New Delhi, Nov 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday asserted that terrorists, once backed by neighbouring countries to disrupt India, now live in fear within their own homes, underscoring India’s strengthened security framework and its commitment to combating terrorism. Speaking at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit, PM Modi recalled the tragic 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and highlighted the government’s resolute actions in creating a more secure environment for the country.
In his address, PM Modi said that the days when Indian citizens felt unsafe in their homes due to cross-border terrorism were now behind them. “There was a time when people felt unsafe in their own homes and cities due to terror activities sponsored by neighbouring countries. However, times have changed, and today, terrorists themselves feel insecure in their own homes,” the Prime Minister stated, underscoring the shift in the security landscape under his leadership.
The Prime Minister attributed these significant improvements to India’s decisive actions in tackling terrorism and its unwavering focus on national security. He emphasized that the country’s approach has made terrorists who once operated with impunity across borders feel increasingly vulnerable.
Reflecting on his recent participation in the first Bodoland Mohotsav, PM Modi also highlighted the positive transformation in the lives of people in the region following the 2020 Bodo Peace Accord. He noted that after decades of violence, the region’s youth and communities had embraced peace and were now celebrating cultural events in Delhi, symbolizing the progress and unity brought about by the peace agreement.
“The youth in Bodoland, after five decades of violence, are now a part of the larger national narrative of peace and progress,” he remarked.
India’s Path to a “Viksit Bharat”
In a forward-looking message, PM Modi outlined his vision for India’s future, emphasizing the nation’s potential to become a global leader in the 21st century. “The 21st century belongs to India,” he declared, urging citizens to unite for the realization of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047.
Recalling India’s past struggles, including the British colonial period and the Emergency of 1975, PM Modi highlighted the resilience of Indian democracy. He pointed out that despite predictions of India’s disintegration post-Independence and during the Emergency, the nation had triumphed over adversity. Similarly, during the COVID-19 pandemic, India defied global skepticism, providing vaccines not only to its own citizens but also helping other countries in need.
Progress Through People-Centric Policies
The Prime Minister stressed that his government has moved beyond traditional vote-bank politics, focusing instead on inclusive growth and sustainable development for all. “Our mantra is ‘progress of the people, progress by the people, progress for the people,’” he said, underscoring the government’s commitment to empowering citizens and fostering transformative changes.
PM Modi pointed to the reforms implemented in the last decade, highlighting how India has embraced a risk-taking culture, encouraging citizens to pursue their aspirations. This shift, he explained, has been central to the government’s approach to economic growth and social development.
In terms of economic policy, the Prime Minister detailed the government’s strategy of “Spend Big For The People, Save Big For The People,” which aims to balance large-scale investments in infrastructure and job creation with long-term fiscal responsibility. “This approach directs investments toward generating employment while ensuring that development projects restore dignity to citizens,” he explained.
A Confident and Progressive Nation
PM Modi concluded by reaffirming that India today is a nation driven by aspirations, where citizens are at the forefront of progress. “The transformations we’ve witnessed over the past 10 years reflect a confident, ambitious, and progressive India,” he said, urging the nation to remain committed to building a brighter future.
He emphasized that the responsibility for achieving the dream of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ lies with every Indian citizen. “This is India’s century, and we will achieve our dream of a developed India,” he declared, signaling the continued focus on progress, unity, and collective responsibility.
With the Prime Minister’s remarks, India’s commitment to national security, economic progress, and a people-first development approach has once again been underscored, as the nation moves forward on its journey toward becoming a global power in the coming decades.