In a decisive rebuttal to the baseless criticisms leveled by Rahul against India on foreign soil, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has provided a compelling snapshot of India’s current and future trajectory. The detailed address highlights the stark contrast between Rahul’s negative portrayal and the actual progress the country is making on multiple fronts.
India, now a burgeoning economy nearing the $4 trillion mark, is set to maintain a robust growth rate of 8 per cent for the foreseeable future. The nation is witnessing unprecedented infrastructure development with the construction of 7 to 8 new airports and 1 to 2 metro systems annually. Additionally, the pace of highway and railway construction is nothing short of extraordinary, with 28 kilometers of highways and 12 kilometers of railway tracks being laid every single day.
Jaishankar emphasised the significant strides India is making in the realm of digitisation. In terms of digital advancements, India stands as a global leader. The country has achieved a record in digital financial transactions, with approximately 13 billion transactions occurring each month. This digital revolution is pivotal to the extensive public infrastructure projects underway, which include a housing initiative that has benefited around 170 million people and a health coverage program extending to 660 million individuals. Furthermore, the financial support for small businesses, in the form of annual loans totaling 58 billion dollars, underscores the government’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic inclusivity.
India’s startup ecosystem is thriving, with the country now home to the third-largest number of startups globally. The emergence of 117 unicorns highlights the robust innovation landscape and the country’s growing influence in global technology and business sectors. Over the past decade, the number of universities and colleges in India has doubled, significantly expanding the educational infrastructure and enhancing the quality and accessibility of higher education.
India’s role on the global stage extends beyond economic metrics. The nation is a leading manufacturer of vaccines and medicines, playing a crucial role in global health. Its contributions to the semiconductor industry and contract engineering underscore its growing importance in high-tech sectors. Furthermore, India’s success in space exploration, including moon landings and mass missions, highlights its burgeoning capabilities in advanced science and technology.
Jaishankar’s address not only refutes Rahul’s unfounded criticisms but also highlights the impressive strides India has made across various domains. While acknowledging that there is still work to be done, Jaishankar’s detailed presentation underscores the country’s significant progress and its pivotal role in the global landscape.
