Lucknow Symbolises India’s Cultural Strength and Developmental Vision: Piyush Goyal

Union Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal highlighted the significance of Uttar Pradesh’s capital, Lucknow, here on Sunday.

He said, “Lucknow is more than just a city; it is a unique regional capital known for its rich tradition of ideas, culture, and dialogue, drawing the attention of the entire nation.”

Speaking nostalgically, he recalled how he used to see Atal Bihari Vajpayee representing this constituency and noted the special connection people had with the former Prime Minister, who not only served the city but also inspired generations through his poetry and presence.

Referring to the state’s development, he praised Uttar Pradesh’s law and order situation and said the state is steadily moving towards becoming a model for the entire country.

Reflecting on the national scenario, Goyal observed that before 2014, corruption, scams, and weak governance dominated headlines, and the situation in Uttar Pradesh was especially concerning.

He added, “The election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 marked the beginning of a transformative era. Under his leadership, India has undergone a comprehensive change in governance, mindset, and global perception.”

Goyal highlighted that today, Indians are viewed with unprecedented respect worldwide, a transformation not seen before 2014.

He emphasized Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to good governance, rooted in the principle of “Antyodaya to Sarvodaya”. By extending this vision to every household, the government has dramatically improved citizens’ lives. Milestones include electricity in every home, free gas connections, access to clean tap water, housing for 200 million people, free food grains for 800 million, 2.5 billion free COVID-19 vaccines, and healthcare coverage under Ayushman Bharat for 700 million citizens. In the last 11 years, 250 million people have been lifted out of poverty, setting a global record.

Goyal highlighted India’s rapid economic growth, noting that at the current pace, the country is poised to become the world’s third-largest economy in the next two to three years. He called development a mass movement, praising Prime Minister Modi’s dedication to the nation, as expressed in his August 15 Red Fort speech: “I live for you, you are my family. I have dedicated myself to fulfilling your dreams.”

From his tenure as Gujarat’s Chief Minister to his leadership as Prime Minister, Modi’s vision has strengthened India’s global standing and unified the nation, he said.

Union Minister Goyal also praised Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for transforming Uttar Pradesh over the past eight and a half years. He added, “Under Yogi’s leadership, the state has tackled land, sand, and liquor mafias, established strong law and order, and become India’s second-largest economy. With sustained development, Uttar Pradesh is moving toward a one-trillion-dollar economy, reflecting a clear vision for the future and inspiring progress nationwide.”