PM Modi hails India’s rise, says 1.4 billion aspirations are in motion

Jakarta — Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said India is moving forward with speed and scale, driven by reforms, performance and transformation despite global challenges.

Speaking at an Indian community reception in Jakarta, Modi said India’s growth reflected the ambitions of its people.

“If I had to describe the speed and scale of India’s growth in one line, I would say: 1.4 billion aspirations in motion. Today, every citizen of India, from villages to cities, is filled with aspirations. Everyone has gained the confidence to achieve success,” Modi said.

“This speed, this progress hasn’t come just like that. India has carried out one reform after another, we have consistently performed and that’s why the country is transforming today. Reforms, perform, transform… We are moving forward with this mantra,” he added.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto also attended the community reception, a gesture reflecting the close people-to-people ties between India and Indonesia.

Modi praised the Indian diaspora for its contributions to Indonesia’s progress and prosperity and said it serves as a living bridge of friendship between the two countries.

“Whether it is the tradition of floating miniature boats made from banana bark on the Mahanadi, the staging of the Mahabharata through Wayang Kulit, or the worship of Dewi Sri, every tradition reflects the enduring cultural connection between India and Indonesia. The history of this bond is as ancient as it is rich,” Modi said.

The Prime Minister said India is committed to serving as a force multiplier for progress and prosperity in Indonesia and the ASEAN region.

“Whether it’s Indonesia or India, both our countries are impatient for development. We have neither the chance to stop, nor to pause. Today, India’s economy is playing a major role in driving the world’s growth. When such a massive crisis of Corona (Covid-19) struck the world, even then India’s economy did not come to a standstill. When such a massive crisis was unfolding in West Asia, even then India’s economy did not halt,” he said.

Modi later thanked the Indian diaspora for the warm welcome.

“The atmosphere at the community programme in Jakarta was truly euphoric! Deeply touched by the warmth and affection of the Indian diaspora,” he posted on X.

“Delighted that my friend, President Prabowo Subianto, joined the community programme in Jakarta and made the occasion even more memorable. His address clearly reflected his affection for the people of India,” he added in another post. (Source: IANS)