On June 9th, I was sworn in as the Prime Minister of India for the third consecutive term, and on that day, I made a commitment. I vowed that in my third term, I would work with triple the strength and triple the speed. It is also noteworthy that the number three features prominently in many of our government’s goals. Our goals include making India the world’s third-largest economy in this term, constructing three crore houses for the poor, and creating three crore ‘Lakhpati Didis’. Perhaps this term is new to you.

Women Self Help Groups are active in villages across India. We aim to empower them significantly, focusing on skill development and diversification. In my third term, our goal is for three crore (30 Million) sisters from impoverished rural areas to achieve prosperity—meaning their annual income should exceed one lakh rupees (Hundred Thousand), sustained indefinitely. This is a formidable target, yet with the support and blessings of Indians world over, even the loftiest goals become attainable. You are all aware that modern India consistently meets its objectives. India has achieved remarkable feats, such as sending Chandrayaan to the moon, leading in secure digital transactions globally, and implementing pioneering social sector policies. Moreover, India boasts the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem today.

When you entrusted me with the opportunity to serve our nation in 2014, there were only a few hundred startups; today, there are lakhs. India is now breaking records in patent filings and research publications, showcasing the immense talent and strength of our youth—an achievement that has captivated the world.

Friends,

The world is amazed at the pace of development India has achieved in the past decade. Visitors to India often remark on the country’s transformation—recognizing new constructions and significant changes taking place. When India successfully hosts events like the G-20 summit, the world acknowledges India’s evolving stature. The rapid doubling of India’s airports in just ten years and the electrification of over 40,000 kilometers of railway lines further underscore India’s capabilities, leaving a lasting impression globally of India’s transformation.

Today, as India sets new benchmarks in digital payments, accomplishes the orbit of the sun from the L-1 point, builds the world’s tallest railway bridge, and erects the world’s tallest statue, it is evident to all observers that India is truly changing. This change is driven by India’s belief in the strength of its 140 crore citizens, both at home and abroad. India is proud of its people and their collective aspiration to transform into a developed nation. This commitment is visible in the diligent efforts of every farmer, every youth, and every underprivileged individual across the nation.

Today, my fellow Indians reside in various corners of the globe. Each of you carries immense pride in your homeland’s accomplishments, holding your heads high. When discussing India with your foreign friends, you enthusiastically enumerate the country’s achievements, and they listen attentively.

My friends, our nation does not evade its challenges. Today, all 140 crore Indians are tirelessly preparing to excel in every domain. You have witnessed how we not only revived our economy from the Covid crisis but also positioned it among the strongest globally. We are not merely addressing infrastructure deficiencies; we are setting global benchmarks. It’s not just about enhancing healthcare services; we’re ensuring free treatment for every underprivileged person through the world’s largest health assurance scheme, Ayushman Bharat. This scheme is the largest of its kind worldwide. How is all of this possible, friends? Who is driving this change? Once again I reiterate, it is the tireless efforts, dedication, and devotion of our 140 crore citizens and their dreams, resolutions, and diligent endeavours for success.

Friends,

The transformation in India extends beyond its systems and infrastructure; it is also evident in the self-assurance of every citizen, particularly the youth. As you know, self-confidence is the crucial first step toward success. Before 2014, we were engulfed in despair; frustration had taken hold. Today, however, the nation is brimming with self-confidence. Consider two patients with the same illness in a hospital, attended by equally competent doctors. One patient exudes confidence while the other is consumed by despair. It’s often observed that the confident patient recovers swiftly and leaves the hospital within weeks, whereas the patient in despair requires assistance. Present-day India exemplifies this self-assurance, which stands as our greatest asset.

You recently celebrated our victory in the T-20 World Cup. The tale of triumph in the World Cup reflects a journey of resilience. Today’s youth in India refuses to accept defeat until the final ball, embodying the spirit where victory crowns those unwilling to yield. This attitude resonates not only in cricket but across all sports.

Friends,

During the elections, I often remarked that the development achieved by India in the past decade is merely a trailer. The next decade promises even faster growth. From semiconductors to electronics manufacturing, green hydrogen to electric vehicles, and world-class infrastructure, India’s accelerated pace will script a new chapter in global development. Currently, India contributes 15% to global economic growth, a figure set to increase significantly in the years ahead. India will also lead the charge on global poverty and climate change challenges.

[Excepts from PM Shri Narendra Modi’s address to the Indian community in Moscow on July 9, 2024]