�nct recogni�on at the global stage. This year, ththe 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, which is being celebrated

world over, will provide a fillip to India's thought leadership. Similarly,

CITIZENS' GOVERNMENT

45

thprogrammes related to the 550 birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji, will

help spread the light of India's spiritual wisdom throughout the world.

New India will be sensi�ve and also economically prosperous. But for this to

happen, na�on's security is of utmost importance. My Government accords

top most priority to na�onal security. Therefore, effec�ve steps are being

taken to tackle Terrorism and Naxalism.

India has amply demonstrated both her intent and capabili�es, first

through surgical strikes and then through air strikes a�er the Pulwama

a�ack at terrorist hideouts across the border. In future too, all possible

steps will be taken to ensure our security.

Illegal infiltrators pose a major threat to our internal security. This is leading

to social imbalance in many parts of the country, as well as pu�ng a huge

pressure on limited livelihood opportuni�es. My Government has decided

to implement the process of Na�onal Register of Ci�zens on priority basis in

areas affected by infiltra�on. Security along the border will be further

strengthened to prevent infiltra�on.

While on the one hand, Government is working to iden�fy the infiltrators, on

the other, it is also fully commi�ed to protec�ng the vic�ms of persecu�on

due to their faith. In this regard, efforts will be made to amend the

Ci�zenship Act while protec�ng the linguis�c, cultural and social iden��es.

My Government is making efforts with complete dedica�on to provide a

safe and peaceful environment to the residents of Jammu and Kashmir. The

recently concluded peaceful elec�ons to local bodies and to Lok Sabha have

bolstered our efforts. My Government is commi�ed to take all necessary

steps for the development of Jammu and Kashmir.

My Government is resolutely working to eradicate the menace of Naxalism

from the country. Considerable success has been achieved in this direc�on

during the last 5 years. The area affected by Naxalism is reducing

con�nuously. In the coming years, development projects will be expedited in

these areas, which will benefit our tribal brothers and sisters residing there.

My Government is rapidly taking forward the work of modernisa�on of the

army and the armed forces. India is going to receive the delivery of first

Rafale fighter aircra� and Apache helicopters in the near future.

Special emphasis is being accorded by the Government to manufacture of

modern armaments under Make in India. The policy of indigenously

manufacturing weapons such as modern rifles and cannons, tanks and

combat aircra�s is being carried forward successfully. Defence Corridors

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

46

coming up in U�ar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu will further strengthen this

mission. While fulfilling our security requirements, export of defence

equipment is also being encouraged.

Respect towards soldiers and martyrs, enhances self-respect and

enthusiasm among the forces, and also strengthens our military

capabili�es. Hence, all possible efforts are being made to take care of our

soldiers and their families. Through One Rank One Pension, increased

pensionary benefits to ex-service men and expansion of health facili�es,

efforts are being made to improve their living standards.

The Na�onal War Memorial near India Gate in Delhi, built by my

Government, seven decades a�er India's independence, is a tribute to the

martyrs by a grateful na�on. Similarly my Government has set up the

Na�onal Police Memorial in memory of police personnel who were

martyred while safeguarding the security of the country.

Inspira�on from history guides us towards the future path of na�on

building. It is our duty to preserve the memory of our na�on-builders and

gratefully remember them. There have been many such efforts during the

last five years. Dandi Museum has been built to honour Pujya Bapu and the

historic Dandi March. The Statue of Unity, the tallest statue in the world, has

been built as a mark of our gra�tude to the Iron Man Sardar Patel. Kran�

Mandir has been set up at the Red Fort in Delhi, as a tribute to Netaji

Subhash Chandra Bose and other freedom fighters of Azad Hind Fauj. 26

Alipur Road in Delhi, the site of Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar's

Mahaparinirvana has been developed as a Na�onal Memorial. A museum is

also being built in Delhi as a mark of respect to the contribu�ons of all

former Prime Ministers of the country.

My Government, inspired by Sardar Patel, is commi�ed to further

strengthen the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. For this, it is essen�al

to accord importance to Na�onal Ambi�ons and Regional Aspira�ons. All

forms of dialogue and coopera�on will be encouraged to achieve this.

Guided by the principle of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas aur Sabka Vishwas, it is

the endeavour of my Government to ensure that no ci�zen is le� behind in

India's journey of development.

India had to pass through a long period of subjuga�on. But throughout this

period, Indians kept figh�ng for independence in different parts of the

country. The longing for freedom and willingness to make sacrifices to

achieve freedom had never waned. This desire for independence

culminated into the Quit India Movement in 1942, when the en�re na�on

was determined to achieve independence and even to sacrifice their lives in

CITIZENS' GOVERNMENT

47

this cause. Contribu�ng to the freedom struggle was the only thought

behind all the ac�ons of our countrymen. We achieved our independence

in 1947 on the strength of this collec�ve spirit.

Today, all of us are again at a juncture of crea�ng history. We are striving to

launch a new movement for ushering in a new era. Our resolve today will

determine the shape of the India of 2047 when we celebrate the centenary

of our independence.

Today, our country is enriched with the experiences of a 72-year journey

since independence. The na�on is moving ahead only by learning from these

experiences. All of us have to move ahead with the resolve to realise the idea thof New India by the year 2022 when we celebrate the 75 anniversary of

thIndia's independence. In the New India in the 75 year of its independence:

! Farmers' income will be doubled;

! Every poor will have a pucca roof over his head;

! Every poor will have access to clean fuel;

! Every poor will have electricity connec�on;

! No poor will be compelled to defecate in the open;

! Every poor will have access to medical facili�es;

! Every village in the country will be connected by roads;

! River Ganga will flow uninterrupted, and pollu�on free;

! In collabora�on with States, India will be close to becoming a $ 5 trillion

economy;

! We will be progressing towards joining world's three largest economies;

! An Indian will unfurl the tri-colour in space, en�rely on the strength of

indigenous resources; and

! We will provide leadership to global development with a new zeal and

confidence.

If the gap between the public and the Government is reduced and public

partnership is ensured, our countrymen can transform Government

schemes and programmes into mass movements. This is the way forward to

achieve transforma�ve na�onal goals. Adop�ng this approach, programmes

like the Be� Bachao, Be� Padhao, and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan evolved into

mass movements. On the strength of people's par�cipa�on, we will also

achieve the objec�ve of a New India.

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

48

It is the belief of my Government that poli�cal

par�es, States and 130-crore countrymen are all

commi�ed to India's integrated and accelerated

development. Our vibrant democracy has also

matured adequately. During the last few

decades, due to frequent elec�ons being held in

some part of the country or the other, the pace

and con�nuity of development programmes

have been impacted. Our countrymen have

demonstrated their wisdom by delivering a

clear verdict both at State and Na�onal issues.

One Na�on – Simultaneous Elec�ons is the

need of the hour, which would facilitate

accelerated development, thereby benefi�ng

our countrymen. With such a system in place, all

poli�cal par�es, according to their respec�ve

ideologies, will be able to be�er u�lise their

energy towards development and public

welfare. Therefore, I urge all Members of

Parliament to seriously ponder over this

development oriented proposal of One Na�on - Simultaneous Elec�ons.

This year also marks 70 years of adop�on of the Indian Cons�tu�on. As a

Member of Parliament, all of you have undertaken the oath or affirma�on

to discharge your du�es with true faith and allegiance to the Cons�tu�on

of India. The Cons�tu�on is paramount to all of us. The chief architect of

our Cons�tu�on, Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar had said that “we

must hold fast to cons�tu�onal methods of achieving our social and

economic objec�ves”.

Our Cons�tu�on provides guidance to ensure social, economic and poli�cal

jus�ce, secure liberty and equality for all ci�zens; and promote fraternity

among all, assuring the dignity of the individual.

I believe that you all Members of the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha, as

parliamentarians, will make invaluable contribu�ons in achieving the ideals

of the Cons�tu�on while discharging your du�es. In this way, you will

contribute effec�vely in ushering in a New India.

All of us will have to accord priority to our du�es as public representa�ves

and as ci�zens of the country. Only then will we be able to inspire

countrymen to discharge their du�es as ci�zens.

CITIZENS' GOVERNMENT

49

““ If the gap

between the public and

the Government is

reduced and public

partnership is ensured,

our countrymen can

transform Government

schemes and

programmes into mass

movements. This is the

way forward to achieve

transforma�ve na�onal

goals

My advice to all MPs is that you should always remember the fundamental

mantra of Gandhiji. He had said that every decision of ours should be guided

by its impact on the poorest and the weakest person in the society. You must

also remember the voter who se�ng aside all his work and overcoming his

difficul�es went to the polling sta�on to cast his vote and discharge his

responsibili�es towards the na�on. Your priority should be to fulfil his

aspira�ons.

I urge you all to dedicate yourselves in the task of building a New India and

to discharge your du�es with utmost sincerity over the next five years. I

once again wish the very best to all of you.

Address at the joint si�ng of both houses of the Parliament on June 20, 2019

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

50

Address to the Joint Sitting of two Houses of Parliament

CITIZENS' GOVERNMENT

51

Window to

Sectio

n II

Worldthe

India's development stride reflects the confidence of the country... For centuries, we have believed in the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and regarded the whole world as our family

“ “

Iam happy to be here for the inaugura�on of the Interna�onal Buddhist

Conclave 2018. This is a gathering of eminent personali�es associated

with Buddhist thought and scholarship, with Buddhist heritage and

monuments, and with the tourism industry that does so much to facilitate

the Buddhist travel and pilgrimage circuit. In par�cular, I would like to

welcome the delegates from approximately 30 countries who have come to

India for this Conclave, and who will be part of this event and other events in

Maharashtra, Bihar and U�ar Pradesh over the next three days.

I would also like to acknowledge the par�cipa�on of Japan as a partner

country in this Conclave. India and Japan have much in common, but there

are few links we treasure as much as our shared Buddhist heritage. Through

thousands of years of human existence, India has been a storehouse of

history and culture, of faith and philosophy. Buddhism has been among

India's greatest spiritual tradi�ons. Many great loca�ons associated with

the life and teachings of Lord Buddha are found in India. These include

Kapilvastu (Piprahwa), where he spent his childhood; Bodhgaya, where he

a�ained Enlightenment; Sarnath, where he delivered his first sermon; and

Kushinagar, where he embraced Mahaparinirvana.

Even a�er Lord Buddha's passing, monasteries, pilgrimage sites, universi�es

and places of learning and worship that carried forward his work came up

across India. Today Buddhist heritage sites are to be found in virtually every

state of India. Together these are known to pilgrims, religious tourists and

fascinated travellers as the Buddhist Circuit.

The Buddhist Circuit in India is an important and revered set of des�na�ons

for the approximately 500 million-strong community of Buddhists that lives

across Asia and other parts of the world. It is to facilitate such a travel and

pilgrimage experience that this Conclave has been organised and that the

website and film dedicated to the Buddhist Circuit have been

formally launched.

The prac�ce of cultural and religious travel and tourism is not new to India. It

goes back thousands of years and in fact visits from Buddhist pilgrims,

monks and scholars from other countries and civilisa�ons have been a

proud feature of our history. This has been mutually enriching and in diverse

ways. The voyage of Buddhism from India to Asia and the transcon�nental

links that were created carried more than just spiritualism. They carried a

rich cargo of knowledge and learning, arts and cra�s and medita�on

CELEBRATING THE VOYAGE OF BUDDHISM

55

techniques and even mar�al arts. Eventually, the many roads that the monks

and nuns - those men and women of faith - carved out became among the

earliest trade routes. In that sense, Buddhism was the basis for an early form

of globalisa�on – and of inter-connectedness in our con�nent.

It is these principles and values that must con�nue to guide us. I would

emphasise that such thinking shapes the Indian tourism industry's

approach to cultural and religious tourism. And it shapes the government of

India's promo�on of Buddhist-themed tourism.

Do consider some measures taken in this

regard. The introduc�on and expansion of

the e-visa scheme, which is an ini�a�ve of

this government, facilitates among others,

those tourists coming to experience India's

Buddhist legacy. The government is also

making earnest efforts to develop

Buddhist heritage sites as even more

welcoming des�na�ons. I understand the

Ministry of Tourism has iden�fied the

Buddhist Circuit as one of the thema�c

circuits for development under its

Swadesh Darshan Scheme. Five projects,

with a combined outlay of more than 350

crore rupees, have been sanc�oned for the

states of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat,

Madhya Pradesh and U�ar Pradesh.

It goes without saying that the government

cannot do everything on its own. Tourism is

a mul�-stakeholder enterprise. The private

sector and civil society have substan�al

roles. And in terms of providing a safe and

secure visitor experience, state and

municipal administra�ons play a cri�cal

part. Of course, the business poten�al of tourism is immense. Across our

world, this industry is a big job creator, especially for local households and

local communi�es. In its essence, tourism, like Buddhism, is about people and

empowering them to realise their poten�al.

In this context I am happy to note that the Ministry of Tourism, Government

of India, is organising an Investors' Summit as part of the Conclave. The

objec�ve is to finalise business and investment plans for developing world-

““ The voyage of

Buddhism from India to Asia

and the transcon�nental links

that were created carried more

than just spiritualism. They

carried a rich cargo of

knowledge and learning, arts

and cra�s and medita�on

techniques and even mar�al

arts. Eventually, the many

roads that the monks and nuns

- those men and women of

faith - carved out became

among the earliest trade

routes. In that sense,

Buddhism was the basis for an

early form of globalisa�on –

and of inter-connectedness in

our con�nent

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

56

class infrastructure in the iden�fied Buddhist heritage sites. I am confident

that the delegates to the Investors' Summit, both from India and other

countries, will give concrete shape to their proposals.

I would also like to acknowledge support from interna�onal agencies that

have contributed to the development of tourist infrastructure in the

Buddhist Circuit. The collabora�on between the Japan Interna�onal

Coopera�on Agency and the government of India for the Ajanta-Ellora

Conserva�on and Tourism Development Project is worth men�oning. This

will conserve one of our most remarkable cultural sites for future

genera�ons as well as enhance the tourist experience for those visi�ng the

Ajanta and Ellora caves.

With loan assistance from the Japan Interna�onal Coopera�on Agency, the

first phase of development of the Buddhist Circuit in U�ar Pradesh and

Bihar too has been completed. The Union Ministry of Tourism and the state

governments of Bihar and U�ar Pradesh are now coopera�ng with the

Interna�onal Finance Corpora�on, which is a part of the World Bank Group,

on an integrated Buddhist Circuit Tourism Development Project. This will

upgrade the quality of services for visitors.

In conclusion, I must emphasise that while we should take advantage of our

strengths, we also need to overcome issues that are limi�ng us from scaling

up. There are issues related to limited market research; limited interpreta�on;

and inadequate exhibi�ng and presenta�on of the Buddhist Circuit's history

and narra�ve. While air services have expanded in the past few years, last-

mile connec�vity, whether by way of road and rail, s�ll has gaps that need to

be filled. Pollu�on and environmental changes are other pressing concerns.

Despite these niggling problems, the poten�al is so large that it can only

mo�vate us to move ahead with greater energy and vigour. I am confident

that the combined exper�se of the delegates at this Conclave, drawing

inspira�on from the wisdom and the problem-solving techniques of Lord

Buddha, will lead our heritage tourism efforts to a more enlightened path.

And with that, I wish the Conclave and its sessions and sub-events all success.

thAddress at the inaugura�on of the 6 Interna�onal Buddhist Conclave in New Delhi on

August 23, 2018

CELEBRATING THE VOYAGE OF BUDDHISM

57

am pleased to be here in Cyprus and to meet all of you. I thank you for Iwelcoming me with such warmth and love. Your presence here shows

that despite being outside India, all of you con�nue to maintain the

tradi�on of . It is said that wherever we go in the world, A�thi Devo Bhava

we carry love and harmony with us.

I have always met the Indian community in every country that I have visited.

However, mee�ng all of you today generates special emo�ons in me. These

emo�ons are usually felt when one meets loved ones, family, and friends. I

am feeling a similar kind of exuberance at this moment.

As a part of my delega�on, the Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers'

Welfare and Panchaya� Raj, Shri Purusho�am Rupala is accompanying me.

He belongs to Gujarat. Two honourable Member of Parliament are also

travelling with me, one is Mr Sunil Kumar Singh from Jharkhand, and the

other is Mr Ram Shakal from U�ar Pradesh.

We have shared a close rela�onship with this beau�ful country. India and

Cyprus had extended mutual support during their respec�ve Independence

struggles and a�er a�aining freedom, have helped each other develop as

na�ons. The civilisa�on of Cyprus is ancient like India's. Its understanding

about diversity and mul�culturalism is quite deep and the prevalent ethics

and morals are also like ours. Perhaps this is the reason why India and

Cyprus consider each other friends. This country has immense respect for

Mahatma Gandhi and other Indian leaders. Similarly, we immensely

respect the first President of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios. We have named

a street in Delhi a�er him.

Cyprus has given a graceful place to the father of our na�on and his statue is

erected next to the House of Representa�ves. Tomorrow, I will pay my

tributes there. In 1970, Mahatma Gandhi's birth centenary was celebrated

here and a commemora�on postage stamp was issued. It is the expression

of the deep respect that Cypriots hold for Mahatma Gandhi. Exactly a nd thmonth from today, on 2 October, the world will begin celebra�ng the 150

birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. I hope that Cyprus will also

par�cipate in the celebra�ons. I appeal that all of you too help us in

spreading Gandhiji's message and thought.

A lot of people present here today know that under the U.N. Peacekeeping

Mission, the Indian Army has played an important role in maintaining peace

ASSIMILATING TO CONTRIBUTE:INDIAN DIASPORA IN CYPRUS

58

and harmony in this country. The great son of India, General K.S. Thimayya

laid down his life here, during service, in 1965. We commend the people

and the government of Cyprus for naming the road from Larnaca to Nicosia

a�er him.

It is a�er 9 years that any Indian President is visi�ng Cyprus. Smt. Pra�bha

Pa�l had come to Cyprus in 2009. Prior to that our former Prime Minister,

Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee had come to Cyprus in 2002. All of you know that

he passed away last month. His contribu�ons to our na�on building and

poli�cs as a popular leader and Prime Minister cannot be forgo�en.

Tomorrow, I will meet President Anastasiades and we will discuss the

strengthening of rela�onship between the people of Cyprus and India. I

will also have an opportunity of addressing an extraordinary session of

the House of Representa�ves of Cyprus. I have been told that there are

many Indian students in Cyprus. To strengthen the rela�onship between

the youth of our two countries, I will address the students at Cyprus

University and on this occasion, I will also unveil a statue of Gurudev

Rabindranath Tagore.

Among the people present here today, there are professionals, students,

and entrepreneurs. You all must be hailing

from different parts of India – Punjab, U�ar

Pradesh, Southern India. However, the

thread of unity running between us keeps us

united and this thread is composed of our

common cultural and spiritual heritage.

Some of you may have arrived here a long

�me ago and some may have arrived here

only a few years ago. In all this �me, India has

achieved many things. When you come to

India now, you will find it changed. I invite

you to become a part of this new India.

I am pleased that the Indian community

here is considered peaceful. All of you have

assimilated well with the local culture. You

are also contribu�ng to Cyprus's social and

economic development. The apprecia�on

that the Government of Cyprus and people

have for your contribu�ons can be easily

seen. You have made us proud with your

hard work and dedica�on.

59

““ All of you have

assimilated well with

the local culture. You

are also contribu�ng to

Cyprus's social and

economic development.

The apprecia�on that

the Government of

Cyprus and people have

for your contribu�ons

can be easily

seen

ASSIMILATING TO CONTRIBUTE: INDIAN DIASPORA IN CYPRUS

We Indians are lucky in the sense that wherever we go, we have a lot to

share with the people of those places. I am happy that you have kept your

cultural tradi�ons alive in this country. I have been told that you celebrate

with exuberance and excitement Baisakhi, Holi, Diwali, Eid, and other

Indian fes�vals.

India is now world's sixth largest economy and the fastest growing major

economy. We have achieved a growth rate of 8.2% in the last quarter. In the

last four years, by providing electricity to more than 18000 villages, we have

successfully electrified all the villages of the country. Government

programmes including Make in India, Start-Up India and Digital India are

growing rapidly. Under the Ujjwala programme, we have provided clean

fuel for cooking to more than 50 million people. One can feel a new energy

in India now. I appeal to you to search for opportuni�es in India and

contribute in your own way towards na�on building.

India's development stride reflects the confidence of the country. We have

made notable expansion in our interna�onal rela�ons. For centuries, we

have believed in the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and regarded

the whole world as our family. This is why we have rescued not just our own

people from hos�le circumstances and natural disasters but helped others,

too. In the last 4 years, we have been successful in rescuing more than

90,000 ci�zens stuck abroad under difficult circumstances. These include

ci�zens of more than 50 countries.

You must have felt in the last few years that we have massively changed the

government's way of connec�ng with the Indian Diaspora. The rela�onship

between resident and non-resident Indians has deepened emo�onally,

culturally, economically, and ins�tu�onally. We have made the O.C.I. scheme

easier so that more people can benefit from it. We have also directed our

High Commissions and Embassies that they be available 24 hours for helping

people. I have been told that this system is working efficiently.

We believe that the Indian Diaspora is our important partner in

strengthening our interna�onal reach. Each Indian is important in

spreading India's message. While it is true that the government of India has

appointed senior diplomat Dr. Raghavan as the High Commissioner but we

believe that every Indian is our cultural ambassador. We trust that you will

bring India and Cyprus even closer.

On this occasion, I would also like to invite you to Rashtrapa� Bhavan

whenever you come to India. It belongs to all Indians, to all of you. I would

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

60

61

once again like to thank you for being present here and welcoming me with

such warmth and love.

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi on the occasion of the ceremony

organised by the Indian Diaspora in Cyprus on September 2, 2018

ASSIMILATING TO CONTRIBUTE: INDIAN DIASPORA IN CYPRUS

It is a happy feeling to be among friends. In India, we consider the

Republic of Cyprus as not just a friend but one of our most steadfast

partners in the interna�onal community. That is why it is a ma�er of

pride for me to be addressing the legisla�ve forum of your na�on. This

invita�on is an honour for India and a personal privilege for me.

I was touched by the enthusias�c welcome I received when I entered this

grand building. I would like to thank the President of the House of

Representa�ves and the Members of the House for this gesture. And I

would like to thank the people and government of Cyprus, led by the

President of Cyprus, for the extraordinary warmth with which my

delega�on and I have been treated since we landed yesterday a�ernoon.

This is my first visit to Cyprus. The landscape and the sheer beauty of your

country have le� me dazzled. There is something about the waters of the

Mediterranean and the clear air here that is so calming and charming. It is

not just the warm sun that reminds me of home. It is our shared values,

symbols of which are everywhere, including in this House.

These values and symbols exist in the form of the legacy of democracy that

both our countries have adopted. They are present in the mutual respect

for each other's founding figures. In New Delhi, a major road is named in

honour of the venerable Archbishop Makarios. Shortly before coming here,

I paid homage to a bust of Mahatma Gandhi erected in the adjoining park.

Mahatma Gandhi was not only the leader of our freedom movement and

that of the en�re Indian subcon�nent. He was also an inspira�on for an�-

colonial struggles and for upholding human dignity and liberty everywhere.

In India, we remember fondly that about 50 years ago Cyprus issued two

postage stamps to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi's birth centenary.

These stamps are s�ll cherished by collectors. It is a fine coincidence that my ndcurrent visit is taking place only a few weeks before October 2 , when we

thbegin the two-year celebra�ons of the 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma

Gandhi. Figures like Gandhiji and Archbishop Makarios don't belong to any

one country. They are part of the heritage of humanity.

Rela�ons between Cyprus and India are old, deep and have mul�ple facets.

As ancient civilisa�ons, our first priority is our people. The strong connec�on

between the ci�zens of Cyprus and India is the most important source of our

bilateral energy. From people-to-people contacts, we build economic and

INDIA WITH CYPRUS AND CYPRUS WITH INDIA

62

trade links, educa�onal and intellectual connec�ons, and a frui�ul bilateral

partnership. Then of course are issues of common concern and our mutual

commitment to peace, security and sovereignty. This takes us to the

mul�lateral sphere and to global ma�ers, where inevitably we find

ourselves on the same side. In fact, there are hardly any major issues on

which Cyprus and India disagree.

India's overriding mission is its economic growth and modernisa�on, with

the fruits of development reaching all sec�ons of our people. Cyprus, as a

trusted partner and as one of the largest investors in India, is cri�cal to this

process. India is at an exci�ng juncture and offers appealing business

opportuni�es. Sta�s�cs released just before I le� New Delhi said that

India's GDP had grown at a scorching 8.2 per cent in the previous quarter.

This is part of a trend of high growth over the past few years. It has made

India the world's fastest-growing large economy.

This has happened due to determined efforts and policy ini�a�ves taken by

the government to make India one of the world's most open des�na�ons

for investment, a leading hub of technology start-ups, and an easier place to

do business. India's ranking in the World Bank's Doing Business Report 2018

showed an improvement of 30 places in one year. It was the sharpest rise for

any na�on. In the Global Innova�on Index, India has improved 24 places in st ththe past three years – from 81 in 2015 to 57 in 2018.

Tax reforms to galvanise India's widespread manufacturing and business

capaci�es and large domes�c market have also helped. The implementa�on

of the Goods and Services Tax has led to an uniform, simpler and digitally-

enabled taxa�on in all of our 29 states. It has integrated the country into one

business system. This is a historic achievement that can be compared to

bringing the European Union into a common fiscal framework. There have

been other measures too. The enactment of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy

Code has made it easier for non-performing businesses to exit. India is also

striving to create a cleaner economy. This is both a domes�c and a global

problem. In this context, the agreement signed earlier today between the

Financial Intelligence Unit of India and the Unit for Comba�ng Money

Laundering of Cyprus will be useful for both of us.

Massive outlays and a�rac�ve and viable projects are evident in the Digital

India mission – which is taking broadband connec�vity deep into rural

India; in the Smart Ci�es mission, aimed at urban revitalisa�on; and in key

infrastructure sectors such as power and energy, highways, and ports and

shipping. India is promo�ng tourism in a big manner, including by way of

simplifying visa provisions and augmen�ng tourism infrastructure

and facili�es.

INDIA WITH CYPRUS AND CYPRUS WITH INDIA

63

In all these areas, we look to Cyprus for partnership. You can come as

investors and you can come as stakeholders, you can come to buy or to sell,

you can come with your exper�se and you can come with your brands and

your skills. India is open for business – and India is open for Cyprus. Do

come, and come quickly.

Mahatma Gandhi o�en spoke of the Indian village as an organic, integrated

en�ty, where everybody, every family, was part of an interlinked chain and

contributed to each other's prosperity as well as to the prosperity of the

community. This thinking is rooted in the ancient tradi�ons of India.

Through all these years, and in all our endeavours, it has con�nued to

inspire India. When we think for India and when we act for India, we try and

think and act for the world. We are clear in our belief that the global village

is an organic, integrated en�ty, where everybody, every na�on, is part of an

interlinked chain and contributes to each other's prosperity.

I will give you two examples. First, Indian research laboratories and companies

have developed impressive capaci�es in pharmaceu�cal manufacture. Yet, we

don't look upon this as simply business. It is our contribu�on to global

healthcare, while making for a viable industry. High-quality Indian generics

and vaccines have driven down prices, reduced costs of healthcare and helped

communi�es across the world. This is a field

in which we would be happy to share our

experiences and capaci�es with Cyprus.

Earlier this year, India co-founded and

hosted the inaugural conference of

the Interna�onal Solar Alliance. The

secretariat of the ISA is located in India and

this ins�tu�on is central to India's effort to

mobilise interna�onal resources and

technologies to combat climate change.

The scope for renewable energy is

immense and will be crucial to checking

rising temperatures and rising seas. As

geographies marked by long coastlines as

well as being blessed by sunshine, there is

much Cyprus and India can do together.

We invite you to become part of the ISA family.

As responsible na�on-states, both Cyprus and India are alive to the

challenges in the interna�onal system. As civilisa�ons, we have been open

socie�es and trading economies for millennia. The con�nued relevance of a

rules-based interna�onal order, for trade, for our sea lanes and the global

““ When we think for

India and when we act for

India, we try and think and

act for the world. We are

clear in our belief that the

global village is an organic,

integrated en�ty, where

everybody, every na�on, is

part of an interlinked chain

and contributes to each

other's prosperity

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

64

INDIA WITH CYPRUS AND CYPRUS WITH INDIA

65

mari�me commons, and in other domains is an ar�cle of faith for us. The

salience of na�onal sovereignty and the essen�al need to defeat radicalism

and terrorism unites us. In this regard, India has called for finalising the

Comprehensive Conven�on on Interna�onal Terrorism at the United

Na�ons and we count on your support. I would also like to thank Cyprus for

its uns�nted backing of India's candidature for an expanded UN Security

Council as well as for the Nuclear Suppliers' Group.

Exchange of visits and interac�ons between our countries are frequent and

much looked forward to. I am the fourth President of India to visit Cyprus;

and only a year ago the President of Cyprus graced us with his presence. It is

not common in diplomacy for Presidents of two countries to exchange visits

in successive years. That this has happened is an indicator of how special

our rela�onship is. Our Members of Parliament too have a tradi�on of

mee�ng each other and sharing thoughts on the deepening of democracy

and of development. I commend this and invite each one of you to visit

India. Allow us to at least a�empt to give you the type of hospitality that you

have so generously given my delega�on and me – and through us to the

people of India.

With those words, I once again thank you for allowing me the opportunity

to address this House. I wish all of you, and I wish the people of Cyprus, all

the very best for the future.

Address at the House of Representa�ves of Cyprus in Cyprus on September 3, 2018

Iam delighted to be here at the University of Cyprus to meet you and

reflect on what awaits the future of youth across na�ons. I am in Cyprus

for the first �me and have been cap�vated by the warmth of the Cypriot

people. Our two na�ons share very special �es and we celebrate this

friendship with great joy and pride.

Your esteemed University has contributed significantly towards the pursuit

of academic excellence and to the progress of Cyprus as a modern na�on.

The works of Nobel Laureate Christopher Pissarides and the cu�ng-edge

research being undertaken in this Campus are truly inspira�onal.

We live in a rapidly evolving world. The scale of change that we are likely to

see in a decade or so will be unprecedented in human history. The world of

technology, of start-ups, of innova�ons, of new ideas, of digital assistants,

of clean energy and of pasta straws will reorient our daily lives in an

unbelievable manner. What is of deeper import is that perhaps for the first

�me in history, the youth is directly involved in bringing about sweeping

changes and on such a massive scale. Yes, we did have young people

par�cipate in the Industrial Revolu�on but their energy and involvement

cannot be compared to what we see today.

Is there a correla�on or is it just a coincidence that when half the global

popula�on is below the age of 30, we are witnessing a youth-led digital

revolu�on? Let's leave that ques�on aside for the �me being. Youth, by

nature, is open-minded, always ready to experiment with the new. World

over, they have taken to technology and are the principal drivers of the

digital revolu�on. These changes present new opportuni�es to our youth

but also several challenges. Since we are among students, let us first look at

how the field of educa�on itself is being impacted by these developments.

Today, the tools available for learning have grownexponen�ally. Digital

classrooms have made learning more inclusive and interac�ve. Students

si�ng across different con�nents engage in a classroom. The catchment

area of ideas and cultures involved in educa�on has grown manifold.

Obviously, there is lot more imagina�on, thinking and involvement in

solving problems. Chemistry today is not being taught with just books but

with sounds, visuals and digital experiments. E-books and educa�on apps

have acquired a new salience. I understand that you are engaged in high-

end research on energy and oceans at this university. Talk to your colleagues

YOUTH, EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY IN A RAPIDLY EVOLVING WORLD

66

and you would know what meaning the new world of collabora�on has

added to their work.

Technology, indeed, has opened a whole new world of learning. And it has

also made it easier to accomplish our tasks. You should, however, not get

carried away by the instantness of technology. You must con�nue to work

hard without the expecta�on of immediate reward. The pursuit of

excellence should be the key factor that should dominate the minds of

future genera�ons.

As we talk of digital progress, we must dwell

on what the Fourth Industrial Revolu�on

promises for us. To me, it would be a force

mul�plier for development and growth. Yes,

it would disrupt conven�onal jobs - but with

advances in ar�ficial intelligence, life-

sciences and energy management, many

and more employment opportuni�es would

be created. Digital pla�orms, robo�cs, and

data analy�cs are going to impact not just

business processes, human health, public mobility but also dairy produc�on,

agricultural produc�vity and forest conserva�on.

A whole new life awaits us. These changes would also impact social mores.

We must shield our tradi�onal social structure and family against these

stresses. On one account, we have had posi�ve experience. Technology

growth has made students into new-age teachers. They are teaching the silver

genera�on to download apps and enjoy the comfort of new-age products.

As we move towards a knowledge-based society, skilling and retraining will

acquire centrestage of policy making and business development. In India,

we have undertaken a massive programme to skill 150 million people over

the next few years.

We are also focussed on making our educa�onal ins�tu�ons a�ain global

standards. Recently, six educa�onal ins�tu�ons have been accorded the

status of “Ins�tu�on of Eminence” to help them become world class

teaching and research centres. India has the third-largest scien�fic and

technical manpower in the world with over 4000 doctorate degrees

awarded annually. The patents filed by Indian Start-ups have gone up 15

�mes in 2017; from 61 in 2016 to 909 last year.

The changing world seeks greater collabora�on among the global community.

Despite its value, a digital classroom can hardly bring educa�on for all, if

““ The pursuit of

excellence should be the

key factor that should

dominate the minds of

future genera�ons

67

YOUTH, EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY IN A RAPIDLY EVOLVING WORLD

mountain communi�es in India, rural folks in Cyprus or desert towns in Africa

are le� behind on the digital highway. As we move deeper towards the

technology world, we must create open source pla�orms for communi�es

and countries to access the fruits of science and technology. Access, equity

and inclusion should remain key to developing and deploying technologies.

The Indian experience is of relevance in this context. Empowerment

through digital access is an objec�ve that the Government of India is

commi�ed to. "Digital India" is the world's largest, technology-led

transforma�ve programme which is paving the way for our ci�zens to avail

public services. Let me share a few examples of how digital technology is

becoming a great facilitator for "ease of living” in India:

- Today, a farmer can access weather and rainfall informa�on at the click

of a bu�on and decide on his cropping op�ons. Digital technology is,

therefore, contribu�ng to increase farm incomes.

- A small entrepreneur can register on the Government e-Marketplace,

and bid compe��vely for supply of goods. This leads to increased

efficiency and greater value for public money.

- Our students avail the services of the Na�onal Academic Depository. This

has allowed easy access of their cer�ficates and awards. The process of

seeking admission in schools and colleges has, thus, become simpler.

And it is not that we have developed these technology pla�orms for just

ourselves. We are equally commi�ed to sharing them with those who need

them. In this endeavour, we are guided by our age-old philosophy -

Vasudhaiva Kutumbamkam, that is, the whole world is a family. We are

making our space technology available for rural development in Madagascar

and bringing the fruits of tele-medicine to many across the globe.

As with the open space above us, the depths of our oceans also hold great

promise. There are limitless possibili�es that we can harness from Blue

economy. Cyprus has been a seafaring na�on for centuries. Time has come

for us to explore our oceans and its depth, for science, sustainability and food.

So far, I have talked of the opportuni�es before us. Now let us turn to some

of the challenges. As I said earlier, more than half the popula�on of this

world is under the age of 30. In India, we have 65% of our people below the

age of 35. This demographic trend calls for sustained growth so that there

are enough jobs for our young people. Global growth engines must,

therefore, con�nue to run, and run with speed. Greater trade, freer flow of

finance and purposeful technology collabora�on should define the path of

interna�onal rela�ons.

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

68

A far greater challenge, however, would be how you manage Climate

Change and the environmental stress. For the present genera�on, this

challenge amounts to dealing with variability in weather pa�erns, flash

floods and forest fires. The severity might be far more serious for our future

genera�ons. The problem is not insurmountable. By adding sustainability

to development, by preserving forests, respec�ng ecology and by adop�ng

clean energy op�ons, we can tackle climate change. On this account, India

has taken the lead through the Interna�onal Solar Alliance. As two ancient

cultures, India and Cyprus have lived in harmony with nature for centuries.

It is �me for us to bring back our sustainable prac�ces into our modern lives.

New age technology combined with the wisdom of the past can solve many

of our ecological problems.

The world of Big Data has its own security risks. As we put our economy, our

health and our educa�on online, we cannot afford any degree of

vulnerability. In �mes ahead, I foresee more ac�ve global coopera�on and

coordina�on to deal with cyber security.

Our two countries have the greatest respect for each other's leaders. We

have the highest regard for Archbishop Makarios in India. He gave you

freedom and us pride. In less than a month's �me, on 2ⁿ� October, we will

begin celebra�ng the 150�� birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. His message of

peace, compassion and jus�ce may always guide us as we seek to create a

be�er world for ourselves and for others. I will shortly unveil the bust of our

great poet Rabindranath Tagore in your campus. I would like to conclude my

address by quo�ng him. He said - “The highest educa�on is that which does

not merely give us informa�on, but makes our life in harmony with all

existence.” These words of wisdom are more relevant today when we try to

find our balance in the new world of technology and environmental ac�on.

I once again thank the University of Cyprus for providing me an opportunity

to share my thoughts with you. The youth of Cyprus are the future leaders

of this country. May you flourish and take your na�on to new heights. I wish

you every success in your careers.

Address at the University of Cyprus on “Youth, Technology and Ideas: Shaping the stContours of the 21 Century” in Cyprus on September 4, 2018

69

YOUTH, EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY IN A RAPIDLY EVOLVING WORLD

Iam happy to be here at the Sofia University, the premier ins�tu�on of

higher learning in Bulgaria, to speak on the theme “Educa�on as an

Instrument of Change and Shared Prosperity.” The growth of this

University has run in parallel with Bulgaria's na�onal renewal. Established

in 1888, shortly a�er Bulgaria gained independence, it has been at the

centre of intellectual ferment. For me this is an appropriate ins�tu�on to

meet the student community of Bulgaria and share thoughts on what our

people can do together. Scholarship and learning are the building blocks of

any meaningful interna�onal rela�onship – as is certainly the case between

Bulgaria and India.

thIt is a coincidence that I am at this University on September 5 . In India, this

is commemorated as Teachers' Day in honour of Dr S. Radhakrishnan,

whose birth anniversary falls today. Dr Radhakrishnan was one of my

dis�nguished predecessors as the President of India. He was a scholar-

statesman and philosopher of rare eminence. In 1954, as Vice-President of

India, he visited Bulgaria, and helped lay the founda�ons of our modern

rela�onship. My address today is dedicated to this great teacher and this

embodiment of Bulgaria-India rela�ons.

I would also like to use this occasion to pay tribute to India's teachers,

scholars and academics. They have drawn from India's age-old tradi�ons of

learning and wisdom and have contributed to India's reputa�on as a

knowledge power. They are a source of pride for India. Across con�nents,

Indian scholarship and academic excellence is recognised. It adds to the

global economy and knowledge structures – and it earns India goodwill.

Like India, Bulgaria understands such intellectual legacies. We are both

representa�ves of ancient civilisa�ons rooted in an�quity. There is evidence

of interac�on way back in the fourth century BC – during the age of the

Maurya dynasty in my country. Similari�es have been detected between the

Indian Brahmi script and the ancient Bulgarian script of Glagolitsa.

It does not stop there. The mutual fascina�on s�ll persists. Sofia University

has a flourishing Indology Department since 1983. It offers courses and

conducts research on India. It also has a Hindi Chair supported by the Indian

Council for Cultural Rela�ons. Delhi University has a Chair of Bulgarian

Language Studies. Students from Sofia University and other ins�tu�ons

travel to India on scholarships. They are part of a growing interna�onal

IN PURSUIT OF A CLOSER RELATION: BULGARIA AND INDIA

70

IN PURSUIT OF A CLOSER RELATION- BULGARIA AND INDIA

student community in India that come from 166 countries. I would like to

believe that the young Bulgarians who are part of this group come back

home as friends and ambassadors of India.

Many Indian students also study in Bulgaria, par�cularly at the medical

universi�es in Sofia, Pleven, Varna and elsewhere. Under the European

Union's EURASIA Project, our countries are collabora�ng in higher

educa�on. A Bulgaria-India Programme for Coopera�on in the Fields of

Science, Educa�on and Culture, which began in 1994, has proved to be

extremely useful. Among the agreements that have been signed during my

current visit is one on Coopera�on in Science and Technology. I am

confident it will take forward the partnership between our academic and

research communi�es.

Educa�on and the pursuit of learning serve mul�ple purposes. At a basic

level, they sa�sfy human curiosity and the quest to understand the universe

that much more, and that much be�er. Yet, the outcomes of learning are

also relevant to solving immediate problems and mee�ng challenges in our

socie�es. This is especially so with young people who are grappling with

unprecedented change.

The focus of our educa�on system, of our

knowledge produc�on and of our broader

social and economic efforts is to secure a

meaningful future for our younger

genera�ons – both in employment

poten�al and in contribu�ng to social

wellbeing. Here Bulgaria and India,

despite being so different, have common

concerns and common aspira�ons. About

a quarter of Bulgaria's popula�on is below

the age of 25. In India, 65 per cent of our

people are aged below 35. It is the dreams

of these young people, people such as

those who are here at this University, that

drive our endeavours.

These are dreams that we can realise

together. India would be happy to share its

blueprints and its experiences with Bulgaria, as per your country's priori�es.

India has a massive network of 903 universi�es and 39050 colleges. Close to

40 per cent of the universi�es and 80 per cent of the colleges are run by the

private sector. The government is encouraging the founding of more and

““ The focus of our

educa�on system, of our

knowledge produc�on

and of our broader social

and economic efforts is to

secure a meaningful

future for our younger

genera�ons – both in

employment poten�al

and in contribu�ng to

social wellbeing

71

more ins�tu�ons, par�cularly for medicine, technology and basic and

applied sciences. These could be public or private ins�tu�ons – that is not

important. What is cri�cal is that these ins�tu�ons conform to quality.

As part of this journey, the government of India has recently designated six

leading ins�tu�ons – including two of the well-regarded Indian Ins�tutes of

Technology – as “Ins�tu�ons of Eminence”. Three are public universi�es

and three private universi�es. They have been given academic and

administra�ve flexibility and special support. In return, they have

commi�ed to adhere to a �me-bound plan to upgrade and become among

the world's best in their domains.

stThe 21 century is an era of drama�c technological change. The Fourth

Industrial Revolu�on, Ar�ficial Intelligence, and the maturing of robo�cs

and of 3D and precision manufacture are changing how we live and work.

Digital technologies are allowing us to make jumps that were hitherto not

possible. In the classroom and outside, technology can be an enabler and

force-mul�plier. I will give you an example. India is one of the largest mobile

phone markets in the world, with over a billion mobile phone users.

Bulgaria also has impressive mobile penetra�on with, I have been told, over

125 mobile connec�ons per hundred residents.

These sta�s�cs indicate a communica�on revolu�on that has allowed our

people to leapfrog the stage of landline connec�ons. In India, the humble

mobile phone and Internet expansion have led to much more than just

people speaking to each other or e-mailing each other. They have created

an innova�on and start-up revolu�on that is disrup�ng many tradi�onal

business systems but, equally, crea�ng exci�ng opportuni�es.

This phenomenon is allowing farmers to access distant markets and get a

be�er price for their produce or for the value-added food products that

they process virtually at the farm-gate. It is allowing distant communi�es to

reach the formal financial and banking system without needing to visit

physical banks. This has dras�cally reduced the cost of transac�ons and

made business easier to do. The technology and digital revolu�on is being stled by young people from campuses. The university campuses of the 21

century are not just providers of degrees but also hubs of innova�on and

entrepreneurship and incubators of start-ups and small businesses driven

by technology – and by crea�ve minds buzzing with ideas and designing

game-changing apps.

This is a revolu�on playing out in real �me in India. It has made India the

world's third-largest innova�on and start-up hub and also the fastest-

growing large economy. The start-up universe in India is crea�ng not just jobs

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

72

and wealth – but also intellectual property. ln 2017 patent applica�ons by

Indian start-ups alone went up to 909 – a fi�een-fold increase from 2016. This

is part of a larger story that places India as the world's second-largest thcontributor to high-quality scien�fic research and 12 highest in terms of

patents filed. India's R&D investments are expected to touch USD 83 billion

this year. This is an exci�ng ecosystem. We invite our talented young friends

from Bulgaria to be a part of it. There are synergies between Bulgarian and

Indian ins�tu�ons that we can exploit to common benefit.

The surge in technology and knowledge-driven industries has implica�ons

beyond the lab and beyond the boardroom. For instance, India's space

programme launches satellites for a number of countries and is gearing up

to send Indian astronauts beyond our planet. Yet, the true worth of our

space mission is in remote-sensing technology that gives our farmers early

indica�ons of weather and soil pa�erns, and so enhances agricultural

produc�vity and incomes. Similar innova�ons are helping India fight

environmental challenges and air pollu�on, manage industrial effluents,

and seek alternate energy sources. India is co-founder and secretariat host

of the Interna�onal Solar Alliance, which was inaugurated earlier this year.

This is part of our push to combat climate change and create a more

sustainable world.

IN PURSUIT OF A CLOSER RELATION- BULGARIA AND INDIA

73

At the Sofia University

Other poten�al areas of research and scholarly coopera�on between

Bulgaria and India are in devising technologies to clean rivers and to explore

the poten�al of the blue economy. From the Black Sea to the Indian Ocean,

there is a vast treasure of mineral wealth under the waters. We need to

explore and use it, and here too our marine scien�sts and universi�es can

work together.

The 21st century is throwing a great many ques�ons at us. It is shaking our

cer�tudes as perhaps no previous century has. Our educa�on system and

universi�es will have to respond and provide answers that our socie�es

seek. And our universi�es will be our navigators through this roller-coaster

ride. Historically, Bulgaria and India have been centres of tradi�on as well as

change. We are socie�es with deep reserves and long memories. We are

also anchor na�ons in our respec�ve regions – in the Balkans and in the

Indian Ocean Region. It is for us, for our people, for our young people such

as the students in front of me, to make our partnership even more

meaningful. We are old civilisa�ons and young na�ons – we know each

other's value, and we understand each other's values. And this process

begins best when it begins on our university campuses.

May that spirit of inquiry and that ins�nct of learning bind the students of

Bulgaria and India – and may it bind our na�ons in an even closer associa�on.

With those words, I wish each one of you and I wish Sofia University all the

best. I look forward to your con�nued engagement with India.

Address at Sofia University in Sofia on September 5, 2018

74

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

Iam delighted to address the Bulgaria-India Business Forum along with

President Radev. I am happy to see the enthusias�c par�cipa�on in

this event. I commend the work of the Bulgarian Small and Medium

Enterprises Promo�on Agency supported by the Indian-Bulgarian Business

Chamber, who have worked hard to get a large delega�on to engage with

their Indian counterparts. From India, we have 65 companies led by the

Federa�on of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the

Confedera�on of Indian Industry, the PHD Chamber of Commerce and

Industry and the Trade Promo�on Council of India.

India and Bulgaria are �me-tested friends with a rela�onship that dates thback to the 8 century. Our rela�ons have progressed well in modern �mes

based on shared values of democracy and the rule of law. But I must confess,

while our poli�cal rela�ons have always

been strong and deep, our economic �es

have so far been modest. It is �me for us to

catch up. President Radev and I in our

mee�ng today have commi�ed ourselves

to write a new chapter in our economic

rela�ons. And I seek your commi�ed

support in this endeavour.

There are natural synergies between the

two economies and we need to tap them for

our mutual benefit. Bulgarian companies

can take advantage of the high growth

trajectory of the Indian economy. Indian

companies could form partnerships in

Bulgaria both for the domes�c market and

for the wider EU economy. The key areas

with poten�al for two-way trade and investment engagement include ICT,

Biotechnology, Pharmaceu�cals, Agriculture, Food Processing, Auto

Components, Medical Devices, Defence Produc�on, Infrastructure and

Tourism sectors. I am happy that all these sectors are well represented in this

hall. In several of them, Indian companies have already established their

presence here and Bulgarian enterprises in India.

Our bilateral trade stands at just over USD 300 million. This falls way below

the poten�al. I am confident that a lot more can be done together if we

INDIA AND BULGARIA: TIME-TESTED FRIENDS

““ India and Bulgaria

are �me-tested friends

with a rela�onship that

dates back to the 8th

century. Our rela�ons

have progressed well in

modern �mes based on

shared values of

democracy and the rule

of law

75

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

76

drive deeper into each other's economies and look for prospects. I am

certain your delibera�ons today would be produc�ve on that account.

The India story today is a promising one. As the fastest growing major

economy in the world, with a current growth rate of 8.2%, it is on course to

become a 5 trillion economy by 2025. It has recently become the 6th largest

economy in the world with a GDP of USD 2.6 trillion. The IMF has forecast

the Indian growth at 7.8% in 2019.Our economic graph offers long-term

prospects for Bulgarian companies to invest, trade and establish technology

�e-ups in India.

In order to transform India into a modern 21�� century inclusive economy,

our Government has taken a number of measures both to upli� the

economy and to improve the living standards of our ci�zens. An ambi�ous

plan to build next-genera�on infrastructure including 100 Smart Ci�es, 10

green-field airports, 7 high-speed train corridors, 5 major ports, highways

and na�onwide broadband connec�vity linking our villages and urban

areas is underway. 10,000 kilometres of na�onal highways were built last

year alone - that is an average of 27 kilometres daily! 111 rivers have been

iden�fied as Na�onal Waterways and our railway modernisa�on with new

metros and dedicated freight corridors is on track. Our clean energy target

is to produce 175 Gigawa� of renewable energy by 2022.

To boost manufacturing and the Make in India programme, a host of path

breaking reforms have been ini�ated, including the seminal Goods and

Service Tax. It has fulfilled the dreams of 1.3 billion Indians to have ONE

NATION, ONE TAX and ONE MARKET for the first �me in history. We have

repealed over 1400 outdated laws and the Central and State Governments

together have undertaken over 10,000 measures to make it easier for

businesses to establish and grow in India. As a result, India has jumped a

record 42 places in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business Index in the last

four years. Our business-friendly policies have placed India among the top

foreign direct investment des�na�ons globally, having received more than

US dollars 60 billion Foreign Direct Investment in 2016.

India is leading the Digital Revolu�on from the front. We are promo�ng

innova�on and entrepreneurship to provide choices to our youth. India

today is home to the third largest Start-up ecosystem in the world. In the

next few years, India will have a trinity of a billion bank accounts, a billion

Aadhar that is biometric Iden�fica�on cards and a billion mobile phones.

This will create a digital ecosystem unique in the world.

Tradi�onally strong in the IT sector, India has the largest pool of digital

talent in the world and is the largest ICT sourcing des�na�on. Bulgaria is

also famous for its ICT strengths. There is immense poten�al for our

77

companies to come together to collaborate in ar�ficial intelligence, data

analy�cs, the internet of things, robo�cs and nanotechnology.

The India-Bulgaria defence coopera�on is a longstanding one. Bulgaria can

help India meet its massive defence requirements. I invite Bulgarian

companies to join hands with Indian majors and manufacture in India both

for the local market and for rest of the world.

India and Bulgaria have proven strengths in science & technology. India is

the home of frugal innova�on. We sent a space shu�le Mangalyaan to Mars

at a cost of USD 74 million which is less than what it takes to make a

Hollywood movie. Last year we successfully launched 104 satellites into the

orbit from a single launch vehicle, the first of its kind in the world. We now

look forward to launch our first manned space mission – Gaganyaan.

Business to Business collabora�on in high-technology, energy and space

fields holds tremendous prospects for the two sides.

Bulgaria's beau�ful mountains and the Black Sea coast are a�rac�ng the

Indian film industry. This has added to the a�rac�on that Bulgaria holds as a

tourist des�na�on. There are new opportuni�es to be tapped in the

hospitality, infrastructure and avia�on sectors. Today's signing of the

Memorandum of Understanding on Coopera�on in Tourism is a welcome

step in this direc�on.

Educa�on and skill development are also areas where there is scope to train

each others' students and professionals in high standards at a modest cost,

especially in ICT and medicine. This will lead to new jobs and opportuni�es

for our people. Further, there is significant poten�al for joint ventures and

business �e-ups in the pharma and healthcare sectors. Indian companies

have lately made pharma acquisi�ons in the Bulgarian market. Lot more

mutually beneficial businesses await to be transacted. Coopera�on in the

field of agriculture and food processing also holds much promise.

India is abuzz with growth and business dynamism. I call upon the wealth of

experience, exper�se and enthusiasm in this hall to seize these

opportuni�es. I invite you to engage and invest in India. I wish you the very

best and seek your support to take India-Bulgaria economic partnership to

greater heights.

Address at the India-Bulgaria Business Forum in Sofia on September 5, 2018

INDIA AND BULGARIA: TIME TESTED FRIENDS

Iam delighted to address the India-Czech Business Forum. I am happy

to see the enthusias�c par�cipa�on from both sides in our

engagement today. We have members from the Czech Chambers of

Commerce and the Czech Associa�on of Medium and Small Enterprises in

the gathering. From India, we have a 50 member delega�on represen�ng

the Federa�on of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the

Confedera�on of Indian Industry, the PHD Chamber of Commerce and

Industry and the Trade Promo�on Council of India with us. I warmly

welcome all of you. Your strong presence here is indeed a signature of the

trust that you place in the India-Czech business co-opera�on.

I understand you have had a frui�ul day of

engagement. I am hopeful that our

economic �es will get a boost from your

business delibera�ons today. India and

the Czech Republic are two ancient

civilisa�ons. There was a flourishing trade

in spices, between India and the Kingdom

of Bohemia, as early as the 9th century.

The Czechoslovak Consulate opened in Bombay in 1920 even before India's

independence. The Bata Shoe Company was founded in this country but its

widespread presence in India compels us to consider it our own. Such early

and rich history of engagement can only inspire us to be more op�mis�c, of

the future of India-Czech trade and investment rela�ons.

Today, I had meaningful discussions with President Zeman, on taking

forward India-Czech mul�-faceted rela�ons, with special emphasis on our

economic �es. We are both convinced that there is immense poten�al to

take the rela�onship to a higher level.

We consider the Czech Republic as a leading economic partner. India's

growth story and Czech technological exper�se and manufacturing prowess

make the two natural partners. India is the fastest growing, major economy

in the world, with a growth rate of 8.2% last quarter. We have undertaken an

ambi�ous plan to build the next-genera�on infrastructure, including smart

ci�es, airports, high-speed trains, highways, and cyber connec�vity. There is

a rapid growth in construc�on of na�onal highways, and there are ambi�ous

plans to develop more than a hundred rivers as na�onal waterways. These

open up immense opportuni�es for our interna�onal partners.

BOOSTING TRADE BETWEEN INDIA AND THE CZECH REPUBLIC

““ There is immense

poten�al to take the

rela�onship to a higher

level

78

We have also undertaken bold reforms to boost our manufacturing sector,

and 'Make in India' ini�a�ve. A major reform is the introduc�on of Goods

and Services Tax. This has fulfilled the dreams of 1.3 billion Indians to have

ONE NATION, ONE TAX and ONE MARKET for the first �me. Both the central

and state governments have undertaken measures to make it easier for

business to be established in India. These reforms have helped India jump

42 places in the World Bank Ease of Doing Business Index.

Our business-friendly policy has allowed Foreign Direct Investment worth

USD 60 billion to flow into the country in 2016-17. India has recently thbecome the 6 largest economy in the world and is poised to be a 5 trillion

dollar economy by 2025. The Indian growth and demand, complemented

with a large consumer market, offer huge business opportuni�es and scope

for investment. Our flagship programs including the Swachh Bharat i.e.

Clean India, Skill India, Make in India, and Digital India offer immense

prospects for Czech companies to join the Indian growth story.

Our economies have significant complementari�es which can be leveraged

for mutually beneficial coopera�on. Indian companies have achieved

exper�se in the fields of IT, Infrastructure, pharmaceu�cals, automobiles

and services. India offers market for scaling up strengths of Czech companies

in heavy engineering, defence, advanced manufacturing, automo�ve and

energy fields. I also see a lot of scope for Indian and Czech companies to

engage in new-age technologies and join hands to reap the benefits of the

Fourth Industrial Revolu�on.

The Defence sector has been a vital area of coopera�on between the two

countries. Defence produc�on in India has been opened for the private

sector to par�cipate. Our defence requirements are huge. Indian

79

BOOSTING TRADE BETWEEN INDIA AND THE CZECH REPUBLIC

Address at the India-Czech Republic Business Forum

80

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

companies are looking at Czech defence majors to partner with them. I

invite Czech defence companies to come, invest and manufacture in India.

Major Indian companies have invested in the Czech Republic in sectors like IT,

vehicles, tea, tex�le, pharmaceu�cal, and auto-components. Czech

investments in India are present in the machinery, transporta�on, power

and automo�ve sectors. Czech auto brand SKODA is doing very well in India

and we are happy that they have announced new plans to expand their

produc�on with an investment of USD 1 billion.

The investment by Czech majors in 'Make in India' ini�a�ve is a reaffirma�on

of the immense promise of Indo-Czech rela�onship. From BATA to SKODA,

the story of India-Czech partnership has been defined by popular embrace,

sustainable prac�ces and high business confidence. We encourage Czech

enterprises to remain invested in the Indian growth story.

India-Czech bilateral trade at USD 1.07 billion, does not really reflect our

true poten�al. There is a need to redouble our efforts. From our side, our

Commerce and Industry Minister will lead a business delega�on next

month to co-chair the Joint India-Czech Economic Commission, to be held in

Prague. I am sure the Commission mee�ng will generate new ideas to give a

boost to our bilateral trade and diversify our economic linkages.

Another area which we must always consider is par�cipa�on in each other's

fairs and exhibi�ons. India's par�cipa�on as a partner country in the

pres�gious MSV Interna�onal Engineering Expo in Brno, last October

reciprocated by Czech Republic's par�cipa�on as a partner country in the

Interna�onal Engineering Sourcing Show in Chennai this year has resulted

in new business openings for the two sides.

Entertainment is another growing area of economic engagement. A

number of Indian and Bollywood films have been shot in the Czech

Republic. This has led to increased tourist flow from India to this country.

The Indian economy is a dynamic story. We urge you to explore, ini�ate and

expand your footprint in India. Indian companies are also keen to invest and

establish new business �e-ups here. I invite you to partner us in India's

exci�ng and transforma�ve journey which is going to usher in a new era not

just for India and the Czech Republic but for the en�re world.

Address at the India-Czech Business Forum in Prague on September 7, 2018

The 11 World Hindi Conference was held recently in Mauri�us about th

a month ago. I would like to congratulate the External Affairs Minister

Smt. Sushma Swaraj and her team for its outstanding success.

Out of the 11 World Hindi Conferences held so far, eight have been held

abroad and three of them have been held in Mauri�us itself. However, this

was the first �me that a World Hindi Conference had been organised with

the support of the local government. The Government of Mauri�us

provided immense support at every level for its successful organisa�on. I

would especially like to congratulate the Government of Mauri�us for this.

thOn 20 August 2018, Hindi scholars, teachers, and ins�tutes from India and

abroad were honoured in Mauri�us. I

congratulate all those Hindi scholars. 6 Hindi

scholars who could not a�end the ceremony

then have been honoured today. I would like

to congratulate them also and wish them a

long life and hope that they con�nue to serve

Hindi language and society. Service to

language is service to na�on. It is the na�on

that is honoured when writers, linguists,

teachers, and ins�tutes who serve a language

are honoured.

The former Prime Minister late Shri Atal

Bihari Vajpayee had a special place for Hindi

in his heart and had honoured and respected

the language by delivering his address in

Hindi at the United Na�ons. He did true

service to Hindi. We lost him exactly a month

ago. I bow in his memory.

Today, one can observe Hindi's powerful presence on the world map. Outside

India, more than 10 million people speak Hindi and it is being taught in

universi�es in all major countries. This is why more than 2000 representa�ves thfrom 45 countries have taken part in the 11 World Hindi conference. In India,

in the 2011 census, it was revealed that the number of Hindi speakers had

risen to almost 530 million. This is a good thing. We all know that a language's

power depends on its speakers' prosperity, thought, and behavior. If a society

becomes powerful, its language becomes powerful. And, in turn, if a language

prospers, its society prospers both socially and economically.

SERVICE TO A LANGUAGE

81

““ ..... a language's

power depends on its

speakers' prosperity,

thought, and behavior.

If a society becomes

powerful, its language

becomes powerful. And,

in turn, if a language

prospers, its society

prospers both socially

and economically

It is said that any culture stays alive on the strength of its language and

customs. Language and culture increases self-esteem. A society teeming

with self-esteem moves forward. Cultural preserva�on through language thhas been achieved in Mauri�us. I had travelled to Mauri�us on the 50

anniversary of Mauri�an independence, about 6 months ago, in March

2018. I felt a unique familiarity and cultural affinity. Hindi played an

important part in our independence struggle and it played a similar role in

Mauri�an independence movement. Hindi language and Indian culture is

melded with Mauri�an social-cultural behavior.

Indian emigrants resisted the oppression during the colonial �mes on the

strength of courage, pa�ence, culture, faith, language, and hard work.

These tools helped create an honourable place for Indian emigrants in

countries like Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad-Tobago, South Africa, and Fiji.

Hindi has been designated the na�onal language of Fiji. Almost 37 per cent

of people in Fiji speak Hindi. We are proud of them. They share a deep

a�achment with India. The threads of this a�achment are implicit in

Indian linguis�c tradi�ons. To strengthen this rela�onship, I will soon be

travelling to Fiji.

Hindi films have made an unprecedented contribu�on in popularising

Indian linguis�c tradi�ons in India and abroad. It is a pleasant surprise to see

that our cinema and our cinema characters serve as our introduc�on

abroad. This month, during my trip to Bulgaria and Czech Republic, I

observed that Hindi films and Hindi literature are immensely popular there. I

have been told that the President of Bulgaria is a Hindi cinema lover. This is

why I gi�ed him casse�es of 25 Hindi films and he was very happy about this.

During my trip to Czech Republic earlier, I was invited to give a lecture at the

Department of Indology of theUniversity of Charles. Four students of the

Department were asked to speak in the language of their choice during my

welcome ceremony. Do you know which languages they chose? They spoke

in Hindi, Sanskrit, Tamil, and Bangla. This touched everyone's hearts.

Prague has named a railway sta�on and a park a�er the great poet

Rabindranath Tagore. Many people greeted me in Hindi. We must put this

so� power of Hindi literature and films to good use.

The use of film dialogues and songs can be increased in the teaching of

Indian languages to foreigners. Such an experiment to teach Hindi and Urdu

in Japan has been successful. Many people from abroad come to India in

large numbers to study or travel. For their ease, mobile apps can be

developed in which they can learn about India through songs and tunes.

They can also use such apps to learn about how to ask anyone about our day

to day language, rituals and customs and cuisine

82

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

The literature composed by Tulsidas has played an important role in

popularising Hindi in foreign countries. The Ramayana has had a special

place in Girimi�ya countries. From Japan to the U.S.A. and from Russia to

Mauri�us, Ramayana has been translated in local languages and many

thesis have been wri�en on it.

To strengthen Hindi's pres�ge in the world, we must first strengthen its

founda�on in India. We must make it into a language of knowledge and

advanced sciences. We must increase employment opportuni�es in Hindi.

Today's era is an era of technology. Devices like smartphones are shortening

the distance between languages and hence we must make great use of

technology in popularising Hindi.

India has made good progress in the field of informa�on technology. It has

the poten�al to shape the future of Indian languages, including Hindi. It has

been es�mated that the Internet content in Hindi is increasing by 94% every

year. It has also been speculated that in the next few years, the Indian

languages will make up 50% of the language used for internet. In the past

few years, big companies have fast adopted Hindi and Indian languages to

communicate its messages and adver�se its products to the Indian

consumer. The demand for Indian languages in digital technology is

increasing. The future of Indian languages seems bright.

I would, once again, like to thank the External Affairs Minister Smt. Sushma

Swaraj and her colleagues, along with the en�re Hindi fraternity, for

successfully organising the World Hindi Conference. I express my best wishes

for the success of their commitment to the pres�ge of the Hindi language.

thTranslated version of the address delivered in Hindi on the occasion of the 11 World

Hindi Conference in New Delhi on September 17, 2018

83

SERVICE TO A LANGUAGE

Iwould like to thank all of you from the bo�om of my heart for this warm

welcome. I am very happy to be on this visit to Tajikistan and meet all of

you. We have had a special and historical rela�onship with this country.

As the President of India, this is my first visit to this beau�ful country and to

Central Asia. However, I am connected to Tajik people and culture in

another special way and I would like to share it with you.

When I was the Governor of Bihar, I had the opportunity of learning deeply

about the humanism of the great Farsi poet, Bedil. He was born in Patna, the

capital of Bihar. Tajik people greatly admire him and his poetry. Tomorrow, I

will meet President Rahmon where we will discuss the advancement of

Indo-Tajik rela�onship. He is a close friend of India and has always given his

unwavering support to India-Tajikistan rela�onship.

I have been welcomed in Dushanbe with great warmth and affec�on. One

feels a profound closeness to one's own people when one meets them in

another country. I have had the opportunity of mee�ng and addressing the

Indian Diaspora in many parts of the world. I want to tell you that it gives me

immense pleasure to meet them this way and I cherish this feeling.

I have been told that the Indian community here is small but what is special is

that they have become close not just with each other but also with the Tajik

people. Just now, in my welcome, Tajik and Indian youth presented a

beau�ful Indian cultural programme. This magnificent presenta�on is a

proof of this closeness and it has won my heart. What gives me most

happiness is that this country has a deep interest in learning about Indian

culture, languages, dance, and music. Indian cinema and Bollywood stars are

quite popular here. Why is this so? Perhaps because our two countries have

similar lifestyles, and this is why we understand each other with such ease.

There is a lot of cultural similarity between India

and Tajikistan. This similarity can also be observed

in our cuisines, music, a�res, and languages. Our

Indian brothers and sisters who live here must

find great comfort in these similari�es.

Since centuries there has been a mutual sharing

of ideologies, philosophy, thought, and religion

between India and Tajikistan. In both these

countries, tolerant humanis�c tradi�ons have

prospered. The great emperor Kanishka is as revered here as in India.

Buddhist, Parsi, and Hindu beliefs have also prospered in this country.

PARTNERSHIP FOR POSTERITY

84

““ Since centuries

there has been a mutual

sharing of ideologies,

philosophy, thought, and

religion between India

and Tajikistan

Travelling through the Silk Route via rivers, valleys, and mountainous

passes, Tajik art, cra�, and commerce has had a presence in India. This

a�ernoon while travelling to Tajikistan, I was gazing down from my aircra�

and I was pleased to no�ce that not just history but also geography has

helped create closeness between the two countries. From the sky, it seems

like the huge Pamir Mountains, with open arms, are moving towards the

Himalayas for an embrace.

I have been told that medical students and professionals comprise a large

part of Tajikistan's Indian Diaspora. I am happy that you have earned

pres�ge with your hard work and integrity. Many among you, a�er

comple�ng your educa�on here, will return to India and contribute to our

health and wellbeing. I am also happy to see that Indian cultural tradi�ons

have been kept alive in this country. I have been told that all of you celebrate

Holi, Diwali, Eid, and other Indian fes�vals with euphoria and excitement.

Once, Indian communi�es prospered in Khujand, Panjakent, Samarkand,

and other glorious ci�es of the Silk Route. They must have celebrated

fes�vals and carnivals much in the same way as you do today.

India is the world's fastest growing major economy, growing at the rate of

7.8%. Our economic reforms and development-focused governance have

started showing good results. In a period of just 4 years, we have electrified

every village of India by providing electricity to the remaining 18,000

villages located in remote areas. This achievement has helped India move thup 73 places to reach 26 posi�on in the World Bank's electricity

accessibility ranking. Major flagship government programmes including

Make in India, Clean India, Start Up India, and Digital India are advancing

rapidly. We have provided clean LPG to 50 million households under our

Ujjwala programme. We have provided financial support to millions of

people under the Mudra programme. Women are the biggest beneficiaries

of this programme.

Through Interna�onal Solar Alliance, we are uni�ng the world in the fight

against climate change. A new energy can be seen in India now. I request all

of you to find opportuni�es in India and contribute in your own way to its

economic development.

thThis year, we are celebra�ng Mahatma Gandhi's 150 birth anniversary. On nd2 October, in Gandhiji's memory, the Mahatma Gandhi Interna�onal

Sanita�on Conven�on was organised in Delhi. Tajikistan also took part in

the Conven�on. I hope that you will spread Bapu's message across the

world. Tomorrow, I am looking forward to pay my respects at the statue of

Mahatma Gandhi in Dushanbe.

85

PARTNERSHIP FOR POSTERITY

86

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

The development of India reflects the new confidence of the country. We

have made notable expansion in our Interna�onal rela�ons. For centuries,

we have believed in the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and

regarded the whole world as our family. This is why we have rescued not just

our own people from hos�le circumstances and natural disasters but

helped others, too. In the last 4 years, we have been successful in rescuing

more than 90,000 ci�zens stuck abroad under difficult circumstances. This

includes ci�zens of more than 50 countries.

You must have felt in the last few years that we have massively changed the

government's way of connec�ng with the Indian Diaspora. The rela�onship

between resident and non-resident Indians has deepened emo�onally,

culturally, economically, and ins�tu�onally. We have started a 'Know-India

Quiz' for improving our communica�on with Indians living abroad. We have

also directed our High Commissions and Embassies to remain open for 24

hours to help those in need.

We believe that the Indian Diaspora is our important partner in

strengthening our interna�onal reach. Every Indian among you is important

in spreading India's message. While it is true that the Government of India

has appointed an ambassador here, we believe that every Indian is our

cultural ambassador. We trust that you will bring India and Tajikistan even st rdcloser. Next year, from 21 to 23 January, we are celebra�ng Pravasi

Bhara�ya Diwas in Varanasi. I invite all of you to be a part of it.

I would like to tell our Tajik friends present here that India will con�nue to

support Tajikistan in fields of capacity building and development. I would

also like to praise the work being done by this country's teachers,

professors, and specialists in Indology and Indian languages. This year, it has

given me immense pleasure to award the Padma Shri to the famous

Indologist of Tajikistan, Professor Habibullah Rajabov, for his contribu�ons

in the fields of educa�on and literature.

To conclude, I would urge you to contribute extensively to the deepening

partnership between these two great na�ons.

Translated version of the address delivered in Hindi at the Indian Community and

Friends of India Recep�on in Dushanbe, Tajikistan on October 7, 2018

Iam delighted to be at the Tajik Na�onal University, a seat of learning

that has played a defining role in the making of Tajikistan, and

con�nues to illuminate and guide its vision and progress. Your country

and Central Asia, the great centres of learning and culture- Samarkand and

Khujand, have nurtured the spirit of crea�vity and inquiry for centuries. You

are proud flag-bearers of that enlightened scholas�c tradi�on, of the voice

of Rudaki and Bedil, from which the en�re world con�nues to draw

sustenance and inspira�on.

I have chosen to speak on the topic “Countering Radicaliza�on: Challenges

before Modern Society” for two reasons. First, your country has done

commendable work to tackle this global menace and foster peace for one

and all. And the world must recognise it. Second, the ba�le against

terrorism, extremism and radicalism must be fought, first and foremost, in

the minds of people, between those who believe in peace, love and

humanity and those who feed on hatred, death and destruc�on. It is a ba�le

of opposing ideas, of humanity on one hand and a make-belief world on the

other. Talking to the youth, our future; and scholars, our guide and

pathfinders, therefore, becomes essen�al. As the President of India, I am

Visitor of 160 Universi�es and Ins�tu�ons of Higher Learning. This has given

me an opportunity to frequently speak to the youth in my country as well.

Our two countries have much in common. Our histories are rooted in

inclusive and tolerant values. All religions and thoughts have prospered and

blossomed in the land of the Pamir and the Himalayas. Today, we are

confronted with those who wish to burn and destroy the fabric of our faiths,

the embrace of our togetherness.

The people of this country have made enormous sacrifice to stop the surge

of bigotry and faith-based regressive ideas from capturing centre-stage.

This not only saved your budding Republic in the 1990s but also firewalled

your neighbouring Central Asian Republics. They too, were then, struggling

with challenges that young na�ons face. We sincerely hope there is deeper

understanding of the geopoli�cal significance of the Tajik Civil War.

Today, as you can see around you, there are renewed a�empts to impose

obscuran�st thoughts on peaceful socie�es. This is threatening the

founda�on of human civilisa�on. Their targets are people and socie�es,

NURTURING THE SPIRIT OF CREATIVITY AND INCLUSIVENESS TO COUNTER RADICALISATION

87

who value progressive life and respect diversity of faiths and cultures.

Notwithstanding your historic struggle and subsequent victory in the civil

war, the long-drawn war is far from over. It is evident in every day brutal

killings and senseless violence. Perpetrators of this evil seek legi�macy in

scriptures, where none exist. No religion, none whatsoever, be it Hinduism,

Islam, Buddhism, Chris�anity, Sikhism or Judaism jus�fies violence and

killing one human being by the other. They all talk in one language and that

is the language of peace, harmony, compassion and kindness. The war on

terror and radicalisa�on is not against any religion, and should never be.

Quite on the contrary, it is against those who believe in destroying the

crea�on of the Almighty.

We laud the leadership of President Rahmon in figh�ng terrorism and

countering radicalisa�on. You are a frontline State against the war on terror

and the world admires and respects your courage. We recognise the

enormous challenges the Tajik security forces face every day. You have to

fight terrorists and deal with those who are brain-washed with radical

ideas. The hot-bed of death and destruc�on is not far from you. You also

have to contend with provoca�ons to young minds – many of which are

through the Internet and social media.

The world that we Indians live in is not very different from yours. Terrorism

does not believe in borders! India, like Tajikistan, is taking on terrorism and

extremism head-on. We, too, face the problem of radicalisa�on but we

have been successful in dealing with it. It is not the ques�on of how we

have done but rather why we have been able to do it. I wish to share some

of our experiences.

Our inclusive society, where socio-economic partnership and par�cipatory

poli�cs provide everybody an inherent sense of belonging to the na�on has

been the most effec�ve bulwark against radicalisa�on. Our belief in

pluralism, democracy and secularism has been successful in trumping the

ideology of hate and divisiveness. From the film industry to India's cricket

team and from the professional arena to poli�cs, India is a land of equal

opportunity and equal respect for all. A growing economy li�s one and all

leading to inclusive development.

Our society has always believed in the power of ideas derived from our

history, civilisa�on and culture. Our age-old values of Sufism, of humanism

have shielded us against dark and ugly designs. The call of our revered Sufi

saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya,– “Almighty holds dear those who love Him

for the sake of human beings, and those who love human beings for the sake

of Almighty” binds our social fabric.

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THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

From our childhood, we are taught

oneness, of insaniyat as our creed, of

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – meaning, the

world is one family. It is natural, then, that

the invita�on to destruc�on, even with its

false but temp�ng narra�ves, generally

does not appeal to the Indian mind. For a

vast country that we are, I must share that

those working over�me to infect us with

their deadly virus have not succeeded and

never will.

I must also emphasise the posi�ve role of

family and educa�on in preven�ng and

countering radicalisa�on of the youth in

my country. Our family-based social

structure, much like yours, is a guarantee

against extremist ideas. We have

witnessed tremendous resilience in our

family as an ins�tu�on, which has

prevented vulnerable youth from ge�ng

drawn into the vortex of radicalisa�on and

terror. There have been cases where

parents and rela�ves alerted authori�es to save young targets from

radicalisa�on. Added to our family and community linkages, our religious

leaders have also played a pivotal role in rejec�ng, condemning and

countering the narra�ve of hate and terror.

But we have to be ever vigilant against aliena�on. We have to ensure fairness

and honesty in our approach. And we have to be cau�ous of the cyber world to

prevent those who can go astray. This is challenging no doubt. But with

technology, with digital finger-prin�ng and algorithms we can out do the other.

The poli�cs of terror and radicalisa�on to destabilise society is not the

monopoly of non-state actors. India has been ba�ling cross-border

terrorism for long. If you recall your early days of civil war, I am certain that

similar bi�er memories will resurface. You could put those days behind you,

successfully repelling unwanted interven�on. Our close friend Afghanistan

is not so lucky. Both India and Tajikistan must work together to bring peace

and stability in Afghanistan and the region.

India has deep and special historical �es with all Central Asian Republics. Our

rela�ons with each of them are flourishing. Our shared past and our shared

89

NURTURING THE SPIRIT OF CREATIVITY AND

INCLUSIVENESS TO COUNTER RADICALISATION

“

“ Our inclusive

society, where socio-

economic partnership

and par�cipatory poli�cs

provide everybody an

inherent sense of

belonging to the na�on

has been the most

effec�ve bulwark against

radicalisa�on. Our belief

in pluralism, democracy

and secularism has been

successful in trumping

the ideology of hate and

divisiveness

90

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

aspira�ons have got us together in a collec�ve embrace. We are strengthening

our security coopera�on programmes. We held the latest India-Central Asia

dialogue in Samarkand. We are also engaging each other through regional

pla�orms such as the Shanghai Coopera�on Organiza�on to tackle terrorism

and extremism. India remains commi�ed to collaborate bilaterally, regionally

and mul�laterally to strengthen the global fight against terrorism.

Today morning, I met President Rahmon. We shared our common concerns

on the security situa�on around us. I complimented him for the lead taken

by Tajikistan in collabora�on with the United Na�ons to counter radicalism.

We also commi�ed ourselves to defea�ng these forces. In this endeavour,

we can do much to learn from each other, be it for youth mobilisa�on,

effec�ve social communica�on, impar�ng educa�on or inter-faith dialogue

and conversa�on. We must cooperate to choke the financing networks of

terrorists and their likes. And we must strengthen our security coopera�on

and share best prac�ces to counter radicalisa�on.

Trade and economic growth are long-term fundamentals on which

peaceful socie�es prosper. Economic progress and equity act as a bulwark

against the spread of radical ideas. We are determined to overcome the

lack of our connec�vity with Tajikistan and with Central Asia, so that our

economic rela�ons grow and gallop. We, indeed, have a stake in your

progress and prosperity.

Before arriving here, I had the honour to pay floral tributes to two great sons

of India – Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore. Mahatma Gandhi has

shown us the path of Ahimsa or nonviolence, and the words of Tagore teach

us to shun parochialism. These are eternal

values that we must share and we must live.

I would like to conclude by drawing your

a�en�on to our shared heritage of humanism.

The great Indian poet Mirza Abdul Qadir Bedil,

who is remembered fondly in the lands of

Amu and Syr Dariya wrote :

fpLr balku~\ dekys dqnjrs b”d ekfu;s dk,ukrks lwjr b”d

What is human being? Perfect expression of

love. He is the true meaning of universe and

face of love.

““ Trade and

economic growth are

long-term fundamentals

on which peaceful

socie�es prosper.

Economic progress and

equity act as a bulwark

against the spread of

radical ideas

91

If we ins�ll this love for humanity in ourselves and spread the same to

others, peace and love will prevail in our hearts, in our minds and in our

world. I wish all of you a bright future.

Address at the Tajik Na�onal University on “Countering Radicaliza�on: Challenges

before Modern Society” in Dushanbe on October 8, 2018

Address at the Tajik National University on the topic “Countering Radicalization: Challenges before Modern Society”

NURTURING THE SPIRIT OF CREATIVITY AND

INCLUSIVENESS TO COUNTER RADICALISATION

It is an honour for me to be addressing the Na�onal Assembly and the

people of Vietnam. I would like to thank the members of this Assembly,

who represent all regions of your country, and in par�cular Madam

Chairperson for extending the invita�on. And I would like to thank President

Nguyen Phu Trong and the government and people of Vietnam for the

warm hospitality accorded to my delega�on and me over the past two days.

For India, all diploma�c engagements are important but some rela�onships

are special. Our friendship with Vietnam is certainly special. Vietnam is the

first ASEAN and Southeast Asian country I am visi�ng in my capacity as

President of India. In fact, this is my first state visit to any na�on in the east

of India. Vietnam is always on our minds and in our hearts. It is pivotal to

India's “Act East” policy.

The strength of engagement between two countries is represented by their

bilateral calendar. Four years ago, in 2014, my predecessor, President

Pranab Mukherjee visited Vietnam. Two years a�er that in 2016, our Prime

Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, arrived for a landmark visit that upgraded our

linkages to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The year 2018 has been

even more intense. In January, I have had the opportunity to welcome

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan to our Republic Day celebra�ons, at which he

was Chief Guest, along with leaders of other ASEAN countries. In March, we

were privileged to host the late President Tran Dai Quang. His sudden

passing was a shock for all of us. He was a great patriot and an ardent

advocate of India-Vietnam rela�ons. I offer condolences on behalf of the

Government and people of India, and on my own part as well.

I would take this opportunity to congratulate General Secretary and

President Nguyen Phu Trong for the overwhelming confidence reposed in

him by the Party and the Na�onal Assembly and for assuming the

responsibility of President of Vietnam. I am confident that India-Vietnam

rela�ons will prosper with his support, guidance and leadership.

India's associa�on with Vietnam has many aspects. We have robust

business, poli�cal and people-to-people bonds. We exchange parliamentary

visits, as members of this Assembly are no doubt familiar. We are both

ancient mari�me na�ons and are stakeholders in the commerce, security

and stability of the Indo-Pacific Region. Above all, we share the same values.

Our founding fathers taught us to dream the same dreams – dreams for

INDIA AND VIETNAM:A SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP

92

ourselves, dreams for each other, dreams for post-colonial na�ons

everywhere, and dreams for the future and for our children.

I would like to point out that 2019 is of great significance. In India, it marks ththe 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and in Vietnam it is being

thcommemorated as the 50 anniversary of the passing of the great Ho Chi

Minh. These revolu�onary figures inspired our respec�ve countries to

a�ain poli�cal freedom. They remain inspira�ons for not just Vietnam and

India but for the en�re Asian con�nent and the global community. The

coming year once again links these two remarkable personali�es and unites

our countries.

The values of liberty, freedom and integrity that Gandhiji and President Ho

Chi Minh espoused are rooted in our shared history – a history of

scholarship and mutual learning, and of abiding Buddhist and Hindu

spiritual connec�ons. The enlightened path of the Buddha has brought our

countries closer. Buddhism's journey as a world religion began from India

and in Vietnam it acquired a unique iden�ty, embedded in local culture.

Buddhist monks and nuns travelled far and wide, carrying with them the

cargo of compassion – and also showing the way to traders and

businesspersons. Buddhism created an early form of globalisa�on and of

connectedness across our ocean.

Yesterday, in Da Nang, I saw glimpses of Vietnam's rich heritage when I

visited the Museum of Cham Culture and the My Son temple complex,

where, I was happy to note, the Archaeological Survey of India is

contribu�ng to the restora�on of your cultural marvels. Almost 2,000 years

ago, the Cham kingdom symbolised one of history's great civilisa�ons. From

Vietnam, it traded across the ocean – its ships carrying goods as far west as

India and West Asia. It is believed that ancient Vietnam had flourishing

mari�me and trade links with southern India's Pallava and Chola kingdoms.

Those pioneering travellers and pilgrims promoted fraternal rela�ons

between cultures and countries –within a framework of restraint and self-

discipline, sustainability and accommoda�on. These are important lessons

from Lord Buddha that are relevant for us even today.

The historical values and lessons I referred to have also shaped India's

approach to socio-economic development. We believe in development that

is people-centric, that adds value to rather than adds a burden to local

communi�es; that respects and conserves nature and the environment and

is not extrac�ve; and that challenges and disincen�vises corrup�on and

related prac�ces. In India we are deeply apprecia�ve of the rapid progress

made by Vietnam in recent years. Poverty levels here were at over 70 per

93

INDIA AND VIETNAM - A SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP

cent in the 1990s but are below 10 per cent today. India too is on course to

elimina�ng extreme poverty by 2030.

Our economy and society are going through a massive change. Technology

is transforming the way we live and work, and empowering local

communi�es. Digital India and the humble mobile phone are bridging

physical gaps – whether by enhancing communica�on or providing virtual

bank accounts to those in remote loca�ons. A start-up ecosystem, one of

the largest in the world, is leveraging technology and rela�vely frugal capital

to promote entrepreneurship among young people, among self-driven men

and women, and among farmers looking for a wider market for their

produce. Our space programme is launching satellites for several friendly

countries and providing invaluable data on weather and soil pa�erns for

those of our ci�zens engaged in agriculture. We are preparing to send an

Indian into space. India will be happy to share its developmental

experiences with Vietnam as per your country's priori�es.

Such ideals shape India's interna�onal coopera�on. Take the challenge of

climate change. It poses a danger to all humankind, but coastal na�ons such

as India and Vietnam feel the pressure that much more. While many steps

are needed, a push towards renewable energy is essen�al. It is with this in

mind that India hosted the founding conference of the Interna�onal Solar

Alliance earlier this year. The ISA is an interna�onal body headquartered in

India but with implica�ons for our en�re planet. I invite Vietnam to become

an ac�ve part of the ISA family.

Climate change is not the only ques�on mark looming before the Indo-

Pacific Region. This ocean system is a resource for Vietnam and India and for

so many other countries and communi�es. Vietnam and India share a vision

for the Indo-Pacific Region, of which the South China Sea is a cri�cal

component. We share a vision of a rules-based order that respects

sovereignty and territorial integrity, ensures freedom of naviga�on and

over-flight, as well as unimpeded commerce. Our shared vision seeks

peaceful resolu�on of disputes, with full respect for legal and diploma�c

processes in accordance with principles of interna�onal law, including

those reflected in the United Na�ons Conven�on on the Law of the Sea.

In this context, India looks forward to enhanced bilateral coopera�on in the

mari�me domain – for instance, through our first Bilateral Mari�me Security

Dialogue to be hosted by Vietnam in early 2019. Mari�me security, piracy, and

drug trafficking using oceans are issues of common concern. I am confident

that the programme of regular and friendly visits to each other's ports by

naval and coast guard ships from our countries will upgrade coopera�on.

94

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

Such confidence is only enhanced by the knowledge that Vietnam will be

taking over the ASEAN Chair in 2020. India has consistently supported

ASEAN's unity and centrality and ASEAN-led mechanisms for regional

security and economic architecture – to promote peace and prosperity in

the Indo-Pacific Region. India offers a coopera�on model that does not

require its friends to make choices but rather expands choices and

opportuni�es for all; that opens not one but many roads.

Beyond our region, India and Vietnam remain commi�ed to coopera�on in

areas of emerging risk such as cyber-security, and in mul�lateral

organisa�ons. Hard-won gains of interna�onal governance and of

globalisa�on must be nurtured. The world community must respond

collec�vely to worldwide challenges. India is thankful to Vietnam for its

support in building consensus for an early adop�on of a Comprehensive

Conven�on on Interna�onal Terrorism at the United Na�ons.

At the root of India's and Vietnam's na�onal endeavours are the aspira�ons

and the prosperity of our people. Enhancing business rela�ons and physical

connec�vity between our countries is vital

for this. We are both dynamic economies.

Vietnam has had an impressive, export-

driven growth, and India is today the

world's fastest growing large economy.

Bilateral trade touched US$ 12.8 billion in

the past year and India is one of Vietnam's

top 10 trading partners. For India too,

Vietnam and ASEAN are crucial to its trade

basket. A high-level business delega�on is

accompanying me. Yesterday I addressed

the Vietnam-India Business Forum. I am

certain that enterprising businesspersons

from our countries will help us reach new

trade benchmarks.

There is scope for coopera�on and

complementari�es in tex�les and agriculture and agricultural technologies,

in biotech and IT, in energy and pharmaceu�cals, and in infrastructure and

minerals. Indian investors, manufacturers and service providers look to

Vietnam with much excitement.

And so do, I must say, the rest of the people of India. Back home,

Vietnamese food is becoming more and more popular – and a society of tea

drinkers have acquired a taste for Vietnamese coffee. I am keen that

95

INDIA AND VIETNAM - A SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP

““ In the ul�mate

analysis, the people-to-

people network between

Vietnam and India – an

inheritor of one of the

oldest people-to-people

networks in Asia and the

Indo-Pacific – is the

founda�on and the edifice

of our partnership

tourism between Vietnam and India expands and direct flights in the period

ahead help more and more of our ci�zens to visit each other's countries. In

the ul�mate analysis, the people-to-people network between Vietnam and

India – an inheritor of one of the oldest people-to-people networks in Asia

and the Indo-Pacific – is the founda�on and the edifice of our partnership.

With those words, and with a renewed thank you to Madam Chairperson

and the members of this Assembly for having hosted me, I conclude my

address. May the wisdom of Lord Buddha and may his message of

embracing compassion and coopera�on con�nue to guide our people, our

countries and our shared oceanic region.

A Special address at the Na�onal Assembly of Vietnam in Hanoi on November 20, 2018

96

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

Iam happy to speak at the Australian Financial Review India Business

Summit. I thank the organisers for the invita�on to address Australia's

leading businesspersons and thought leaders. This is my first visit to

your country in my capacity as the President of India and I am thankful for

the wonderful recep�on accorded by the Governor-General, the Prime

Minister and the government and people of Australia. Coming to this

beau�ful city and savouring its scenic harbour, it has been easy to

understand why people are so quickly charmed by Sydney – and

by Australia.

I must acknowledge the presence of Prime

Minister Sco� Morrison. I appreciate his

leadership of Australia and commitment to

the rela�onship with India, as well as his

encouraging words on the recently

released “India Economic Strategy”. About

a week ago, in Singapore, he met our Prime

Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, and my visit

takes forward our dialogue, discussion and

coopera�on. I gather that Prime Minister

Morrison has a taste for Indian food and in

fact cooks a mean curry. I am sure he can

help us come up with a recipe for even

be�er Australia-India rela�ons.

Australia and India are united by a history

of shared sacrifice on the beaches of

Gallipoli; a shared vision for the peace and

prosperity of a free, open and rules-based

Indo-Pacific Region; a shared ins�nct for entrepreneurship; a shared hope

for a prosperous and yet eco-friendly and environmentally sustainable

planet; and a shared passion for cricket. For many Indian cricket fans,

Australia is their favourite team – except when you are playing India but

especially when you are compe�ng for the Ashes. There are other a�ributes

we share as well – the values of democracy, pluralism and human dignity,

the English language – and the belief that at the simplest, basic level,

business, trade and technology must change lives of those sec�ons of

society who need change the most.

A READY PITCH: INDIA-AUSTRALIA BUSINESS RELATIONS

97

““ Australia and India

are united by a history of

shared sacrifice on the

beaches of Gallipoli; a shared

vision for the peace and

prosperity of a free, open

and rules-based Indo-Pacific

Region; a shared ins�nct for

entrepreneurship; a shared

hope for a prosperous and

yet eco-friendly and

environmentally sustainable

planet; and a shared passion

for cricket

Our countries have been among the beneficiaries of globalisa�on.

Australia's economy has expanded strongly in the past quarter-century. In

this period, India's economic integra�on with the global business system too

has strengthened. In the ul�mate analysis, a process such as globalisa�on is

most meaningful when it helps the range of global stakeholders – from

interna�onal corpora�ons to local communi�es, whether in Australia or

India. In recent years, India has renewed its commitment to a liberal,

transparent and globalised economy. In terms of openness to foreign capital

and interna�onal investors, India is in the top league. Business sector a�er

business sector, from avia�on to mining to defence produc�on, has had

doors thrown open to global players and investors.

Such steps have been complemented by other ini�a�ves at home. India is in

the midst of an infrastructure push of unusual urgency. A determined

accre�on in highway construc�on; a na�onwide urban and rural broadband

rollout; crea�ng new railway and freight corridors; an ambi�ous

programme of modernising ports; high-speed train networks in major

urban centres; expanding air connec�vity using upgraded as well as

greenfield airports; industrial corridors that are gathering momentum – the

buzz of construc�on is everywhere. Large cranes and armies of workers in

hard hats dot the Indian landscape. India is in business.

India's growth is different from that of many others. We are the first major

country that is seeking to make that leap into industrialisa�on while also

comba�ng climate change, and while reducing the intensity of dependence

on fossil fuels. I will not bore you with sta�s�cs – in the context of India, they

are always large and impressive – but there is one number I want to share

with you. India has set itself a target of 175 gigawa�s of renewable energy

by 2022, of which 100 gigawa�s will comprise solar energy. We are on

course to not just achieving that target but exceeding it.

Fiscal and regulatory processes have also been significantly revamped. A

li�le over a year ago India inaugurated the Goods and Services Tax regime.

This has brought the 29 states of our country on a common tax pla�orm. It is

already making for a cleaner and more structured business system. In

parallel, on the World Bank Ease of Doing Business Index India has moved

up from a rank of 142 in 2014 to 77 in 2018. This 65 step jump is the biggest

for any single country.

All of these measures – fiscal and regulatory, infrastructure promo�on and

investment policy – are aimed at making India even more of a hub for new,

exci�ng and global businesses. These could be in manufacturing and

services, in agricultural industries as well as emerging technologies. Our

98

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

Make in India programme is gathering pace. It aims to promote India as a

design, fabrica�on and manufacture loca�on – not in isola�on, for that is

neither possible nor desirable, but as part of global and Indo-Pacific value

chains. I am happy to note that mass-transit rail coaches made in India have

recently been exported to Australia. From tex�les to automobiles there are

so many other made-in-India products in which we could interest you.

The interna�onal business community has responded to India's

achievements with appreciable investment. In financial year 2017-18, India

drew about USD 62 billion. This was an acknowledgement of India's honest

and reformist efforts – and of its high GDP growth. In the previous quarter,

for instance, our economy grew by 8.2 per cent.

An underlying theme of economic and social transforma�on in India is the

role of technology and innova�on. India's tradi�onal strength in IT is well-

known. There are many Indian IT companies that have invested in Australia

itself, adding value to companies and clients here and employing young

Australians. In India, technology is acquiring a wider base and climbing up

the chain. A start-up culture, the world's third largest, has made

entrepreneurs out of young students and led to businesses being incubated

on campuses, in small homes, and even li�le farms, where the farmer is

using her excess produce to nego�ate a be�er price in a larger market.

Inevitably, India's digital economy, its e-commerce companies, its

technology start-ups and its fin-tech innovators are a�rac�ng FDI.

Frankly the big country and friend that we are not seeing as much of in the

India investment story, is Australia. This is a gap we need to address.

Australia and India have too much at stake in each other to not up their

game. We can collaborate and benefit from each other's exper�se in fin-

tech and logis�cs, in industrial design and biotech, in the capital markets

and in farm-to-fork management of the food chain – even in space tech and

satellite launch services, where India's long-standing space programme will

be happy to support the new Australian Space Agency. It's not that

Australian companies are not present in India – it's just that there is s�ll

enormous room for us to work together.

The Indian market offers Australian companies and investors a huge

consumer base and the prospect of considerable returns. Australian super-

funds or pension funds have a reputa�on for careful, calibrated investment

decisions. They will find the Indian infrastructure space worth their while –

with long-term investments, steady to high returns, confidence in growing

consump�on, and security in contractual adherence. Let us put our heads

together and create investment products that work for Australian super-

99

A READY PITCH – INDIA-AUSTRALIA BUSINESS RELATIONS

funds and Indian infrastructure and that work for Australian pensioners and

Indian consumers – and that lead to a win-win situa�on.

Along with investment, bilateral trade numbers have grown but remain

below poten�al. India-Australia trade was valued at about US$ 21 billion in

2017. Our trade basket must grow. I am confident that we will make progress

on the Australia-India Comprehensive Economic Coopera�on Agreement. In

the recent Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership mee�ng held in

Singapore, India and Australia, along with the other nego�a�ng partners,

made significant progress. India is posi�vely and construc�vely engaging in

the nego�a�ons and will contribute to the conclusion of RCEP by 2019. India

looks forward to a balanced outcome that results in a modern,

comprehensive and mutually beneficial economic Partnership.

In many senses, society is already ahead of governments. The Indian

community in Australia is adding value to the economy. The Indian diaspora

has a reputa�on for contribu�ng to local business ecosystems and opening

job and innova�on avenues for its host country. Silicon Valley is a case in point.

I have been told that here in Australia, India-born migrants are the second-

highest tax-paying diaspora a�er United Kingdom born migrants. That must

please the Prime Minister. And in India too, Australians are a growing part of

the workforce in fields as far apart as so�ware and entertainment. The Indian

Premier League, perhaps the ho�est cricket start-up of all �me, recruits many

high-performing and highly-paid cricket professionals from Australia –

players, coaches and support staff. In their own way, the Indians in Australia

and the Australians in India are showing us the future.

They say cricket is a metaphor for life. I believe it is also a metaphor for

business. Australian businesspersons and investors looking to India should

borrow from the methods of cricketers. The most successful Australian

batsmen in India have been those who have shown pa�ence, read the

condi�ons carefully, se�led down for a long innings, nurtured dependable

partnerships – and have not fallen for spin.

Come to India. The pitch is ready!

Address at the Australian Financial Review India Business Summit in Sydney on

November 22, 2018

100

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

Iam grateful to you, Mr President, for your warm words of welcome.

Allow me to express my deep apprecia�on for your generosity and for

the hospitality that has been accorded to me, my wife and my

delega�on. We are all deeply touched and we do feel at home.

I am par�cularly honoured to be your first state guest a�er you assumed

office as the President of Myanmar.

Your beau�ful country has a special place in our hearts. We are bound

together by shared waters, forests and hills, by culture, cuisine, language

and history. And more profoundly, by the blessings of Lord Buddha. These

are the bedrock of our rela�onship, which provide it strength and a unique

emo�onal connect.

Our people have much to cherish and celebrate, of our special �es and

friendship. The vibrant Indian-origin community, who have made Myanmar

their home, are an organic link between us. Our an�-colonial struggles and

our shared aspira�ons bring us together as well. We gave home to each

other when force and fate defeated us. King Thibaw spent his days in

Ratnagiri and Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar in Yangon. We have, indeed,

been friends in prosperity and as much in adversity.

The propaga�on of vipassana in the modern era, a medita�on technique

developed and prac�ced by Lord Buddha himself, owes so much to the

pioneering work of Satya Narayan Goenka, who received his ini�al lessons

from Sayagyi U Ba Khin. And of course, we fondly remember Daw Tint Tint,

or Usha Narayanan, the daughter of Myanmar, who became the First Lady

of India.

Our discussions today convinced me that our �es can only get closer and

more intense from here. Both sides are working �relessly to enhance the

intensity of our bilateral engagement through increased connec�vity,

capacity-building and growing commercial and cultural exchanges.

In India, we are aware of the challenges Myanmar faces in taking forward

the peace process, na�onal reconcilia�on and economic recovery. I want to

say to you that the Government and people of India stand by you. We are in

full support of your peace process and in preserving the unity and territorial

integrity of Myanmar—all of which are fundamentally in our own interests

as well. For without that, India cannot succeed in its effort to bring

INDIA AND MYANMAR: A TIMELESS FRIENDSHIP

101

development, prosperity and connec�vity to our ci�zens in the Northeast,

which borders Myanmar.

Therefore, because our des�nies are intertwined and interlinked, our

friendship is driven not by short term goals, but by a larger and las�ng quest

for mutual peace, progress and prosperity. And our partnership with

Myanmar is at that important intersec�on between friendship,

neighbourhood and shared core interests.

With those words, I propose a toast to the good health and personal well-

being of the President of Myanmar, the First Lady and the State Counsellor;

the peace, progress and prosperity of the people of Myanmar; and the

�meless friendship and ever-growing closeness between India and Myanmar.

Address at a banquet hosted in his honour in Nay Pyi Taw on December 11, 2018

102

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

Thank you for your warm and special welcome. The depth of

Gandhiji's favourite bhajan is ever more upli�ing, and the melody

of Bollywood always more enjoyable, and more so when it

celebrates our togetherness and our familial �es.

I bring you gree�ngs from the land of Lord Buddha. May his noble teachings

and wisdom con�nue to guide us through daily life, and lead us on the path

to enlightenment.

I also bring you good wishes of 1.3 billion ci�zens of the world's largest

democracy, and of friends and families in India. Myanmar has embarked on

an exci�ng but challenging journey. I am here to reassure Myanmar that

India is always ready to help it fulfill its aspira�ons for a brighter future.

I am delighted to be among so many people of Indian origin and Indian

expatriates. All of you, through your hard work and dedica�on, have made a

mark for yourself. You are proud ci�zens of this na�on and are contribu�ng

to its na�on-building and progress. And you have upheld your culture,

values and ethos, while adap�ng to local customs. In doing so, you have

enriched the cultural fabric of this beau�ful country and its special people.

In preserving your tradi�ons, you have been a torchbearer of Indian culture

and values. You have, indeed, nurtured India's rela�onship with this country,

some�mes by connec�ng people, some�mes by facilita�ng businesses and

some�mes by guiding the pious on a spiritual journey to India.

This is my first visit to Myanmar. It is both a pilgrimage and a homecoming.

This country has a proud, millennia-old tradi�on of Buddhist thought and

philosophy. It is home to one of the leading schools of Buddhism.

At the same �me, Myanmar, like India, is an enormously diverse country,

with different ethnici�es and faiths coexis�ng here. And our shared

civilisa�onal ethos shows us that all faiths share fundamental truths, which

guide all of us. We have always understood, as a philosopher of religions

said, that "It is possible to climb life's mountain from any side, but when the

top is reached, the trails converge".

Myanmar is today undergoing mul�ple and simultaneous transi�ons towards

democracy, peace and economic development. Success here under the

courageous leadership of State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, is important

for this country, for South Asia and the ASEAN family and for the world.

As a sister democracy and a civilisa�onal friend, India is fully conscious of

the challenges Myanmar faces. Over 70 years, we have put in place systems

PRIORITISING THE NEIGHBOURHOOD

103

and structures of governance that have enabled diversity to serve the cause

of na�onal progress. And since this is based on our civilisa�onal ethos, we

have made significant strides in this regard.

It is in this spirit of good neighbourly coopera�on that we are ready to offer

Myanmar any assistance in addressing the challenges of na�onal

reconcilia�on, reconstruc�on and economic development.

Today, we are all faced with a daun�ng combina�on of tradi�onal and non-

tradi�onal threats. Terrorism and violent extremism are among the biggest

dangers to humankind. Democracies, especially diverse ones, are

par�cularly vulnerable.

The world is also faced with threats to its energy and food security, climate

change, pandemics and recurring humanitarian disasters. Global

commons, such as outer space, the high seas and cyber space, witness

more compe��on.

No country is immune to these challenges. Equally, no single country can

address them by itself. We must all share capaci�es and choose coopera�on

over confronta�on and must transcend differences that divide us. And we

must recognise that values of humanity, equality and kindness unite us and

lead us toward meaningful coopera�on.

These values are the essence of Buddhist thought, and are part of our

shared cultures. They resonate in the Mahabharata, which asks us to

conquer anger by calmness, evil by good, and falsehood by truth. In India,

this ancient wisdom was channelised by Mahatma Gandhi into satyagraha,

which inspired our nonviolent struggle for freedom. Gandhiji, whose 150th

birth anniversary celebra�ons we started recently, demonstrated how

nonviolent means can drive poli�cal change. Indeed, independent India

built its foreign policy on this idea, underlining the centrality of peace,

friendship and renuncia�on of violence.

Today, the central tenets of our foreign policy are guided by recogni�on that

the road to development runs through the region. It is for this reason that

both the "Act East" and "Neighbourhood First" policies are key aspects of

our foreign policy. Both priori�se our immediate environments, and

Myanmar is a focus country in both. These policies have helped India adjust

to a world where our country is not only one of the leading economies, but

is also enabling its neighbours to engage in partnerships for growth and

development. Such opportuni�es have expanded beyond trade and

investment to energy and electrical grids, communica�ons and transport,

and people-to-people �es.

104

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

Lately, development coopera�on has

become an important part of India's

rela�ons, especially in our neighbourhood.

Today we share our exper�se with

neighbours and others including by building

infrastructure, crea�ng capacity, and se�ng

up ins�tu�ons. We do so in the convic�on

that a peaceful, prosperous and stable

neighbourhood is in everyone's interest.

And while implemen�ng such projects, our

approach is based on:

! Ensuring they are in line with the

priori�es of our partners;

! Ensuring they respect the rule of law

and good governance;

! Insis�ng on transparency, and commi�ng to transfer skills and

technologies to local communi�es;

! Making sure they are environmentally and socially-responsible; and,

most importantly,

! Ensuring they do not create unsustainable burdens.

These precepts are essen�al parameters of responsible project

development. I am glad that our bilateral coopera�on is designed in

accordance with these principles.

During my mee�ngs yesterday with the President and the State Counsellor, I

reiterated India's full support for Myanmar's efforts to achieve peace,

na�onal reconcilia�on and economic development.

India is a witness to the Na�onwide Ceasefire Agreement; we are in full

support of efforts to make it more inclusive. We support a peaceful dialogue

between all stakeholders based on jus�ce, equality and dignity. We also fully

respect the unity and territorial integrity of the Republic of the Union of

Myanmar. This is based on recogni�on that in the security of Myanmar lies

our own security and the security of the larger region.

I also discussed Myanmar's development priori�es and India's efforts to

execute crucial infrastructure projects. These are progressing well on the

ground and we look forward to the con�nued facilita�on of Myanmar

authori�es to complete them on schedule. The direct and indirect economic

105

PRIORITISING THE NEIGHBOURHOOD

““ Today we share

our exper�se with

neighbours and others

including by building

infrastructure, crea�ng

capacity, and se�ng up

ins�tu�ons. We do so in

the convic�on that a

peaceful, prosperous and

stable neighbourhood is in

everyone's interest

opportuni�es created by these projects will transform these areas into

development corridors, and create prosperity in the en�re region.

Indeed, our North East and Myanmar's North West share strong

commonali�es of culture, language and tradi�ons. These regions are central

to our bilateral vision for growth, prosperity and security. A�er all, be�er

connec�vity increases people-to-people �es, expands trade and creates

prosperity. And so, our border regions, far from peripheries, are the advance

guard of our partnership.

For this to succeed, however, peace on our borders is an essen�al

prerequisite. We must pair hard infrastructure being created with so�

infrastructure of legal arrangements, like a motor vehicle agreement, for

people to travel legally and easily. This will help realise the full poten�al of

our projects.

Today, 25 years of bilateral effort to renew friendship and rediscover

linkages is bearing fruit. Here, an important role has been played by the

large expatriate Indian and Indian-origin communi�es. Among you are

many who are fi�h or sixth genera�on PIOs. Yours is a community known for

its peace-loving and law-abiding nature. You add value to the development

of Myanmar through your hard work.

I salute you for your spirit, pluralism, industry and dedica�on and, most of

all, for your progressive a�tude. No ma�er the country that PIOs are ci�zens

of, and wherever Indians are, their ac�ons are based on core values of

Indianness: of family, fraternity, dialogue, hard work, educa�on, and service.

But today in Myanmar, we must do more. Our youth need to celebrate the

�es that bind our civilisa�ons together. They need to learn of our struggles

against colonialism. They need to be told about Satguru Ram Singh, Bal

Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai and Netaji Subash Chandra Bose, who were

jailed here by the Bri�sh. They need to learn how Mahatma Gandhi's vision

impacted on the independence movement in Myanmar. And they need to

be told how Shri Satya Narayan Goenka took lessons from Sayagyi U Ba Khin,

before taking vipassana to the world.

Only when we understand our history, can we take full advantage of each

other's capabili�es. We must turn towards each other with greater resolve

to work together. And the rising �de of India's growth increases our capacity

to do more. You must connect with the transforma�onal changes

happening in India and see how you can bring its energy and value to

Myanmar, and in the process help both to grow and develop.

106

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

In a month's �me, we will celebrate the Pravasi Bhara�ya Divas, where we

recognise the great contribu�ons made by all of you. I urge you to

par�cipate at this Conven�on in the historic city of Varanasi to be held from st rd21 to 23 January 2019. Today, India is full of opportuni�es for business,

social enterprise and cultural links. India is at the cusp of transforma�ve

change. I invite each one of you to join us in this journey, and to make this

partnership more meaningful.

Address at the Indian Community recep�on in Yangon on December 12, 2018

107

PRIORITISING THE NEIGHBOURHOOD

tham delighted to be amongst you at the Closing Session of the 15 IPravasi Bhara�ya Divas Conven�on. I have met some of you in different

parts of the world, but to be with you on this occasion is, indeed,

special. The august presence of our Chief Guest, Prime Minister Jugnauth,

makes it even more so, and a�ests to the unique �es that we share with

Mauri�us. I am happy to have conferred the Pravasi Bhara�ya Samman on

30 members of our Diaspora. We value your commi�ed efforts to promote

India and to work for the welfare of Indian community abroad. You have,

indeed, been a living bridge between us and the outside world. I

congratulate each one of you for this stellar contribu�on.

As you know, India has been a land of fes�vi�es, celebra�ons and human

excellence for centuries. Its cultural fabric and ethos have been enriched

with each passing phase of its history. And to that, we added a new chapter

when we embarked on a journey to connect and embrace our brothers and

sisters around the world. That was in 2003, when we held the first Pravasi

Bhara�ya Divas, and the man behind this vision was our then Prime

Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayeeji. We lost him recently but his thought

and wisdom con�nue to guide the na�on.

thThe 15 Pravasi Bhara�ya Divas celebra�on is special, and for several reasons. thThis year, we are marking the 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi,

whom we consider our greatest pravasi and in whose honour we have chosen th9 January as the Indian Diaspora Day to be celebrated each year. It is also the

first �me that we are hos�ng this fes�vity in Varanasi, a city which is so much

part of our lives - our thought, our beliefs, our music and dance, and our

spirituality. And as we talk of Varanasi, there is yet another facet that we must

recollect. The ghats of this ancient city and its surroundings have been

witness to one of the most poignant epochs of our diasporic history. For

Prime Minister Jugnauth and many others, whose forefathers hailed from a

place not far from here, this visit would, indeed, be a special one. In a sense,

in this Conven�on Hall, the journey undertaken centuries ago, has come a full

circle today. There would s�ll be others who would find it fulfilling to connect

to their roots through the eclec�c ethos of this �meless city.

From here, many of you would be travelling to the Kumbh to be blessed by

the Sangam. And days later, you would witness the onward march of our

Republic as a modern na�on. I am sure we could not have asked for a more

joyous fes�val! I hope you enjoy every moment of it.

CELEBRATING A DIVERSE AND DISTINGUISHED DIASPORA

108

We are living in an age of rapid changes. The youth is in the forefront of

these developments. I am happy that we had a special focus on the youth in

this fes�val. We must listen to them and to their ideas, to make our bonds

deeper and stronger. I am pleased that two of the youngest diaspora

leaders, Mr. Himanshu Gula�, Member of Parliament from Norway and Mr.

Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, Member of Parliament from New Zealand

par�cipated in this Conven�on as Special Guests at the Youth Pravasi Divas.

The Indian Diaspora is among the largest in

the world and its history is rich and

diverse. In the hoary past, our ancestors

travelled to Southeast Asia as merchants

and as monks. Much later, many lived and

prospered as traders and entrepreneurs

along the ancient Silk Route. And more

than a century ago, under the indenture

system, we witnessed millions of our

people crossing the seven seas. The world

has moved a long way since for our

Diaspora. You are reaching heights globally

today, while embracing your cultural ethos

and diversity. And while you do so, you

must also preserve and strengthen your

unity as a community.

Your success and hard work have set an

example which many want to emulate.

The communi�es that you live in, count on

your enterprise and skills; the countries

that you reside in, are proud of your

ci�zenship; and the world-at-large turns

to your ingenuity when faced with intractable challenges. We count each

one of you as our cultural ambassador. You are the face of India and its

iden�ty abroad. We are, indeed, proud of you and your achievements. But

what really makes your contribu�ons standout are the values that you

espouse and live for. These are values that intrinsically remain Indian,

drawn from millennia of thought and progress, and which are firmly

anchored in our age-old belief of Vasudhaiva Kutumbamkam that is – “the

World is One Family”.

The last few years have seen a sea-change in the way we engage our people

abroad. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has

worked hard to connect its 1.3 billion people with its 31 million strong

109

CELEBRATING A DIVERSE AND DISTINGUISHED DIASPORA

““

The Indian Diaspora is

among the largest in the

world and its history is rich

and diverse. In the hoary

past, our ancestors travelled

to Southeast Asia as

merchants and as monks.

Much later, many lived and

prospered as traders and

entrepreneurs along the

ancient Silk Route. And more

than a century ago, under

the indenture system, we

witnessed millions of our

people crossing the

seven seas

Diaspora. New programmes have been established to bring Indians and

Indian-origin people living abroad closer to our hearts and minds. Projects

such as the Know India Programme and the Bharat Ko Janiye quiz have

ins�lled our youth with a new sense of confidence in their motherland. They

want to strengthen their connect with India, for emo�onal and cultural

reasons, but increasingly for other persuasive reasons too. The breakthroughs

happening in India in the fields of innova�on, research, start-ups and digital

revolu�on are a�rac�ng people from far and wide. To give this pull a concrete

shape, we have started Experience the Scien�fic India Programme for our

young Diaspora scien�sts. We want them to become a bridge between us and

the world so that we can cross-pollinate and enrich each other.

While giving a new meaning to our umbilical connect, we have also taken

measures to improve the “Ease of Travel” and the “Ease of Living abroad”

for our people. Today, under the able guidance of our External Affairs

Minister Smt. Sushma Swaraj, our Embassies and Consulates are available

24 by 7 to help those in need. We have brought the benefits of the digital

world to their doorstep through E-Visa, Passport App, MADAD and e-

migrate pla�orms. Likewise, we have employed social media tools, from

Twi�er to Facebook, to reach out and help. Our visa, passport and OCI

110

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

Address at the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention

services have been made flexible, for the benefit of many. For our

professionals, we have entered into Social Security Agreements with a large

number of countries, so that their financial contribu�ons are protected.

And for our migrant workers, we have started skilling programmes and pre-

departure training to enhance their income and to ensure their wellbeing.

At the same �me, we remain deeply commi�ed to the safety and security of

the Indian community abroad. In the last 4 years, our government has

rescued over 90,000 Indians caught in poli�cal strife or natural disasters.

We have also facilitated the return of over 94,000 Indians during Amnesty

schemes in the Gulf countries. As a result of these ac�ons and assurances,

our Diaspora has a new confidence in the country and in the government.

India is going through a transforma�on of unprecedented scale. The Indian

story today is one of inclusivity and progress. From economic growth to

economic reforms, from women emancipa�on to women empowerment,

from Health for All to Total Sanita�on, and from Space Mission to Digital

Revolu�on, we are leading the way on many fronts. Our socio-economic

achievements are helping the Sustainable Development Goals, and our

growth, powering the global economic engine. We have put ourselves in ththe forefront of the 4 Industrial Revolu�on, and through the Interna�onal

Solar Alliance, we are leading the world in comba�ng Climate Change.

India is a land of billion ideas and a billion opportuni�es. I invite each one of

you to become a part of India's growth story which is being etched by its

billion minds. We want to leverage your technology, knowhow and

investment to power our Make in India, Digital India, Clean India and Skill

India programmes. We count on your convening strength to encourage

people to visit India as knowledge-providers and as tourists. And we want

more and more of you to connect with your ancestral villages and towns.

We want to change the brain-drain of yesterday to brain-gain of today. I

once again call upon you to contribute and partner us in the New India that

we are commi�ed to build and to become a part of India's history in making.

With these words, I thank you for making the Pravasi Bhara�ya Divas a

success. I wish all of you a prosperous and enriching year ahead. And I

eagerly look forward to your par�cipa�on in the Republic day Parade.

thAddress at the valedictory session of the 15 Pravasi Bhara�ya Divas on

January 23, 2019.

111

CELEBRATING A DIVERSE AND DISTINGUISHED DIASPORA

112

It is an honour for me to welcome you Mr. President and Madam First

Lady on your first State Visit to India. Your visit comes at a very special

moment. We are celebra�ng the 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma th

Gandhi and the 100 birth anniversary of Nelson Mandela. For our two th

leaders, who walked parallel poli�cal pathways, this coincidence could not

bring a sharper focus on the shared legacy they have le� behind for us and

for humanity.

And as we talk of their lives, I must recall what Mahatma Gandhi said while

leaving South Africa for good – and I quote- “This subcon�nent has become

to me a sacred and dear land, next only to my motherland. I leave the shores

of South Africa with a heavy heart, and the distance that will now separate

me from South Africa, will but, draw me closer to it, and its welfare will

always be a ma�er of great concern.” - unquote. These prophe�c words

have con�nued to guide us, as we work to enhance and deepen our special

friendship and our strategic partnership.

Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela belong not just to India and South thAfrica, but to the en�re world. To commemorate the 150 birth anniversary

of Mahatma Gandhi, we have launched an ar�ficial limb fitment

programme - “India for Humanity”. In doing so, we are inspired by his

universal message and as much by the South African spirit of “Ubuntu”, that

is - the spirit of humanity and compassion towards others.

Our economic partnership is a key pillar of our rela�onship. Indian Industry

is much enthused by your economic policies and approach. On our part, we

have undertaken path-breaking economic reforms to a�ract interna�onal

businesses and to propel our growth. We invite South African companies to

partner us in Make In India, Digital India, Clean India and Smart City

programmes. And we invite new-age stakeholders, from innovators to

incubators, from start-ups to entrepreneurs, to join our partnership.

thWe must also work to capitalise on the opportuni�es posed by the 4

Industrial Revolu�on. The digital world has much to offer to our people. I am

happy that soon we would be able to share with you and with other

countries in Africa the benefits of our tele-medicine and tele-educa�on

programmes: e-Vidya-Bhara� and e-Aarogya-Bhara�.

Your Rainbow na�on has a colourful slice of India and our mul�cultural

fabric several weaves of South Africa. From cuisine to cricket, and from

DEEPENING A SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP AND A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP:

INDIA AND SOUTH AFRICA

baboo�e to biryani, there is much that our people share and relish. Let us

con�nue to celebrate our shared heritage and our values.

I offer my warm congratula�ons to South Africa as you now sit on the United

Na�ons Security Council for the third �me. We will work with you to make the

UN more effec�ve, equitable, and reflec�ve of today's reali�es. We will also

work together for a just, representa�ve and democra�c global order that has

a voice and a role for one-third of humanity that lives in Africa and India.

On that promising note, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, I invite you to

join me in raising a toast to the good health and wellbeing of President

Ramaphosa and Dr. Motsepe; the con�nued progress and prosperity of the

people of South Africa; and the everlas�ng friendship between India and

South Africa.

Address at the banquet hosted in the honour of the President of South Africa, Mr.

Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan in New Delhi on January 25, 2019

113

DEEPENING A SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP AND A

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP – INDIA AND SOUTH AFRICA

Iwarmly welcome you, Mr. President and your esteemed delega�on on

your State Visit to India. This is a special year for our bilateral �es. We

are celebra�ng 70 years of our diploma�c rela�ons. We are, indeed,

honoured that you have chosen to visit us on this momentous occasion.

thThis year we will celebrate the 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi,

the Father of our Na�on. We deeply appreciate the respect that your

country and people have shown to his life and legacy. I recall Argen�ne

President Dr. Arturo Frondizi, the first Head of State from La�n America to

have visited India, in 1961, who told us that while in prison he read the

autobiography of Mahatma Gandhi, for inspira�on, hope and sustenance.

Mr. President, we are equally delighted to learn of your personal

admira�on of Mahatma Gandhi. It strengthens our collec�ve belief in his

universal legacy, and those of San Mar�n, whom we have given a

permanent place in our hearts and in our Capital.

An even older connect between our two countries was forged by Gurudev

Rabindranath Tagore when he visited Argen�na in 1924. The days he spent

in Argen�na and the enriching delibera�ons he had with Victoria Ocampo

have been so beau�fully captured in the

film 'Thinking of Him'.

We may be located in con�nents afar but

our people and ideas have brought us

close. We understand the depth of your

intellectual tradi�ons, of Borges and

Carlos Gardel, and you the introspec�on

of our philosophy, of Bhagavad Gita and

Yoga. We are beholden by the skills of

Maradona and Messi, and you by the

magic of Bollywood. The embrace of the

Tango and the Tabla could not be warmer!

Over the last 70 years, our engagement in

various spheres of human endeavour has

grown several-fold. Trade and technology,

agriculture and Antarc�c science, cyberspace and satellites are propelling

our rela�ons. India's transforma�ve growth and Argen�ne capabili�es are

crea�ng new opportuni�es for us. We are both commi�ed to South-South

ENHANCING BILATERAL TIES: INDIA AND ARGENTINA

114

““ Trade and

technology, agriculture

and Antarc�c science,

cyberspace and satellites

are propelling our

rela�ons. India's

transforma�ve growth

and Argen�ne capabili�es

are crea�ng new

opportuni�es for us

solidarity and we are together working to create more space for our people

in global governance. In this context, India looks forward to contribu�ng

meaningfully to the “Review of the Buenos Aires Plan of Ac�on” next month.

Our mul�lateral partnership is bearing results. I commend your leadership

of the G-20. We also remain grateful to you for suppor�ng our accession to

the various technology regimes and for standing by us for our membership

of the Nuclear Suppliers Group. And as we both reinforce our pledge to

tackle climate change, I am happy that we will work as a team to strengthen

the Interna�onal Solar Alliance.

Terrorism poses the gravest threat to humanity today. As long-standing

friends and trusted partners, we must come together, firmly and decisively, to

destroy and defeat terrorism, to protect our present and to secure our future.

We are both polo playing na�ons, and world-beaters in the game of hockey.

I am delighted that we have today commi�ed to bring the energy and

enthusiasm of the spor�ng arena to the bilateral turf! May our Strategic

Partnership bring peace and progress for one and all. On that op�mis�c

note Excellencies, I propose a toast to the good health and well-being of the

President and First Lady of Argen�na; the prosperity of the people of

Argen�na; and the ever-las�ng friendship between India and Argen�na.

Address at the banquet hosted in the honour of the President of the Republic of

Argen�na at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan on February 18, 2019

115

ENHANCING BILATERAL TIES – INDIA AND ARGENTINA

It is with great pleasure I warmly welcome Your Royal Highness and your

dis�nguished delega�on to India. We fondly remember the historic

visits of the Custodian of Two Holy Mosques, His Majesty King Abdullah

in 2006 and His Majesty King Salman in 2014 to New Delhi.

The visit of our Prime Minister in 2016 to Saudi Arabia has further expanded

our Strategic Partnership. Your Royal Highness, our two countries have rich

historical connec�ons based on shared civilisa�onal linkages. These

affini�es find expression in ever growing economic exchanges and vibrant

people-to-people contacts. We deeply appreciate your special gesture of

invi�ng India as the 'Guest of Honour' at Janadriyah 2018.

The depth of our engagement has, indeed,

been vast and immeasurable. The stories and

fables of India reached the shores of Arabia

and from you to other parts of the world. It is

the Arab mind that the world remains

indebted to in so many different fields of arts

and science. The Arab intellect ever vigorous,

exploratory and quick to absorb knowledge,

translated the “Panchtantra” into the “Kalila

Wa Dimna”, and other such works. In return,

the monsoon, derived from the Arabic word

“mausim” brought for our people the

scholarship and brotherhood of their Arab

friends. The book Ajaib-al-Hind contains so

many accounts of our merchants and

traders, philosophers and mendicants, of their togetherness and

interac�ons, as they crisscrossed the vast Indian Ocean. The birth of the

modern world owes a lot to this historical engagement between our peoples.

Based on the richness of our age-old �es, our people, from diverse

backgrounds, have over the ages, lived in peace and harmony. Our shared

cultural experiences, economic synergies and common quest for a peaceful

and sustainable world make us natural partners. We deeply appreciate your

efforts to bring social change and progress, especially among the youth and

women in your country.

India deeply values Saudi Arabia as a reliable partner for its energy security.

We welcome your par�cipa�on in our Strategic Petroleum Reserves. We

INDIA–SAUDI ARABIA: SHARED CIVILISATIONAL LINKAGES

116

““ Our two countries

have rich historical con-

nec�ons based on shared

civilisa�onal linkages.

These affini�es find

expression in ever growing

economic exchanges and

vibrant people-to-people

contacts

are equally delighted at Aramco's par�cipa�on in the upcoming world's

largest greenfield oil refinery. And we thank you for joining the

Interna�onal Solar Alliance.

We look at Saudi Arabia as a factor of stability in the region and beyond and

appreciate your visionary leadership to diversify the economy. We welcome

your 'Vision 2030' programme. Let me assure that India wishes to be a

strong and reliable partner for the Kingdom's growth and progress. Our

companies have invested in and created jobs in Saudi Arabia, especially in

the technology sector, which is India's strength. We also welcome your

commitment to strengthen your presence in our growth story, in our Make

in India, Skill India, Digital India, Start-up India programmes, and our next-

genera�on infrastructure projects. Terrorism is the gravest threat to

humanity today. We thank you for your strong condemna�on of the

barbaric terror a�ack in Pulwama, and for standing by the people of India.

India and Saudi Arabia, and indeed, the global community must come

together to defeat and destroy these evil forces and combat radicalisa�on.

Those responsible for such acts have no place in our peace-loving society,

and they need to be dealt with, firmly and decisively.

The linkages between the people of our two friendly countries date back to

several millennia. Saudi Arabia has generously embraced a large number of

Indian expatriates and encouraged them to flourish and grow. Through

their hard work, professionalism and commitment to peace and progress,

they have made a significant contribu�on to your growth and prosperity.

We are confident of the con�nued support of the Government of Saudi

Arabia in ensuring their well-being and welfare.

I once again extend a very warm and special welcome to Your Royal

Highness. I am confident that your visit will herald a new chapter in our

excellent bilateral rela�ons.

Address at the banquet in honour of Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud,

Crown Prince, Vice President and Defence Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at

Rashtrapa� Bhavan on February 20, 2019

117

INDIA – SAUDI ARABIA – SHARED CIVILISATIONAL LINKAGES

Ihave great pleasure to be here this morning to address the India-

Croa�a Business Forum. I would par�cularly like to thank Madam

President for being with us today. Our joint presence underlines the

commitment both countries have to deepen our economic linkages.

I would like to thank the Croa�an Chamber of Economy, the Associated

Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India, the Confedera�on of Indian

Industry and the Federa�on of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry

for organising this business event. I am happy at the enthusias�c turnout

from both countries; some 30 companies have travelled from India to

par�cipate in this Forum.

I had produc�ve discussions yesterday with

Madam President and with Prime Minister

Plenkovic on how to take forward our mul�-

faceted bilateral �es. There is immense

poten�al to expand trade and investment

profile and establish innova�on, research

and start-up partnerships. Add to this, we

have a rich trading past to encourage and

inspire us! Many here would know of the

flourishing mercan�le connect between thDubrovnik and Goa that existed in the 16

century. Over 1000 Croa�an traders lived in

Goa shipping merchandise across con�nents

and oceans. The church of Saint Blaise in

Goa, a replica of the original in Dubrovnik,

stands tes�mony to their enterprise and prosperity.

There are s�ll other compelling factors enriching the India-Croa�a business

ecosystem. Croa�a's popularity in India has increased manifold following

Croa�an team's outstanding performance in the FIFA World Cup last year.

Croa�a's natural beauty and friendliness are a�rac�ons no less, and Indian

tourists have started to visit this beau�ful country in large numbers. These

exchanges and understanding would be most helpful for enhancing two-

way business collabora�ons.

India is known as the land of culture and spiritualism in Croa�a. That may

be the case, but you need to experience the economic energy, dynamism

and vigour of the new India in the making. The world is taking note of it.

SPEARHEADING ECONOMIC ENGAGEMENT: INDIA–CROATIA

118

““ There is immense

poten�al to expand trade

and investment profile

and establish innova�on,

research and start-up

partnerships. Add to this,

we have a rich trading

past to encourage and

inspire us!

India today is the fastest growing major economy in the world with a growth

of over 7%. Presently, it is the third largest economy in the world in

purchasing power terms and the sixth largest in absolute terms. And it is

poised to be a 5 trillion-dollar economy by 2025. India has a transformed

business climate today, a good measure of which is India's extraordinary

jump of 65 places during the last four years in the World Bank Ease of Doing

Business Index. The introduc�on of the path-breaking Goods and Services

Tax has transformed India, a country of 1.3 billion people, into One Na�on,

One Tax, and One Market for the first �me in her history.

With growth, we are combining equity to empower women and to allow

those at the bo�om of the pyramid a stake in progress and prosperity. Our

financial inclusion programme - Jan Dhan Yojana - has seen over 330 million

bank accounts opened for the poor and the needy. The largest public health

insurance scheme in the world, Ayushman Bharat, has been rolled out with

enormous success.

We are also at work to tailor our reforms to realise the full poten�al of our

youth. India enjoys a uniquely favourable demography with nearly half of

our popula�on below the age of 25 years. Our Skill India and Start-up India

programmes are unleashing a new wave of entrepreneurship and

enterprise. India has the second largest network of start-ups in the world

with one of the highest numbers of unicorn success.

India is known for its so�ware prowess. Work is now underway to upgrade

the “hardware” of our na�on through next-genera�on infrastructure, be it

the 100 Smart ci�es, high-speed train corridors, airports, highways, or

na�onwide broadband connec�vity.

India is changing and fast. The interna�onal business community has given

a vote of confidence to these changes with new investments. During our

last financial year, we received USD 62 billion in foreign direct investment.

The Indian industry is also reaching out across the world, be it through

trade, direct investments or joint collabora�ons. But numbers o�en don't

capture the enormous changes taking place or the dynamism that

accompanies them. I invite you to come and experience what we are doing

for ourselves and for the world. We invite Croa�a to partner with us and

take advantage of the opportuni�es that India presents.

I am encouraged that bilateral trade has doubled during the last decade,

and some investments have been made in both direc�ons. However, you

would admit that our bilateral trade and investment flows are s�ll modest.

For Croa�a, the Indian growth story presents opportuni�es for two-way

engagement in informa�on technology, pharmaceu�cals, digital economy,

119

SPEARHEADING ECONOMIC ENGAGEMENT: INDIA–CROATIA

renewable energy, healthcare, infrastructure, defence and tourism sectors,

just to name a few.

We would like Croa�a to collaborate with us in our flagship programmes -

Make in India, Clean India, Start-up India and Digital India. We are also keen

to learn from Croa�a in the tourism and urban infrastructure sectors.

The Indian IT sector has much to offer to Croa�a. One of our largest IT

companies, Infosys, is present in Croa�a, as is a large pharmaceu�cal

company, the ACG Group. The Indian pharmaceu�cals industry is the third

largest in the world in terms of volume and the world's largest provider of

generic drugs. They can partner with Croa�a in providing quality

healthcare, medicines and medical devices for the public health system at

an affordable cost. There are prospects for promo�ng medical and wellness

tourism as well.

The Defence sector could be a vital area of coopera�on between our two

countries. Our defence requirements are huge and I invite Croa�an

companies to partner with us in mee�ng our demands. There are

opportuni�es in the renewable energy sector. In India, we have set a target

to reach renewable energy genera�on capacity of 175 Gigawa�s, including

100 Gigawa�s of solar by 2022. I am told that an Indian company, Green

Orient Power, has invested in wind farms near Sibenik. Entertainment is

another growing area of economic engagement. A number of Indian

filmmakers are now showing interest to shoot in this beau�ful country.

The services sector contributes significantly to the economies of both India

and Croa�a. We must look at ways to enhance coopera�on in this field.

India can also be a partner in Croa�a's development by providing skilled

manpower in informa�on technology, construc�on, hospitality and

health sectors.

There is lot more to happen in our bilateral economic rela�ons. I invite

Indian and Croa�an businesses to partner with each other for trade,

technology and investment collabora�on. In today's globalised world, we

cannot think only in terms of export and import, we must also look at

integra�ng our value and supply chains to derive maximum benefit. I am

happy that an India-Croa�a Business Council has been set in place. We need

to energise it and seek its assistance in iden�fying new areas of

coopera�on. As Governments, we can be the facilitators for business but

you are the true spearheads of greater economic engagement. I wish you

the very best in this endeavour.

120

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

I once again thank all the stakeholders for making today's forum a success

and convey my deep apprecia�on for the esteemed presence of Madam

President and her commitment to promote India-Croa�a business �es.

Address at the India-Croa�a Business Forum in Zagreb on March 27, 2019

121

SPEARHEADING ECONOMIC ENGAGEMENT: INDIA–CROATIA

t is a privilege for me to be at the University of Zagreb, this historic Ihome of thought and knowledge which is celebra�ng its 350th

anniversary this year. India's second President and my illustrious

predecessor Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan had visited this university in

October 1965. I thank Dr. Boras and the University for this opportunity to

once again bring to you the message of India.

The University of Zagreb is renowned as a centre for learning and

scholarship. We in India have a special connect with this university, and in

par�cular its Faculty of Humani�es and Social Sciences, for hos�ng the

Department of Indology. The rich work that this Department has undertaken

in promo�ng the study of India has been invaluable. In studying India, our

languages, our tradi�ons and our cultures, you have truly brought our two

countries together. We are privileged to have partnered with you in many

endeavours. Yesterday, we launched a Sanskrit Chair and have renewed the

Hindi Chair. These would yet again deepen our connect and collabora�on.

In India, we are proud inheritors of the legacy of ancient universi�es such as

Nalanda, which flourished from the 5th to the 12th century A.D. At its peak,

more than 10,000 students studied a wide variety of subjects on its campus.

Many of our modern universi�es were founded on the principles of

strengthening technological prowess of India. This has paid rich dividends

in the expansion of technological fron�ers in India, and by Indians across

the world.

Work on Indology is just one element of long history of linkages between

India and Croa�a, which date back to a �me when our two countries where

not the same poli�cal en��es as we are today. We are aware of Croa�ans

venturing to India as early as the 16th century, as traders, as explorers and

as men of ideas. I understand that one of your leaders, Stjepan Radic, was

highly influenced by Mahatma Gandhi. This year, we are celebra�ng the

150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of our Na�on. For

him, knowledge and educa�on were about understanding the oneness of ndhumanity and about harnessing the power of truth. On 2 October, his bust

will be unveiled in your historic capital. I do hope you will join the

celebra�ons to remember his legacy, and to imbibe his universal values.

Our noted poet and the first non-western Nobel laureate, Rabindranath

Tagore, visited Zagreb in 1926. His lectures appear to have profoundly

INDIA-CROATIA: REAFFIRMING THE HAND OF FRIENDSHIP

AND COOPERATION

122

impacted well known Croa�an minds. I understand that Tagore is the most

translated Indian poet in Croa�a, and that your writer Ivana Mazuranic's

works have been published in several Indian

languages including Bengali and Hindi. These

are truly people-to-people links that transcend

na�onal boundaries. We are delighted to see

so many Croa�an associa�ons interested in

Indian spiritualism, music, Yoga, and Ayurveda.

Intellectual curiosity and yearning in this

country is second to none.

Our cultural connec�ons are a ma�er of

immense pride for us. On these strong

founda�ons, we now have to build a new-age

partnership, a partnership anchored in

economic synergies, in geo-poli�cal reali�es, in

technology and innova�on, in sustainability and

the Fourth Industrial Revolu�on, and in the

strengths and priori�es of the two countries.

Croa�a's progress to a stable and prosperous

democracy is indeed inspira�onal. Your

journey as a member of the European Union, a

key global partner for India, heralds a new beginning for you and we wish

you well. All of us would do well with a stronger Europe, one that should

con�nue to anchor a mul�-polar world upli�ing mul�lateralism,

strengthening global governance and ensuring adherence to interna�onal

laws and regula�ons.

As the Croa�an saying goes, “nema kruha bez mo�ke” that is - there is no

bread without a shovel. You are certainly working hard to chart a new

future. The whole world admired you when you displayed your skill and

spirit on the FIFA football field. It reflected not just your spor�ng excellence,

but a bold new confidence to conquer and to succeed.

Recent changes in India have been hugely transforma�onal for our

economic growth and upli�ment of society. There is a new India in the

making, an India that is aspira�onal; that is globally connected and

impac�ng the global economy; and is willing to lead interna�onal efforts to

find solu�ons to global challenges – be it Climate Change or building a new

global architecture to deal with the menace of terrorism.

Technology integra�on has been a key ingredient of our na�onal

development policy. We have many recent successes to talk about. The

123

INDIA- CROATIA: REAFFIRMING THE HAND OF FRIENDSHIP AND COOPERATION

““ On these strong

founda�ons, we now

have to build a new-age

partnership, a

partnership anchored in

economic synergies, in

geo-poli�cal reali�es, in

technology and

innova�on, in

sustainability and the

Fourth Industrial

Revolu�on, and in the

strengths and priori�es of

the two countries

Indian Space Research Organiza�on launched 104 satellites at one go, a feat

unparalleled in the world. We are the only country to have successfully

launched a mission to Mars in our maiden a�empt, and at a cost that is less

than what it takes to make a space science-fic�on movie by Hollywood! We

are now aiming to launch a manned space mission in 2022 on the occasion

of the 75�� year of our independence.

Our biometrics-based unique iden�fica�on number system, Aadhaar, is

perhaps the largest informa�on technology project in the world, and has

already reached out to 1.2 billion people across our vast land. Its link with

mobile phone and bank accounts has heralded a digital revolu�on in India.

Thanks to our world class ins�tu�ons of higher learning, India has the third

largest scien�fic and technical manpower pool in the world, with 162

universi�es awarding over 4000 doctorates annually. India's skill in

informa�on technology is well-known. I am delighted that one of our major

IT companies operates an office in Croa�a almost en�rely with Croa�an

employees. India has a thriving research and development services market,

which is expected to reach 38 billion USD by 2020. A third of the top 1000

companies in terms of global research and development spending now

have centres in India. The knowledge economy wrapped around the digital

highway and powered by ar�ficial intelligence has immense scope to bring

our research-labs together, to bring our entrepreneurs together, and to

bring new solu�ons for health and well-being for our people.

124

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

Address at the University of Zagreb, Croatia

Demography is another key element in the India of today. We are perhaps

the world's youngest country, with nearly half our popula�on below the age

of 25 and nearly two-thirds of our popula�on in the working age group. This

is a genera�on that thrives on innova�on and entrepreneurship. They are

leading India's start-up culture par�cularly in the technology sector. We are

now the largest consumer of mobile data in the world, ahead of the US and

China put together. We also have the world's second largest internet base.

For decades to come, the youth of India will be at the forefront of

humanity's efforts to address our most pressing challenges. You have a

saying in Croa�a that aptly describes this – “na mladima svijet ostaje” that is

- the world rests on the youth.

Economically, we are the fastest growing large economy in the world with

growth rates of 7% and above for decades. This has pulled millions out of

poverty and allowed us to share the benefits of growth. Our economic

indicators are robust and we are confident that India will con�nue to be an

engine for global economic growth for the foreseeable future.

And in all our efforts, we have not forgo�en the essence of India, of

pluralism and unparalleled diversity, of democracy, of rule of law, of

upholding human rights, of standing up to terrorism and violence, of

extending a hand in friendship to the world. Many challenges remain in our

journey towards social and economic development, but we are confident

that we are on the right path.

As I have outlined, there is now a new India before you. Coincidentally,

Croa�a too, is reaching out to the world. There is much we can do together.

My visit, the first by a President of India to Croa�a, is to reaffirm our hand of

friendship and to invite Croa�ans, par�cularly its youth, to venture out to

India. I invite you to explore and experience this new India of hope, of

opportunity, of promise.

Address at the University of Zagreb on “India – Croa�a: The Way Forward” at Zagreb on

March 27, 2019

125

INDIA- CROATIA: REAFFIRMING THE HAND OF FRIENDSHIP AND COOPERATION

Iam delighted to address the India-Bolivia Business Forum. I thank

President Morales for his esteemed presence here. Our joint

par�cipa�on speaks of our deep mutual commitment to strengthening

business �es. I thank the Bolivian Chamber and Industry groups and the

Federa�on of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the

Confedera�on of Indian Industry for partnering in this event.

I am honoured to pay the first ever State

Visit from India to Bolivia. Today I was

conferred the highest award of Bolivia.

This was an honour bestowed upon my

country and my people, and I thank

President Morales from the bo�om of our

hearts for this special gesture. Our poli�cal

�es are strong and growing, but we have to

work more and hand-in-hand to bring our

economic partnership to the level of our

mutual understanding. I am accompanied

by 30 Indian companies represen�ng

different sectors - from gold, mining,

infrastructure, IT, automobile to energy.

We want their ideas and enterprise to

connect with Bolivian Commerce and

Industry, to create new corridors of growth

and prosperity.

During my discussion with President Morales earlier today, we commi�ed

to take our economic �es to the next level. We signed several MOUs in

diverse fields. Both our countries have their own economic strengths and

the two can complement each other in the mutual quest for growth and

prosperity. India is today the 6th largest economy in the world. We

manufacture everything from satellites, light aircra�, cars to major high

technology industrial products. We have the third largest scien�fic human

resource pool in the world. All these aspects, coupled with our large middle-

class market of over 400 million and a vibrant business ecosystem fostered

under a stable democra�c governance system, posi�on India as a unique

des�na�on for interna�onal trade and business. Our sustained efforts to

create a business-friendly environment have led to a spectacular jump of 65

INDIA-BOLIVIA:STRENGTHENING BUSINESS TIES

126

““ All these aspects,

coupled with our large

middle-class market of

over 400 million and a

vibrant business ecosys-

tem fostered under a

stable democra�c gover-

nance system, posi�on

India as a unique des�na-

�on for interna�onal

trade and business

places on the World Bank Ease of Doing Business Index in the last four years.

India is ready for more business.

Indian economy has been growing over 7% for several years and the

forecast for the future is equally robust. At this rate, we would become a 5

trillion dollar economy by 2025. This holds immense poten�al for our global

stakeholders to establish energy, natural resource, infrastructure and

technology collabora�on with us. Bolivia, with its huge natural resource

base, can become a valuable partner for us, crea�ng new jobs and

prosperity for both countries. Yes, it is true that distance is a factor in trade

and investment collabora�on. But with seamless connec�vity made

possible by digital communica�ons and globalisa�on, I must say, we have

overcome this limita�on in a major way.

On the trade side, we are doing well but we can do a lot more. Two-way

trade has picked up in the last two years. Our total bilateral trade grew by

over 200 per cent in 2018 touching 875 million USD. With this India became

the third largest export des�na�on for Bolivia. We import almost 60% of

Bolivian gold. This is impressive but we need to broaden the trade basket. I

am confident that with efforts of all our stakeholders, Confedera�on of

Private Entrepreneurs of Bolivia, CAINCO, CABINCO and others from Bolivia

and FICCI and CII from India, new ideas can take roots and flourish as

promising businesses.

In India, we have a focused business approach to this region. We hold the

India-La�n America and Caribbean Conclaves annually to deepen our

business collabora�ons. These Conclaves have served us well. Several

Indian global majors have made entry into Bolivia bringing cu�ng-edge

technology, products and services to the people. Our automobile products

are performing well on the Bolivian roads. India today is the largest drug

manufacturer in the world. Our high quality and cost-effec�ve medicines

and medical devices are enabling countries and governments to not just

provide quality healthcare but also to lower their costs.

Indian IT capacity is another cri�cal area for Bolivia to leverage. Our IT

services are helping countries to make public service delivery efficient,

targeted and cheaper. Given our mutual commitment to social equity and

improving the lives of the poor, India has much to share from its DIGITAL

INDIA and SKILL INDIA programmes with Bolivia under the framework of

South-South Coopera�on.

We are commi�ed to a transforma�onal economic growth in India. But we

want to be respec�ul to Mother Earth, nature in the same manner and with

127

INDIA-BOLIVIA: STRENGTHENING BUSINESS TIES

same devo�on as you have done. We want our progress to be propelled by

clean technology and sustainable prac�ces. We want growth and

environment protec�on to go hand in hand. We have established the

Interna�onal Solar Alliance to develop clean pathways and to tackle climate

change. We welcome Bolivia in the Alliance and look forward to crea�ng a

greener planet with its support and ideas. As part of this commitment, we

have a target to produce 175 gigawa�s of renewable energy by 2022,

including 100 gigawa�s of solar energy. We are developing our capacity and

at the same �me making available our services to fellow countries to tap

renewable energy. We see opportuni�es for �e-ups with Bolivia in solar,

wind and bio-fuel segments.

Talking of environment and sustainability, we have an ambi�ous

programme to develop electric vehicles in India. And for this, we would like

to enter into long-term Lithium partnership with Bolivia. Indian enterprises

are keen to mark their presence here as investment and technology

partners - to develop lithium products and to master storage technology.

We look forward to such promising ventures taking flight. India has gained

128

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

Address at the Bolivia-India Business Forum

129

vast exper�se in developing modern infrastructure – from railways,

highways, waterways, airways to energy pathways. This can also be a

poten�al area for collabora�on between our two countries.

Agriculture is another area that holds promise. Indian agro-scien�sts have

won interna�onal patents for developing cri�cal agricultural techniques

and high-yielding variety of seeds. Our companies are keen to invest in the

agriculture sector in Bolivia and enhance food security for our two peoples.

India has made impressive advances in the domain of Space applica�ons.

We sent a vehicle to the Moon in the very first a�empt at an unbelievable

cost of only 60 million USD less than what it takes to make a Hollywood

science fic�on! We successfully launched 104 satellites into the orbit from a

single launch vehicle, the first of its kind in the world. We now look forward

to our first human space flight mission in 2022. Bolivia, I understand, has

plans to develop its space satellite programme. We can be a reliable partner

for each other in this sector.

In keeping with our commitment to deepen our economic connect with the

world at large, we have extended e-visa facili�es covering business visits to

all La�n American and Caribbean countries. We would be happy if our

business community were encouraged with easier travel to Bolivia and a

more predictable business environment in the country for them to plan and

prospect be�er, and for us to deepen and strengthen our partnership.

With those words, I once again thank President Morales for his esteemed

presence and deep commitment to foster India-Bolivia economic rela�ons.

And I wish each one of you success in your business endeavours.

Speech at the India-Bolivia Business Forum in Santa Cruz on March 29, 2019

INDIA-BOLIVIA: STRENGTHENING BUSINESS TIES

Iam happy to be here for the India-Chile Business Roundtable. Indeed,

my visit itself is a tribute to growing bilateral linkages. This is the third

visit by a President of India to Chile, and all three visits have occurred in

the past 25 years. It is my first visit to Chile – and in fact the furthest I have

travelled from home since becoming President.

The welcome by the people and government of Chile has been warm and

special. I would like to thank President Piñera for the recep�on and

conversa�on, and of course for organising this engagement at La Moneda.

Geographically Chile and India are far apart, but

in substan�ve terms there are many similari�es.

The same waters wash our shores – we are part of

the same Indo-Pacific system. We have both used

these oceans intelligently and are among the

beneficiaries of globalisa�on and interna�onal

trade. It is in our interests to preserve the hard-

won gains of the mul�lateral trading order.

You are a country of talented and entrepreneurial

people with an exci�ng start-up culture. India too

has emerged as one of the world's largest start-up

hubs. Both Chile and India represent urbanising

growth stories. India is urbanising at a fast pace,

with 100 urban centres being upgraded in a smart

ci�es mission that covers next-genera�on

infrastructure, environmental management and

pollu�on control systems. In these areas, like in

many others, there is so much we can learn from

each other.

For India and for Indian business, Chile is not just a market; it is an

important long-term partner. Chile is India's window to La�n America and

to the Pacific Alliance. Our bilateral trade is growing and stood at USD 2.8

billion in 2017-18. Twenty-six major Indian business corpora�ons have so

far invested close to USD 220 million in Chile in different sectors.

While our bilateral trade is growing sharply, it is s�ll way below poten�al.

We shall work together to expand our trade basket and open new pathways

for economic engagement.

INDIA-CHILE: PRESERVING THE GAINS OF THE BILATERAL TRADING ORDER

130

““ Geographically

Chile and India are far

apart, but in substan�ve

terms there are many

similari�es. The same

waters wash our shores

– we are part of the

same Indo-Pacific

system. We have both

used these oceans

intelligently and are

among the beneficiaries

of globalisa�on and

interna�onal trade

131

INDIA-CHILE: PRESERVING THE GAINS OF THE BILATERAL TRADING ORDER

We can cooperate in areas such as marine research and other scien�fic

explora�on. India is also keen to strengthen its collabora�on with Chile in

the space sector.

India has a robust pharmaceu�cal sector known for manufacturing low-

cost, high-quality pharmaceu�cal drugs and vaccines. This is helping to

make healthcare affordable and accessible to many more families. The

government of India has set up a chain of almost 5,000 affordable medicine

shops across the country. The Farmacias Populares or People's Pharmacies

ini�a�ve of the government of Chile has similar mo�va�ons. I am confident

that together we can do a lot in this sector and promote public health.

India is the fastest growing major economy in the world. In 2019 and 2020,

India's GDP is predicted to grow by over 7 per cent. By 2025, India's

economy is expected to double in value to reach USD 5 trillion.

These numbers and these projec�ons are the result of sustained policy

reform and effort to improve the business environment. In recent years,

India has renewed its commitment to a liberal, transparent and globalised

economy. In terms of openness to foreign capital and interna�onal

investors, India is in the top league.

India is in the midst of an infrastructure push of unusual urgency. The country is

making and expanding highways, urban and rural broadband connec�vity, new

railway and freight corridors, ports, high-speed train networks, airports and

industrial corridors. The humming sound of construc�on is heard everywhere.

Address at the India-Chile Business Event

Fiscal and regulatory processes have undergone a transforma�onal change.

In the summer of 2017, India inaugurated the Goods and Services Tax regime.

This has brought the 29 states of our country on a common tax pla�orm. It

has created a cleaner and more structured business environment. In parallel,

on the World Bank Ease of Doing Business Index, India has moved up from a

rank of 142 in 2014 to 77 in 2018. This 65-step jump is the biggest for any

single country.

The interna�onal business community has responded to India's

achievements. In financial year 2017-18, India drew about USD 62 billion in

FDI and was recognised as among the world's most a�rac�ve investment

des�na�ons. Given this, Chile's modest investment in India is an anomaly.

Since the beginning of the century, Chilean companies have invested just

about USD 150 million in India. This needs to be rec�fied.

Chile's two sovereign wealth funds have a reputa�on for sound investment

decisions. They could consider opportuni�es in Indian infrastructure sector.

Together we can design investment products that serve Chile's Economic

and Social Stabilisa�on Fund as well as its Pension Reserve Fund – and feed

into the Indian growth story. This would lead to a win-win situa�on.

India's growth is different from that of many others. We are the first major

country that is seeking to make that leap into industrialisa�on while also

comba�ng climate change, and while reducing the intensity of dependence

on fossil fuels. India has set itself a target of 175 gigawa�s of renewable

energy by 2022, of which 100 gigawa�s will comprise solar energy.

India has commi�ed that by 2030, 40 per cent of installed power genera�on

capacity will be from clean energy sources. Your country too is inves�ng in

renewable energy with determina�on and is expected to generate 20 per

cent of energy from such sources by 2020.

Our coopera�on in the Interna�onal Solar Alliance will work wonders for

both our countries. So will, I may add, our lithium partnership. I am

extremely op�mis�c that business leaders from India and Chile will use this

event to renew old alliances and build new equa�ons – and take our

countries closer to a shared prosperity. I wish all of you the very best – and I

wish you many busy sessions of produc�ve deal-making.

Address at the India-Chile Business Event in San�ago on April 1, 2019

132

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

am delighted to meet all of you. Thank you for your warm and I affec�onate welcome.

nf{k.k vÝhdk vkSj Hkkjr] fofo/krkvksa vkSj lkaLd`frd le`f) ds ns”k gSaA ;g fofo/krk thou ds gj {ks= esa feyrh gS] ysfdu blesa ,drk dk etcwr /kkxk ekStwn jgrk gSA pkgs flrkj gks ;k lkjaxh] rcyk gks ;k e`nax] gkjeksfu;e gks ;k ckalqjh] “kkL=h; laxhr gks ;k ckWyhoqM ds xhr & Hkkjr ds bu thoar dyk:iksa us ges”kk ls gh tuekul esa vkuan vkSj mYykl dk lapkj fd;k gSA vki lHkh us vkt ;gka ftl rUe;rk vkSj yxu ds lkFk ;g jaxkjax lkaLd`frd dk;ZØe izLrqr fd;k gS] mls ns[kdj eq>s cgqr [kq”kh gqbZ gSA

It is a unique privilege for me to be visi�ng South Africa in the year of the

150th birth anniversary celebra�ons of Mahatma Gandhi. As we pay tribute

to him and to his ideals of peace and nonviolence on the occasion, it is natural

to be reminded of the role South Africa played in his journey from Mohandas

Karamchand Gandhi to Mahatma Gandhi. The 21 years he spent in South

Africa from 1893 �ll 1914 turned him into a true stalwart of freedom and

jus�ce. In honour of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, we

have begun our celebra�ons the world over. Over 130 countries, including

South Africa, joined us in singing his favourite bhajan “Vaishnav Jan To Tene

Kahiye”. I paid my tributes to him in all the three countries - Croa�a, Bolivia

and Chile - that I visited on this overseas tour, and spoke to the youth on the

relevance of Gandhiji's legacy in our daily life.

India stood firmly with our brothers and sisters in South Africa in their trials

and tribula�ons during the Apartheid regime. We cried in joy when Nelson

Mandela visited India in 1990 a�er his release from Robben Island. We

were honoured to have conferred on him the Bharat Ratna, our highest

na�onal honour the same year. Tomorrow, I will have the opportunity to pay

my respects to him at the Robben Island.

South Africa is home to one of the largest Indian diaspora anywhere in the

world and we take great pride in your success and accomplishments. Most

of you belong to communi�es and families that arrived in this beau�ful

country several genera�ons ago. We have heard inspiring stories of your

forefathers, of how they overcame adversity and built life for themselves.

Many among you have come to this country recently as professionals,

scholars and entrepreneurs. I deeply appreciate that despite the distance

and the passage of �me, South Africans of Indian origin have kept India close

to their hearts. You celebrate your fairs and fes�vals with much fanfare, and

you have maintained your tradi�on and culture with pride and glory.

INDIA–SOUTH AFRICA: SHARED VALUES AND PRINCIPLES

133

Just a few weeks back, I had the pleasure of conferring Padma Bhushan,

India's third-highest civilian honour on Mr. Pravin Gordhan, Minister of

Public Enterprises of South Africa. He is a shining example of the contribu�on

of Indian diaspora to the making of this great na�on and carrying forward the

legacy of stalwarts like Ahmed Kathrada, Lalu Chiba, Mac Maharaj, Billy Nair,

Fa�ma Meer, Dullah Omar, and many other dis�nguished members of the

Indian diaspora who stood shoulder to shoulder with their compatriots in

waging a struggle for freedom and crea�ng a modern Republic.

The visit of President Cyril Ramaphosa to India this January as Chief Guest

for our Republic Day celebra�ons opened another chapter in our bilateral

rela�ons. The rela�onship between the two great na�ons is going from

strength to strength. Our economic engagement is one of the key

ingredients of this vibrant partnership. Indian companies in South Africa are

adding value by opening new avenues of growth in the country. They are

providing direct and indirect employment to thousands and stand fully

commi�ed to suppor�ng the leadership's vision of bolstering the economy.

South African companies are also partnering in India's growth and

collabora�ng in our flagship ini�a�ves like Make In India, Digital India, Clean

India, and Smart City programme.

Our rela�ons are, indeed, deep and varied. We stood with South Africa not

just in the poli�cal sphere. We also took the lead in bringing South Africa

back to interna�onal cricket. And today these

spor�ng �es are flourishing and running to the

boundary, from Newlands to Eden Gardens, and

from test cricket to T-20. There is a slice of South

Africa in every corner of India, and a bit of South

Africa in every IPL team.

The Government of India is commi�ed to

deepening its �es with our diaspora abroad. I

would urge you to benefit from the schemes and

plans that we have put in place. We have made

our OCI scheme simple for more and more

people to benefit. Through technology, we have

scaled up our outreach and improved our public

service delivery. Today, as a ma�er of rou�ne, we

are reaching out to those in need, and with a

sense of urgency. I wish to share with you that in

the last four years we have rescued over 90,000

Indians caught in violence, strife and natural

disasters overseas.

134

THE REPUBLICAN ETHIC

“

“ May our two

na�ons con�nue to

chart new paths and

forge new �es to

unleash the crea�ve

energies of the two

peoples in ensuring

peace and prosperity,

not just for ourselves,

but for the en�re

humanity, ably guided

by the Mahatma and

Madiba

135

INDIA – SOUTH AFRICA: SHARED VALUES AND PRINCIPLES

Tomorrow, as I pay homage to the Struggle Veterans on the Robben Island, I

will recall the shared values of our two peoples, and the shared principles of

the founding fathers of our two na�ons that drive us steadily onto the path of

equality and prosperity. May our two na�ons con�nue to chart new paths and

forge new �es to unleash the crea�ve energies of the two peoples in ensuring

peace and prosperity, not just for ourselves, but for the en�re humanity, ably

guided by the Mahatma and Madiba.

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And as I say good bye, I wish to invite each one of you to visit Rashtrapa�

Bhavan. Yes, it is my residence and office, but more importantly it is a

na�onal monument, and you must come and learn of its democra�c values

and heritage.

Address at the Indian Community and Friends of India recep�on in Cape Town on

April 2, 2019

MARKING A NEW CHAPTER IN INDIA'S ONWARD MARCH

Iwarmly welcome you to Rashtrapa� Bhavan and would like to thank

you for graciously accep�ng our invita�on to be with us for the historic

swearing-in-ceremony of the new government led by our Prime

Minister Shri Narendra Modi. We count you as our close friends. Our people

are bound together by common democra�c values. For these affini�es,

your presence on this august occasion is truly special for us. On cherished

occasions, we Indians like to be in the company of cherished friends!

Today we are celebra�ng democracy, the

will of our people, ever nourished by their

aspira�ons and their achievements. Only a

few days ago, we successfully concluded the

largest democra�c exercise in human

history. It was a moment of pride for us and

an inspira�on for millions across the world.

As you know, the people of India have given

a decisive mandate to Prime Minister Shri

Narendra Modi. This verdict is an affirma�on

of his visionary leadership to build a New

India, not in a distant future, but here and thnow – as we celebrate the 150 birth

anniversary this year of the Father of our thNa�on, Mahatma Gandhi, and mark the 75

anniversary of our Independence in 2022.

This mandate is a call from our people for an

India where there is progress for all and no

one is le� behind; an India that is on course

to elimina�ng extreme poverty in the

coming decade, and to realising the

poten�al in every girl-child; an India that is at

work to harness new-age technology and

the limitless energy of its youth; an India that

wishes to connect deeper with its rich

cultural past even as it draws the contours of

its promising future; and an India that is fast

transforming itself as an engine of global growth and a centre of global

power-rela�ons.

136

““

This mandate is a call

from our people for an India

where there is progress for all

and no one is le� behind; an

India that is on course to

elimina�ng extreme poverty

in the coming decade, and to

realising the poten�al in

every girl-child; an India that

is at work to harness new-age

technology and the limitless

energy of its youth; an India

that wishes to connect

deeper with its rich cultural

past even as it draws the

contours of its promising

future; and an India that is

fast transforming itself as an

engine of global growth and

a centre of global power-

rela�ons

137

MARKING A NEW CHAPTER IN INDIA'S ONWARD MARCH

Aspira�ons run high in our people. They constantly yearn for a be�er life for

themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good

governance, equal opportuni�es and efficient and equitable delivery of

public goods and services. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi leads a

government that will con�nue to work selflessly and �relessly to fulfill these

aspira�ons and enable a life of dignity and respect to our ci�zens. His

dedica�on compels me to recall what Mahatma Gandhi said about

democracy: “My no�on of democracy is that, under it, the weakest shall

have the same opportuni�es, as the strongest.”

India's dreams are not for India alone. As we work for our progress, we

remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and

our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the

earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural

affini�es and economic opportuni�es of Central Asia, our people embody

similar hopes and aspira�ons. Over the centuries, India has been the

centrepiece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of

Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean. This is our legacy also our future. For

all our people and for the global community, we must work together to

foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain

stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing.

This evening marks a new chapter in India's onward march as a na�on. I

wish Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi every success as he takes on his

high responsibility in the service of our people. Once again, I thank you

for your august presence. May our na�ons prosper forever – and may we

prosper together.

Address at the banquet hosted in the honour of the Heads/ Representa�ves of the

State/ Government a�ending the Swearing-in-Ceremony of the Prime Minister of

India at the Rashtrapa� Bhavan in New Delhi on May 30, 2019