PM Modi Says India Has Become a Global “Model of Hope” at Ramnath Goenka Lecture

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday articulated India's rising stature as a global "model of hope," underscoring the nation's determined march toward becoming a developed and self-reliant powerhouse amid worldwide uncertainties.

Addressing the Sixth Ramnath Goenka Lecture, PM Modi paid homage to the legacy of Ramnath Goenka, the visionary founder of the Express Group. "Today we honour a journalist whose courage and vision helped guide the nation," he remarked, reflecting on Goenka's unwavering commitment to principles beyond political lines during a critical era in India's history.

Highlighting India's economic resilience, the Prime Minister emphasised that the country has withstood global challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic, with remarkable strength. "So many challenges came through but couldn't affect India's bid," he said. "Our country proved itself by attaining a high growth rate. Our growth rate is 7 per cent despite global instability."

PM Modi declared that India's development model is gaining worldwide recognition. "India is not just an emerging market. India is also an emerging model," he asserted. "Today, the world sees the Indian growth model as a model of hope."

Stress was placed on inclusive development, transcending political boundaries. "Regardless of which government is in power in the states, the priority must always be development," the Prime Minister urged. "For a country to truly develop, it is essential to ensure social justice for every section of the people."

Outlining the government's comprehensive welfare efforts, he said, "We are continuously working on the mission of saturation. Not a single beneficiary should be left out from the benefits of any scheme." He proudly noted that these efforts have lifted 25 crore people out of poverty.

Commenting on the recent Bihar election, PM Modi hailed the high voter turnout as a triumph for democracy. "The Nov 14 results… No one can ignore the rising participation in the election," he observed. "Historic turnout in Bihar. The Bihar results have set a precedent on the type of rule the people want."

He also called for governance focused on public welfare rather than electioneering. "Emotional mode, not election mode, is necessary," he advised.

On education reform, the Prime Minister highlighted the National Education Policy's emphasis on local languages.

"In our new National Education Policy, we have given special emphasis to education in local languages," he noted.

Concluding on an optimistic note, PM Modi reaffirmed India's aspiration to unlock its full potential. "India is eager to become developed. India is eager to become self-reliant," he said resolutely.