India's membership of SCO would contribute to region's prosperity and strengthen its security: PM

Your Excellency Mr. Ismail Karimov,
President of the Republic of Uzbekistan,
Leaders of the Members States of Shanghai
Cooperation Organization;
Invited Leaders Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

 

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Almost a year ago, I started my journey of Central Asian countries from Tashkent. 

I still remember the warmth and generous welcome of Excellency Karimov and Uzbek people.

Let me join others in thanking you Excellency Karimov for you hospitality and excellent arrangements for this meeting.

At the Ufa Summit last year, conducted so ably by President Putin, the SCO leaders had accepted India as its full member.

It was a landmark in India's engagement with SCO.

Later today, we will sign the Memorandum of Obligations.

With this we would formalize the process of India's membership of the SCO.

And, as a logical extension India's age old ties with the region, one-sixth of humanity will join the family of SCO.

We are indeed grateful to the SCO Member States and its leaders for their overwhelming support for India’s membership of the SCO.

I also welcome Pakistan as the new member of the SCO and Belarus as a first time Observer to this body.

Excellencies,

India is not new to the region. Our historic linkages with you are centuries old. And, its just not geography that connects us. Our societies have been enriched by links of culture, cusine and commerce.

They form the bed rock of our modern day relationships with Russia, China and the countries of Central Asia.

Excellencies,

With India as its full member, SCO boundaries would stretch from the Pacific to Europe; and from the Arctic to the Indian Ocean.

We would represent forty percent of humanity and over a billion youth.

To this group, India brings principles that are in tune with the philosophies of the SCO.

India has always enjoyed good relations with the Eurasian land mass.

We also share global goals of stability, security and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific.

India would no doubt benefit from SCO's strengths in energy, natural resources and industry.

In turn, India's strong economy and its vast market could drive economic growth in the SCO region.

India's capacities in trade, investments, information and communication technology, Space, S&T, agriculture, health care, small and medium scale industry can bring wide spread economic benefit to the SCO countries.

We can partner to develop human resources and institutional capacities in the region.

Since our priorities match, our development experiences would be relevant to your national needs.

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Excellencies,

The interdependent world of twenty-first century is full of economic opportunities.

It also faces geo-political complexities and security challenges.

And, connectivity among the countries of the region is crucial to our economic prosperity.

And, not just physical connectivity.

What we need is seamless flow of goods, services, capital and people among ourselves.

But, that alone is not enough.

Our region also needs to nurture strong rail, road and air links with the rest of the world.

Within SCO, India will be a productive partner in building strong trade, transport, energy, digital and people to people links.

Our decision to join the international North South Transport Corridor, the Chabahar Agreement, and Ashgabat Agreement reflects this desire and intent.

Excellencies,

India's membership of SCO would contribute to region's prosperity. It would also strengthen its security. Our partnership will protect our societies from the threats of radical ideologies of hate, violence and terror.

India will unite with SCO countries to work towards this goal. And, we will adopt zero tolerance and a comprehensive approach in fighting terrorism at all levels.

With the same goal in sight, a stable, independent and peaceful Afghanistan is not just a sincere desire of each Afghan. It is also necessary for greater security and stability in the SCO region.

In conclusion Mr. Chairman,

I am confident that India's engagement with all SCO members will help us build a region:

Which is an engine of economic growth for the world;Is more stable and secure internally; and Strongly connected with other geographies.

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Excellencies,

Next year, we look forward to attending SCO meeting in Astana, as equal partners.

I wish all success to Kazhakstan in their Chairmanship of SCO in 2017.

I once again thank the Government and the people of Uzbekistan for their hospitality and congratulate Excellency Karimov for conducting today’s successful meeting.

Ref:  http://www.narendramodi.in/category/speeches

Yoga is not about what one will get, it is about what one can give up: PM

इस समय देश के हर कोने में इस योग के कार्यक्रम से लोग जुड़े हुए हैं और विश्‍व के सभी देश अपने-अपने समय की सुविधा से इस कार्यक्रम के साथ जुड़े हुए हैं। यूनाइटेड नेशन्स द्वारा पूरे विश्‍व में अंतर्राष्‍ट्रीय योग दिवस मनाया जा रहा है। भारत के अनुरोध पर गत वर्ष इसका प्रारंभ हुआ। 21 जून की तारीख इसलिए पसंद की गई कि एक प्रकार से विश्‍व के एक बहुत बड़े हिस्‍से में आज का दिवस सबसे लंबा दिवस होता है और एक प्रकार से सूर्य से निकट नाते का यह पर्व होता है और उसे ध्‍यान में रखते हुए 21 जून को अंतर्राष्‍ट्रीय योग दिवस के रूप में पसंद किया गया है। पूरे विश्‍व का समर्थन मिला, विकसित देश हो, विकासमान देश हो, समाज के हर तबके का समर्थन मिला। 

वैसे यूनाइटेड नेशन्‍स के द्वारा कई ऐसे अंतर्राष्‍ट्रीय दिवस मनाए जाते हैं। मैं सबका उल्‍लेख नहीं करता हूं लेकिन शायद यूनाइटेड नेशन्‍स द्वारा मनाए गए इतने सारे दिवसों में कोई दिवस जन आंदोलन बन गया हो... विश्‍व के हर कोने में उसको समर्थन और स्‍वीकृति प्राप्‍त होती हो, शायद अंतर्राष्‍ट्रीय योग दिवस की बराबरी कोई और दिवस नहीं कर पा रहा है वह भी एक साल के भीतर-भीतर|

अंतर्राष्‍ट्रीय अनेक कार्यक्रम होते हैं। UN के द्वारा World Cancer Day होता है, World Health होता है, World Mental Health Day होता है, World Age Day होता है, अनेक और भी कई होते हैं । Health को लेकर के भी अनेक, दिन दिवस UN के द्वारा मनाए जाते हैं। लेकिन यही है जिसका सीधा संबंध Health के साथ तो है, शारीरिक-मानसिक-सामाजिक तंदुरूस्‍ती के साथ संबंध है, वो योग आज इतने बड़े पैमाने पर जन सामान्‍य का आंदोलन बना है और मैं समझता हूं कि ये हमारे पूर्वजों ने, हमें जो विरासत दी है, इस विरासत की ताकत क्‍या है? इस विरासत की पहचान क्‍या है? इसका परिचय करवाते हैं।

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कभी-कभी तो मैं कहता हूं कि योगासन एक प्रकार से जीवन अनुशासन का भी अभिष्‍ठान बन जाता है। कभी-कभी लोग इसको समझने में उनकी क्षमता की कमी के कारण पूरी तरह समझ नहीं पाते हैं। कभी-कभी लोगों को लगता है कि योगा से क्‍या मिलेगा? ये पूरा विज्ञान लेने-पाने के लिए है ही नहीं। योग, क्‍या मिलेगा, इसके लिए नहीं है। योग, मैं क्‍या छोड़ पाऊंगा, मैं क्‍या दे पाऊंगा, मैं किन-किन चीजों से मुक्‍त हो पाऊंगा, ये मुक्‍ति का मार्ग है, पाने का मार्ग नहीं है।

सभी संप्रदाय, धर्म, भक्‍ति, पूजा-पाठ, वो इस बात पर बल देते है कि मृत्‍यु के बाद इहलोक से निकलकर के जब परलोक में जाएंगे तो आपको क्‍या प्राप्‍त होगा। आप अगर इस प्रकार से पूजा-पद्धति करेंगे, ईश्‍वर की साधना-अराधना करेंगे तो आपको परलोक में ये मिलेगा। योग परलोक के लिए नहीं है। मृत्‍यु के बाद क्‍या मिलेगा, इसका रास्‍ता योग नहीं दिखाता है और इसलिए ये धार्मिक कर्मकांड नहीं है। योग इहलोक में तुम्‍हारे मन को शान्‍ति कैसे मिलेगी, शरीर को स्‍वस्‍थता कैसे मिलेगी, समाज में एकसूत्रता कैसे बनी रहेगी, उसकी ताकत देता है। ये परलोक का विज्ञान नहीं है, इसी इहलोक का विज्ञान है। इसी जन्‍म में क्‍या मिलेगा, उसकी का विज्ञान है।

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योग के संबंध में शरीर, मन, बुद्धि, आत्‍मा ये synchronized way में काम करे, इसकी एक ट्रेनिंग योग के द्वारा होती है। हम अपनी तरफ देखे तो हमने देखा होगा कि हम चले या न चले, हम स्‍फूर्तीले हो या आलसी हो, थके हुए हो या ऊर्जावान हो, हमारा शरीर कुछ भी हो सकता है, ढीला-ढाला, ऐसे ही। चलो छोड़ो यार, कहां जाएगा वहां, बैठो। लेकिन मन, मन कभी स्‍थिर नहीं रहता। वो तो चारों तरफ चक्‍कर मारता है, यहां बैठे हो और आपको अमृतसर याद आ जाए तो वहां चले जाएंगे। आनंदपुर साहब याद आएगा तो वहां चले जाएंगे, मुंबई याद आएगा तो वहां चले जाएंगे। कोई दोस्‍त याद आया तो उसके पास मन चला जाएगा। मन अस्‍थिर होता है, शरीर स्‍थिर होता है। ये योग है जो हमें सिखाता है, मन को स्‍थिर कैसे करना और शरीर को गतिवान कैसे बनाना। यानी हमारी मूलभूत प्रकृति में परिवर्तन लाने का काम योग के द्वारा होता है जिससे मन की स्‍थिरता की ट्रेनिंग हो और शरीर को गतिशीलता की ट्रेनिंग मिले और अगर ये balance हो जाता है तो जीवन में ईश्‍वर प्रदत्‍त, ये जो हमारा शरीर है वो हमारे सभी संकल्‍पों की पूर्ति के लिए उत्‍तम माध्‍यम बन सकता है।

इस अर्थ में योग आस्‍तिक के लिए भी है, योग नास्‍तिक के लिए भी है। जीरो बजट से दुनिया में कहीं पर भीhealth insurance नहीं होता है, लेकिन योग ऐसा है जो जीरो बजट से health assurance देता है। योग को अमीर-गरीब का भेद नहीं है। विद्वान-अनपढ़ का भेद नहीं है। गरीब से गरीब व्‍यक्‍ति भी, अमीर से अमीर व्‍यक्‍ति भी योग आसानी से कर सकता है। किसी चीज की जरूरत नहीं है। एक हाथ फैलाने के लिए कहीं जगह मिल जाए, वो अपना योग कर सकता है और अपने तन-मन को तंदुरूस्‍त रख सकता है। भारत जैसे गरीब देश, दुनिया के गरीब देश, developing countries, उनका health का बजट अगर preventive health care पर बल दिया जाए तो काफी बचाया भी जा सकता है और सही काम में उपयोग भी लाया जा सकता है और इसलिएpreventive health care के जितने उपाय है, उसमें योग एक सरल, सस्‍ता और हर किसी को उपलब्‍ध, ऐसा मार्ग है।

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योग को जीवन से जोड़ना जरूरी है। बहुत लोग होंगे, अगर आज जल्‍दी उठ गए होंगे तो हो सकता है कि टीवी पर देखते हो या दिनभर में टीवी पर उनको ये कार्यक्रम देखने का अवसर मिले। मैं विश्‍वभर के लोगों से प्रार्थना करता हूं, आप खुद के लिए, खुद से जुड़ने के लिए, खुद को जानने के लिए, खुद की क्षमता बढ़ाने के लिए मैं आपसे आग्रह कर रहा हूं, इंतजार मत कीजिए। इस जीवन में योग को जीवन का हिस्‍सा बना दीजिए। जिस प्रकार से आज मोबाइल फोन आपके जीवन का हिस्‍सा बन गया, उतनी ही सहजता से आप योग को अपने जीवन का हिस्‍सा बना सकते हैं। कोई कठिन काम नहीं है, उसको सरलता की ओर ले जाने की जरूरत है।

कभी-कभी हम लोग योग के संबंध में जब चर्चा करते है, तब ब्राजील में एक धर्म मित्र योगी हो गए। उनका दावा था कि योग के 1008 आसन होते हैं, 1008 और उन्‍होंने प्रयत्‍न करके 908 आसनों की तो फोटोग्राफी की थी, उस क्रियाओं की। ब्राजील में जन्‍मे थे, योग को समर्पित थे। दुनिया के हर भू-भाग में आज योग प्रतिष्‍ठा का विषय बना हुआ है और जब योग का आकर्षण हो, योग की प्रतिष्‍ठा हो; तब जिस महापुरुषों ने, ऋषियों ने, मुनियों ने, हमें ये विज्ञान दिया है, हमारी जिम्‍मेवारी बनती है कि इसको सही स्‍वरूप में हम विश्‍व तक पहुंचाए। हम अपनी capacity building करे। भारत से उत्‍तम से उत्‍तम योग टीचर तैयार हो।

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अभी भारत सरकार ने गुणवत्‍ता के लिए जो council होती है, quality council. उसने योग की ट्रेनिंग कैसी हो, योग के ट्रेनर कैसे हो, उसके कुछ norms तय करने की दिशा में काम किया है। भारत सरकार ने WHO के साथ मिलकर के पूरे विश्‍व में योग के प्रोटोकॉल क्‍या हो, वैज्ञानिक तरीके क्‍या हो, उस पर काम प्रारंभ किया है। देशभर में योग को प्रोत्‍साहन देने के लिए व्‍यवस्‍था कैसे हो, विश्‍व में योग का सही रूप कैसे पहुंचे और उसकी जो शुद्धता है, उसको बरकरार रखने की दिशा में क्‍या काम हो? उस पर काम हो रहा है। नए-नए संसाधनों  की भी आवश्‍यकता है।

आपने देखा होगा, आजकल बड़े-बड़े शहरों में, जो Gynaecologist doctor होते है वो pregnant women कोpregnancy  के दरमियान योगा के लिए आग्रह करते हैं, योगा ट्रेनर के पास भेजते हैं  ताकि प्रसूति काल में उसको वो सबसे ज्‍यादा मदद रूप होता है, योगिक क्रियाएं। कहने का तात्‍पर्य यह है कि जैसे-जैसे समय बीतता है, जैसी आवश्‍यकताएं होती हैं, संशोधन करते हुए उसमें बदलाव लाने के लिए यह आवश्‍यक होता है।

हम बहुत व्‍यस्‍त हो गए हैं। खुद के साथ, अपने को न जोड़ पाते हैं, न हम खुद के साथ जी पाते हैं। हम अपने आप से cut-off  हो चुके हैं। योग और किसी से जोड़े या न जोड़े, अपने आप से जोड़ता है इसलिए योग हमारे लिए शारीरिक, आध्‍यात्‍मिक और सामाजिक चेतना का केन्‍द्र बिन्‍दु बन गया है। शारीरिक स्‍वस्‍थता देता है, आध्‍यात्‍मिक अनुभूति के लिए मार्ग बना सकता है और समाज के साथ संतुलित व्‍यवहार करने की हमें शिक्षा देता है इसलिए मैं चाहूंगा कि इस योग को विवादों में डाले बिना, जनसामान्‍य की भलाई के लिए और इहलोक की सेवा के लिए, परलोक की सेवा के लिए नहीं है। परलोक के लिए संप्रदाय है, धर्म है, परंपरा है, गुरु महाराज है, बहुत कुछ है। योग इहलोक के लिए, क्षमता बढ़ाने के लिए है इसलिए हम अपने आप को योग से जोड़े, सब लोग अपने आप को योग को समर्पित नहीं कर सकते। लेकिन खुद से जुड़ने के लिए योग से जुड़ना एक उत्‍तम मार्ग है। मुझे विश्‍वास है कि हम इस दिशा में आगे बढ़ेंगे ।

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आज योग विश्‍व में एक बहुत बड़ा आर्थिक कारोबार भी बनता जा रहा है। पूरे विश्‍व में एक बहुत बड़ेprofession के रूप में विकसित हो रहा है। योग के ट्रेनर की बहुत बड़ी मांग बढ़ रही है दुनिया में। दुनिया के हर देश में मांग बढ़ रही है। नौजवानों के लिए रोजगार के अवसर उपलब्‍ध कराने की संभावनाएं हो रही हैं। अरबों-खरबों का कारोबार आज योग नाम की व्‍यवस्‍था के साथ विकसित होता जा रहा है। दुनिया में कई देश ऐसे है कि जहां टीवी चैनल 100% योग के लिए ही समर्पित हो, ऐसे टीवी चैनल चलते हैं। एक बहुत बड़े कारोबार के रूप में भी ये विकसित हो रहा है।

आज हम हर प्रकार से योग करते हैं। मैं योग से जुड़े हुए सभी महानुभावों से आज इस सार्वजनिक मंच से एक प्रार्थना करना चाहता हूं। ये मेरी request है। क्‍या अगले साल जब हम योग दिवस मनाएंगे, ये जो एक वर्ष है, एक वर्ष के दरमियान हम योग के लिए; जो भी करते हैं करें  लेकिन एक विषय पर हम फोकस कर सकते हैं क्‍या? और वो मेरा विषय है मधुमेह, Diabetes. Diabetes और योग। सभी योग की दुनिया के लोग, जो भी ज्ञान उनके पास है, तरीके उनके पास है; साल भर योग की बाकी चीजें तो चलेंगी लेकिन ये प्रमुख होगा। भारत में Diabetes की संख्‍या बढ़ रही है। योग के द्वारा Diabetes से मुक्‍ति मिले या न मिले लेकिन उसकोcontrol तो किया जा सकता है। हम सामान्‍य व्‍यक्‍ति को Diabetes की स्‍थिति में कौन से योगिक उपाय है, ये सिखाने का जन आंदोलन खड़ा कर सकते हैं क्‍या? देश में Diabetes के कारण होने वाली परेशानियों से हम कुछ percent लोगों को भी मुक्‍ति दिलाएंगे तो योग इस वर्ष के achievement में, अगले साल कोई और बीमारी लेंगे। लेकिन मैं चाहता हूं कि इस उत्‍तम स्‍वास्‍थ्‍य के लिए कहीं पर किसी बीमारी को भी address करें हम और एक वर्ष के लिए एक बीमारी पकड़कर के आंदोलन चलाए।

दूसरा, योग। ये बीमारी से ही मुक्‍ति का मार्ग नहीं है। योग, ये wellness की गारंटी है। ये सिर्फ fitness की नहीं, ये wellness की गारंटी है इसलिए हमने wellness पर भी। अगर जीवन को एक Holistic development की ओर ले जाना है, ये उसका उत्‍तम मार्ग है।

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आज जब अंतर्राष्‍ट्रीय योग का दूसरा वर्ष है। भारत ने विश्‍व को ये अनमोल विरासत दी है। विश्‍व ने आज अपने-अपने तरीके से उसको स्‍वीकार किया है। ऐसे समय भारत सरकार की तरफ से मैं आज दो अवार्ड घोषित करने जा रहा हूं। अगले वर्ष जब 21 जून को अंतर्राष्‍ट्रीय योग दिवस मनाया जाएगा, तब भारत की तरफ से यह दो अवार्ड के लिए चयन होगा। उनको अवार्ड उसी समारोह में दिया जाएगा। एक अंतर्राष्‍ट्रीय स्‍तर पर योग के लिए उत्‍तम काम हो रहा हो, उनके लिए अवार्ड। दूसरा, भारत में हिन्‍दुस्‍तान के भीतर, योग के लिए जो उत्‍तम काम होता होगा, उनके लिए अवार्ड। एक अंतर्राष्ट्रीय योग अवार्ड, एक राष्‍ट्रीय योग अवार्ड।

व्‍यक्‍ति, संस्‍था, हर कोई इसमें जुड़ सकते हैं। उसकी जो expert committee होगी, वो उसके नियम बनाएगी, उसके तौर-तरीके बनाएगी, Jury तय करेगी लेकिन विश्‍व भर में जिस प्रकार से अनेक-अनेक ग्‍लोबल अवार्ड की वाहवाही होती है, याद होती है, उसका महात्म्य माना जाता है। हिन्‍दुस्‍तान चाहता है कि भारत, विश्‍व के लोग जो योग से जुड़े हैं उनको सम्‍मानित करे। हिन्‍दुस्‍तान में जो योग के लिए काम कर रहे हैं उनको सम्‍मानित करे और ये परंपरा हम आगे बढ़ाए। धीरे-धीरे इसको राज्‍य और district स्‍तर तक भी हम ले जा सकते हैं तो उस दिशा में हम काम करने के लिए प्रयास कर रहे हैं।

मैं फिर एक बार पूरे विश्‍व का, भारत की इस महान विरासत को सम्‍मानित करने के लिए, स्‍वीकार करने के लिए भारत की इस महान परंपरा के साथ जुड़ने के लिए मैं हृदय से विश्‍व का आभार व्‍यक्‍त करता हूं, मैं UNका आभार व्‍यक्‍त करता हूं, मैं देशवासियों का आभार व्‍यक्‍त करता हूं, मैं योग गुरुओं का आभार व्‍यक्‍त करता हूं। मैं योग के साथ समर्पित सभी पीढ़ी के लोगों का आभार व्‍यक्‍त करता हूं जिन्‍होंने इस परंपरा को बनाए रखा है और आज भी पूर्ण समर्पण भाव से योग की परंपरा को आगे बढ़ा रहे हैं और जैसा मैंने कहा जीरो बजट वाला ये health assurance, इसको हम एक नई ताकत दे, नई ऊर्जा दे, नई प्रेरणा दे।

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 मैं सभी योग से जुड़े हुए, आज इस चंडीगढ की धरती पर, मैं अभी बादल साहब को पूछ रहा था कि इस परिसर का इतना उत्‍तम उपयोग इसके पहले कभी हुआ है क्‍या? मैं यहां बहुत पहले आया करता था, मैं चंडीगढ में रहता था, करीब पांच साल मैं यहां रहा हूं तो मैं भली-भांति इन चीजों से परिचित था, तो जब चंडीगढ में ये कार्यक्रम बनाने की बात आई। मैंने कहा था कि इससे अच्‍छी जगह, उत्‍तम कोई परिसर नहीं हो सकता है और आज इस परिसर का उत्‍तम उपयोग देख करके मन को बहुत ही आनंद हो रहा है कि हजारों की तादाद में योग के साथ जुड़े लोगों को देखकर के मन को बड़ी प्रसन्‍नता होती है और विश्‍व पूरा जुड़ रहा है, ये अपने आप में एक गर्व की बात है। मैं फिर एक बार इस महान परंपरा को प्रणाम करते हुए, उज्‍ज्‍वल भविष्‍य की कामना करते हुए, बहुत-बहुत धन्‍यवाद करता हूँ।

Ref: http://www.narendramodi.in/category/speeches

India will walk side by side with Sri Lanka as it charts its own path to progress & prosperity for all of its citizens: PM Modi

Subah Udesanak Veva, Ayubowan

Last year, in March, I was in Jaffna.

The warmth and affection that I received from the people of Jaffna is still fresh in my mind.

It was a historic day because it was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Jaffna.

Today is another landmark day.

When, once again, we celebrate our partnership with the people of Sri Lanka and with residents of Jaffna.

Today, along with President Sirisena, we dedicate the renovated Durraiappah Stadium to the people of Sri Lanka.

And, we are not alone.

The modern tools of communication have enabled 1.25 billion people of India and the friendly people of Sri Lanka to join us in this celebration.

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Friends,

After a wait of nearly 20 years, your applause and cheer will once again rekindle the soul of Durraiappah Stadium.

Even while we are sitting thousands of kilometres away in Delhi, we can feel the pulse of vibrancy and atmosphere of change in Jaffna.

The Durraiappah Stadium is not just brick and mortar.

It is a symbol of optimism and economic development.

An arena for a prosperous and healthy future for Jaffna's youth.

It demonstrates your determination to shed the legacy of violence and pursue the path of economic progress.

Its foundations are supported by your courage and great sacrifices.

Its successful completion is a signal that you have left the past behind and are looking to the promise of a prosperous future.

Excellency Sirisena,

I also salute your visionary leadership and of Prime Minister Wickremesinghe the Governor and the Chief Minister of the Northern Province in ensuring the success of this project. 

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Friends,

Our relations are not limited to the confines of our two governments. They reside in the rich contacts of our history, culture, language, art, and geography.

India strongly believes that its economic growth must drive and bring benefit to its neighbours.

Durraiappah Stadium embodies the spirit of our cooperation. Indeed, India's support for Sri Lanka's development is a promise of our friendship.

And, that it will be based on your priorities and your needs is an assurance that you can rely on.

This is what makes our enduring ties relevant to our present, as also to our future.

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Friends,

India's desire is to see an economically prosperous Sri Lanka.

A Sri Lanka where: -unity and integrity; -peace, harmony and security; and -equal opportunity and dignity.

prevails throughout the country among all its people.

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Excellency Sirisena and Friends,

In about seventy-two hours from now, the world would be celebrating the second anniversary of the International day of Yoga on 21 June.

Sri Lanka was among the first supporters of the UN resolution on this subject in 2014.

And, today, we have celebrated the start of the International day of Yoga with a curtain raiser from Jaffna, from this Durraiappah Stadium.

The 'Surya Namaskar', performed just a short while ago, has sent the message of holistic healthcare, harmonious and sustainable living with nature to the world.

We could not have asked for a more fitting start and tribute to the International Day of Yoga.

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Excellency President Sirisena

I once again thank you; the entire leadership present on your side, and the lovely people of Jaffna for this opportunity.

Durraiappah Stadium will stand as yet another symbol of our lasting friendship.

India will walk side by side with Sri Lanka as it charts its own path to progress and prosperity for all of its citizens.

I once again convey greetings to the people of Sri Lanka from 1.25 billion people of India.

Bohoma Stuti, Mikka Nandri, Thank you very much

Ref: http://www.narendramodi.in/category/speeches

The convergence of Thailand's 'Look West' & India's 'Act East' policy lights the path to a bright future of our partnership: PM

You Excellency Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha Ladies and Gentlemen

It is a great pleasure to welcome you to India.

Your visit is a high point in our top-level political exchanges.
You come from a land that is very familiar to us.

From the Legend of Rama to the Wisdom of Buddha our ties are founded on a shared cultural heritage. Our historical people-to-people ties provide a strong basis to our partnership.
Thailand is a trusted and valued friend, and one of our closest partners in Southeast Asia.

Friends,

Today, Prime Minister and I reviewed the full range of our bilateral engagement:
From culture to commerce;

From closer contacts between our peoples to deeper connectivity; and From counter-terrorism to defence and security.

We are both aware that rapid spread of terrorism and radical ideology poses a common challenge to both our societies.

And, we also recognize that our close security partnership would help us to secure our peoples from these threats.

In our shared objective to combat these challenges, India is particularly grateful to Thailand for its assistance and cooperation.

Beyond terrorism, we have agreed to further deepen our security engagement in the fields of cyber security, narcotics, transnational economic offenses and human trafficking.

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Friends,

The land frontiers of our two countries are not far apart.
And, we are also maritime neighbours.

So, Prime Minister and I have agreed to forge a closer partnership in the fields of defence and maritime cooperation.

A partnership to meet our bilateral interests ; and to respond to our shared regional goals.
And a partnership, which will be shaped by:
Sharing of expertise and experiences;
Greater staff exchanges and more exercises;
Cooperation on counter-piracy on seas;
Deeper engagement in naval patrolling; and Building linkages in the field of defence R&D and production.

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Friends,

Trade and commerce flows are an important lifeline of the interdependent world today.
Excellency and I agree that a more diversified commercial engagement between us would not only benefit both our economies. It would also enable greater regional economic prosperity.
In this context, we welcome the first meeting of the India-Thailand Joint Business Forum to be held later today. We encourage them, and the other business-sector stakeholders, to take lead in tapping the emerging business opportunities in both our countries.

Alongside trade, there are also ample avenues for greater manufacturing and investment linkages.
We see a particular synergy between Thai strengths in infrastructure, particularly tourism infrastructure, and India's priorities in this field.

Information Technology, pharmaceuticals, auto-components, and machinery are some other areas of promising collaboration.

We also see early conclusion of a balanced Comprehensive Economic and Partnership Agreement as our shared priority.

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Friends,

Prime Minister and I are fully aware that smooth flow of goods, services, capital and human resources between our economies needs a strong network of air, land and sea links.

We have, therefore, prioritized completion of India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral highway; and early signing of the Motor Vehicles Agreement between our three countries.

Connectivity is also an area of priority for India’s development.

Improving access to Southeast Asia from our Northeastern States benefits both our peoples.

Friends,

Stronger connectivity is essential not just for expanding bilateral trade ties. It also brings our people closer and facilitates enhanced science, education, culture and tourism cooperation.

Next year, to commemorate the seventy years of establishment of our diplomatic relations, we will celebrate Festival of India in Thailand, and Festival of Thailand in India.

This year, India is also celebrating one hundred and twenty-fifth birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of Indian Constitution.

I am delighted that the Indian Constitution will soon be translated into Thai language.

I am also happy to announce that to welcome more tourists from Thailand to India, and to help them enjoy their visits to Buddhist sites in India, we will soon facilitate double entry e-tourist visas for citizens of Thailand.

Excellency,

India has always deeply appreciated the warmth and affection of the Royal Family of Thailand for India.

Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn has been a frequent and very welcome visitor to India.

We look forward to welcoming her in India again later this year.

We also look forward to the honour of receiving His Royal Highness Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn in India at his earliest convenience.

In conclusion, let me say that the convergence of Thailand's 'Look West', and India's 'Act East' policy lights the path to a bright future of our partnership.

Excellency, let me once again welcome you and your delegation to India.

Thank you.

Ref: http://www.narendramodi.in/category/speeches

Mexico supports India's bid to join NSG

Your Excellency President Enrique Peña Nieto

Dear Friends,

Muchas gracias, Señor Presidente!

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Thank you, Mr. President for your generous welcome. 

I am particularly touched by your warmth and hospitality. Although this is my first visit to your great country as the Prime Minister, I had experienced the richness of your culture during my travel in early nineties as a common Indian. We are meeting for the third time in last two years. I have always found my conversations with you deeply stimulating. I truly value your friendship Mr. President.

Friends, Mexico was the first Latin American country to recognize India. Since then, the trajectory of our all round bilateral ties has shown growing intensity. In 2007 we established Privileged Partnership. Today, during our conversations, President and I held productive discussions on the entire range of bilateral relations, and on global issues of mutual interests. We have agreed to work and develop a roadmap of concrete outcomes to upgrade our ties to a Strategic Partnership.

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Friends,

Ties of business and investment are an important driver of our relationship. Mexico is an important partner for India’s energy security. We are now looking to move beyond a buyer-seller relationship, and into a long-term partnership. Information technology, energy, pharmaceuticals, and automotive industries are among key growth areas of our commercial linkages. But, there is potential to expand our commercial and investment, and Science and Technology partnerships in new areas. In this regard, President and I agreed to find ways to deepen our cooperation in Space, and science and technology. We will also prioritize concrete projects in areas of agricultural research; bio-technology; waste management; disaster warning and management, and solar energy. I would like to particularly thank President Pena Nieto for his support to the International Solar Alliance. It will transform the global canvas for solar technology, especially for developing and Small Island Developing countries.

Friends,

President and I recognize the opportunities and challenges of this century. We both feel that our growing convergence on international issues allows us to join our capacities to strengthen international regimes of strategic importance. I thank President Pena Nieto for Mexico's positive and constructive support for India's membership of the NSG

Excellency,

I see in you a reformer and believer in the destiny of this country. I too am focused on reforming India's economic and governance structures. This is one area where our sharing of best practices can benefit both our societies. Friends, In his book "In Light of India”, the great author Octavio Paz wrote, "I can understand what it means to be Indian, because I am Mexican”. Of course, it is true the other way too! I believe we have succeeded today in strengthening this mutual understanding further. It has been a wonderful visit. Excellency, I once again thank you for your welcome, your friendship and belief in India-Mexico friendship. And, I look forward to welcoming you Señor Presidente in India at the earliest opportunity.

Thank you, Thank you very much.

Ref: http://www.narendramodi.in/category/speeches

A strong India-U.S. partnership can anchor peace, prosperity & stability across the world: PM Modi

Mr. Speaker,
Mr. Vice President,
Distinguished Members of the U.S. Congress
Ladies and Gentlemen.

I am deeply honoured by the invitation to address this Joint Meeting of the U.S. Congress.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker for opening the doors of this magnificent Capitol.

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This temple of democracy has encouraged and empowered other democracies the world over.

It manifests the spirit of this great nation, which in Abraham Lincoln's words, "was conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."

In granting me this opportunity, you have honoured the world's largest democracy and its 1.25 billion people.

As a representative of world's largest democracy, it is indeed a privilege to speak to the leaders of its oldest.

Mr. Speaker,

Two days ago, I began my visit by going to the Arlington National Cemetery -the final resting place of many brave soldiers of this great land.

I honoured their courage and sacrifice for the ideals of freedom and democracy.

It was also the seventy-second Anniversary of the D-Day.

On that day, thousands from this great country fought to protect the torch of liberty on the remote shores of a land that they did not know.

They sacrificed their lives so that the world lives in freedom.

I applaud …India applauds, the great sacrifices of the men and women from 'The Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave' in service of mankind.

India knows what this means because our soldiers too have fallen in distant battlefields for the same ideals.

That is why the threads of freedom and liberty form a strong bond between our two democracies.

Mr. Speaker,

Our nations may have been shaped by differing histories, cultures, and faiths.

Yet, our belief in democracy for our nations and liberty for our countrymen is common.

The idea that all citizens are created equal is a central pillar of the American constitution.

Our founding fathers too shared the same belief and sought individual liberty for every citizen of India.

There were many who doubted India when, as a newly independent nation, we reposed our faith in democracy.

Indeed, wagers were made on our failure.

But, the people of India did not waver.

Our founders created a modern nation with freedom, democracy, and equality as the essence of its soul.

And, in doing so, they ensured that we continued to celebrate our age old diversity.

Today, across its streets and institutions, in its villages and cities, anchored in equal respect for all faiths; and in the melody of hundreds of its languages and dialects.

India lives as one; India grows as one; India celebrates as one.

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Mr. Speaker,

Modern India is in its 70th year.

For my government, the Constitution is its real holy book.

And, in that holy book, freedom of faith, speech and franchise, and equality of all citizens, regardless of background, are enshrined as fundamental rights.

800 million of my countrymen may exercise the freedom of franchise once every five years.

But, all the 1.25 billion of our citizens have freedom from fear, a freedom they exercise every moment of their lives.

Distinguished Members,

Engagement between our democracies has been visible in the manner in which our thinkers impacted one another, and shaped the course of our societies.

Thoreau's idea of civil disobedience influenced our political thoughts.

And, similarly the call by the great sage of India Swami Vivekananda to embrace humanity was most famously delivered in Chicago.

Gandhi's non-violence inspired the heroism of Martin Luther King.

Today, a mere distance of 3 miles separates the Martin Luther King memorial at Tidal Basin from the statue of Gandhi at Massachusetts Avenue.

This proximity of their memorials in Washington mirrors the closeness of ideals and values they believed in.

The genius of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was nurtured in the years he spent at the Columbia University a century ago.

The impact of the U.S. constitution on him was reflected in his drafting of the Indian constitution some three decades later.

Our independence was ignited by the same idealism that fuelled your struggle for freedom.

No wonder then that former Prime Minister of India Atal Bihari Vajpayee called India and the U.S. 'natural allies'.

No wonder that the shared ideals and common philosophy of freedom shaped the bedrock of our ties.

No wonder then, that President Obama has called our ties the defining partnership of the 21st century.

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Mr. Speaker,

More than fifteen years ago, Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee stood here and gave a call to step out of the 'shadow of hesitation' of the past.

The pages of our friendship since then tell a remarkable story.

Today, our relationship has overcome the hesitations of history.

Comfort, candour and convergence define our conversations.

Through the cycle of elections and transitions of Administrations the intensity of our engagements has only grown.

And, in this exciting journey, the U.S. Congress has acted as its compass.

You helped us turn barriers into bridges of partnership.

In the fall of 2008, when the Congress passed the India-U.S. Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement, it changed the very colours of leaves of our relationship.

We thank you for being there when the partnership needed you the most.

You have also stood by us in times of sorrow.

India will never forget the solidarity shown by the U.S. Congress when terrorists from across our border attacked Mumbai in November of 2008.

And for this, we are grateful.

Mr. Speaker,

I am informed that the working of the U.S. Congress is harmonious.

I am also told that you are well-known for your bipartisanship.

Well, you are not alone.

Time and again, I have also witnessed a similar spirit in the Indian Parliament, especially in our Upper House.

So, as you can see, we have many shared practices.

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Mr. Speaker,

As this country knows well, every journey has its pioneers.

Very early on, they shaped a development partnership even when the meeting ground was more limited.

The genius of Norman Borlaug brought the Green Revolution and food security to India.

The excellence of the American Universities nurtured Institutes of Technology and Management in India.

And, I could go on.

Fast forward to today.

The embrace of our partnership extends to the entirety of human endeavour-from the depths of the oceans to the vastness of the space.

Our S&T collaboration continues to helps us in cracking the age-old problems in the fields of public health, education, food, and agriculture.

Ties of commerce and investment are flourishing. We trade more with the U.S. than with any other nation.

And, the flow of goods, services and capital between us generates jobs in both our societies.

As in trade, so in defence. India exercises with the United States more than we do with any other partner. Defence purchases have moved from almost zero to ten billion dollars in less than a decade.

Our cooperation also secures our cities and citizens from terrorists, and protects our critical infrastructure from cyber threats.

Civil Nuclear Cooperation, as I told President Obama yesterday, is a reality.

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Mr. Speaker,

Our people to people links are strong; and there is close cultural connect between our societies.

SIRI tells us that India's ancient heritage of Yoga has over 30 million practitioners in the U.S..

It is estimated that more Americans bend for yoga than to throw a curve ball.

And, no Mr. Speaker, we have not yet claimed intellectual property right on Yoga.

Connecting our two nations is also a unique and dynamic bridge of three million Indian Americans.

Today, they are among your best CEOs; academics; astronauts; scientists; economists; doctors; even spelling bee champions.

They are your strength. They are also the pride of India. They symbolize the best of both our societies.

Mr. Speaker,

My understanding of your great country began long before I entered public office.

Long before assuming office, I travelled coast to coast, covering more than 25 States of America.

I realized then that the real strength of the U.S. was in the dreams of its people and the boldness of their ambitions.

Today, Mr. Speaker, a similar spirit animates India.

Our 800 million youth, especially, are particularly impatient.

India is undergoing a profound social and economic change.

A billion of its citizens are already politically empowered.

My dream is to economically empower them through many social and economic transformations.

And, do so by 2022, the seventy-fifth anniversary of India's independence.

My to-do list is long and ambitious. But you will understand.

It includes:

· A vibrant rural economy with robust farm sector;

· A roof over each head and electricity to all households;

· To skill millions of our youth;

· Build 100 smart cities;

· Have a broad band for a billion, and connect our villages to the digital world;

· And create a twenty-first century rail, road and port infrastructure.

These are not just aspirations; they are goals to be reached in a finite time-frame.

And, to be achieved with a light carbon foot print, with greater emphasis on renewables.

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Mr. Speaker,

In every sector of India's forward march, I see the U.S. as an indispensable partner.

Many of you also believe that a stronger and prosperous India is in America's strategic interest.

Let us work together to convert shared ideals into practical cooperation.

There can be no doubt that in advancing this relationship, both nations stand to gain in great measure.

As the U.S. businesses search for new areas of economic growth, markets for their goods, a pool of skilled resources, and global locations to produce and manufacture, India could be their ideal partner.

India's strong economy, and growth rate of 7.6% per annum, is creating new opportunities for our mutual prosperity.

Transformative American technologies in India and growing investment by Indian companies in the United States both have a positive impact on the lives of our citizens.

Today, for their global research and development centres, India is the destination of choice for the U.S. companies.

Looking eastward from India, across the Pacific, the innovation strength of our two countries comes together in California.

Here, the innovative genius of America and India's intellectual creativity are working to shape new industries of the future.

Mr. Speaker,

The 21st century has brought with it great opportunities.

But, it also comes with its own set of challenges.

Inter-dependence is increasing.

But, while some parts of the world are islands of growing economic prosperity; other are mired in conflicts.

In Asia, the absence of an agreed security architecture creates uncertainty.

Threats of terror are expanding, and new challenges are emerging in cyber and outer-space.

And, global institutions conceived in 20th century, seem unable to cope with new challenges or take on new responsibilities.

In this world full of multiple transitions and economic opportunities; growing uncertainties and political complexities; existing threats and new challenges; our engagement can make a difference by promoting:

· Cooperation not dominance;
· Connectivity not isolation;
· Respect for Global Commons;
· inclusive not exclusive mechanisms; and above all
· adherence to international rules and norms.

India is already assuming her responsibilities in securing the Indian Ocean region.

A strong India-U.S. partnership can anchor peace, prosperity and stability from Asia to Africa and from Indian Ocean to the Pacific.

It can also help ensure security of the sea lanes of commerce and freedom of navigation on seas.

But, the effectiveness of our cooperation would increase if international institutions framed with the mindset of the 20th century were to reflect the realities of today.

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Mr. Speaker,

Before arriving in Washington D.C., I had visited Herat in Western Afghanistan to inaugurate Afghan-India Friendship Dam, a 42 MW hydro-electric project built with Indian assistance.

I was also there on the Christmas day last year to dedicate to that proud nation its Parliament, a testimony to our democratic ties.

Afghans naturally recognize that the sacrifices of American have helped create a better life.

But, your contribution in keeping the region safe and secure is deeply appreciated even beyond.

India too has made an enormous contribution and sacrifices to support our friendship with Afghan people.

A commitment to rebuild a peaceful, and stable and prosperous Afghanistan our shared objective.

Yet, Distinguished Members, not just in Afghanistan, but elsewhere in South Asia, and globally, terrorism remains the biggest threat.

In the territory stretching from West of India's border to Africa, it may go by different names, from Laskhar-e-Taiba, to Taliban to ISIS.

But, it’s philosophy is common: of hate, murder and violence.

Although it's shadow is spreading across the world, it is incubated in India's neighbourhood.

I commend the members of the U.S. Congress for sending a clear message to those who preach and practice terrorism for political gains.

Refusing to reward them is the first step towards holding them accountable for their actions.

The fight against terrorism has to be fought at many levels.

And, the traditional tools of military, intelligence or diplomacy alone would not be able to win this fight.

Mr. Speaker,

We have both lost civilians and soldiers in combating it.

The need of the hour is for us to deepen our security cooperation.

And, base it on a policy:

· that isolates those who harbour, support and sponsor terrorists;

· that does not distinguish between "good" and "bad" terrorists; and that delinks religion from terrorism.
Also, for us to succeed, those who believe in humanity must come together to fight for it as one, and speak against this menace in one voice.

Terrorism must be delegitimized.

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Mr. Speaker,

The benefits of our partnership extend not just to the nations and regions that need it most.

On our own, and by combining our capacities, we are also responding to other global challenges including when disaster strikes and where humanitarian relief is needed.

Far from our shores, we evacuated thousands from Yemen, Indians, Americans and others.

Nearer home, we were the first responders during Nepal's earthquake, in the Maldives water crisis and most recently during landslide in Sri Lanka.

We are also one of the largest contributors of troops to UN Peace Keeping Operations.

Often, India and the U.S. have combined their strengths in science, technology and innovation to help fight hunger, poverty, diseases and illiteracy in different parts of the world.

The success of our partnership is also opening up new opportunities for learning, security and development from Asia to Africa.

And, the protection of environment and caring for the planet is central to our shared vision of a just world.

For us in India, to live in harmony with mother earth is part of our ancient belief.

And, to take from nature only what is most essential is part of our civilizational ethos.

Our partnership, therefore, aims to balance responsibilities with capabilities.

And, it also focuses on new ways to increase the availability and use of renewable energy. 

A strong U.S. support for our initiative to form an International Solar Alliance is one such effort.

We are working together not just for a better future for ourselves, but for the whole world.

This has also been the goal of our efforts in G-20, East Asia Summit and Climate Change summits.

Mr. Speaker and Distinguished Members

As we deepen our partnership, there would be times when we would have differing perspectives.

But, since our interests and concerns converge, the autonomy in decision making and diversity in our perspectives can only add value to our partnership.

So, as we embark on a new journey, and seek new goals, let us focus not just on matters routine but transformational ideas.

Ideas which can focus:

· Not just on creating wealth but also creating value for our societies;

· Not just on immediate gains but also long term benefits;

· Not just on sharing best practices but also shaping partnerships; and

· Not just on building a bright future for our peoples, but in being a bridge to a more united, humane and prosperous world.

And, important for the success of this journey would be a need to view it with new eyes and new sensitivities.

When we do this, we will realise the full promise of this extraordinary relationship.

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Mr. Speaker,

My final thoughts and words would reiterate that our relationship is primed for a momentous future.

The constraints of the past are behind us and foundations of the future are firmly in place.

In the lines of Walt Whitman,

"The Orchestra have sufficiently tuned their instruments, the baton has given the signal."

And to that, if I might add, there is a new symphony in play.

Thank you Mr. Speaker and Distinguished members for this honour.

Thank you very much.

Ref: http://www.narendramodi.in/category/speeches

Prime Minister's Keynote Speech at 41st AGM of US India Business Council (USIBC)

Ladies & Gentlemen,

I am delighted to be here again amidst such a large and distinguished gathering of political and business leaders. Earlier today, I had the pleasure of meeting President Obama and we shared our thoughts on a wide range of issues concerning our two nations. India’s bilateral relationship with the United States is stronger than ever and we both agreed that the future would be even brighter.

I am speaking to you at a time when the global economy continues to be weak. Several parts of the world are still facing very difficult conditions. This is a time when the world needs new engines of growth. From the point of view of the world’s oldest democracy, obviously it would be nice if the new engines are democratic engines. I am happy to tell you that today India is poised to contribute as a new engine of global growth.

A larger Indian economy has multiple benefits for the world. Obviously, India presents a large and growing market. But India is much more than a market. India is

• a reliable partner;
• a source of high quality scientific, engineering and managerial talent;
• a crucible of development ideas and experiments;
• an efficient source of high quality R&D;
• and a testimony that democracy and rapid growth can co-exist.

As India embarks on a new era of development, it needs to learn much from America’s tradition of entrepreneurship and innovation. America remains at the forefront of scientific and technological innovation from

• air traffic control to air quality improvement,
• from drugs to drones,

from hybrid cars to hydro fracking.

Indeed, to me, America is not just a country with a great past; it is a country with an exciting future. I am therefore sure, that ours will be a partnership which sees both nations benefit.

A very unique feature of the Indo-American relationship is the critical role of the Indian-American community in the US economy. It is rare that emigrants from one nation, who become immigrants in another, enjoy such high respect and repute in both countries. Indian-Americans are a powerful cementing force in our growing economic and cultural ties.

I have just completed two years in office. When I addressed you in 2014, I had just taken over the reins of government. We faced a particularly challenging domestic and external environment. Confidence of investors was at a low. Doubts were being expressed about the future of the Indian economy. The business community was unhappy with the inertia and stagnation that had set in. There was frustration with archaic policies and red tape. In 2 years, we have managed to overcome the odds and register an impressive economic performance.

I want to take this opportunity to describe to you the key elements of our policies. I have said several times that my aim is to reform to transform. For me, reforms are those policies that transform the lives of ordinary citizens. In the last two years, we have taken a comprehensive package of reforms which go beyond more economic reforms. I can classify them into four types.

• First, macro-economic policies to create a strong foundation;
• Second, policies to stimulate growth and employment through investment and trade, and to increase efficiency and productivity;
• Third, policies to ensure that growth benefits the poor and the weaker sections of society, including women and farmers;
• Fourth, a frontal attack on corruption.

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Let me start with the macro-economy.

Since we took office, inflation, the fiscal deficit and the balance of payments current account deficit have all fallen. GDP growth, Foreign exchange reserves, stock market valuations, and investor confidence have all increased. This success is the result of a series of well thought out policies. We have legislated a monetary framework with inflation targeting and an independent monetary policy committee to curb inflation. We embarked on a course of fiscal consolidation and our fiscal deficit has been reduced substantially in each of three budgets so far. Even while cutting the fiscal deficit, we have greatly increased productive public investment.

This has been made possible in two ways. Firstly, we imposed carbon taxes on fossil fuels. We took the bold step of de-controlling diesel prices and thereby eliminated energy subsidies. We then replaced them with taxes. A Clean Environment cess has been increased by eight times from Rs.50 per ton to Rs.400 per ton. Globally, there is much talk of carbon taxes but much of it is just that – TALK. We have actually acted. Secondly we have reduced wasteful expenditure through innovative methods and use of technology. Subsidies are increasingly credited directly to bank accounts of the deserving with fool proof biometric identification.

Let me now turn to our policies to stimulate growth and employment. This audience is probably aware of the sweeping liberalization that we have undertaken in foreign direct investment. We have put most sectors on automatic approval and opened up sectors like defence and railways to foreign investment. The long pending insurance law reform was successfully passed. Several insurance companies, including American companies, have already enhanced their investment in the insurance sector. We have taken major steps to increase the ‘Ease of Doing Business’ and have already begun climbing steeply in the global rankings. We are encouraging foreign and domestic investors to set up high quality and efficient manufacturing facilities. We have greatly enhanced investment in roads, railways, ports and waterways to improve logistics. We have made major process improvements in our ports to reduce the time taken for cargo to enter and exit. We admire the start up eco-system in your country. We are making a beginning in replicating it. Our Start-Up India programme has stimulated a new breed of innovators. In 2016, Bengaluru has become the fifth most preferred location for innovation centres. It was not even in the top 10 in 2015.

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For our economy to succeed, we need a strong banking system. We inherited a system where cronyism and corruption were believed to be rampant in banking decisions and in appointments to public sector banks. I held the first ever retreat of a Prime Minister with bankers. We have set up clear performance measures and accountability mechanisms. We are committed to ensuring adequate capital. Interference in banking decisions has ended. A new process for appointments has been put in place under a Bank Boards Bureau. Credible and capable bankers have been appointed to head banks. For the first time since banks were nationalized 47 years ago private sector professionals have been appointed in key positions.

I now turn to our policies to ensure that growth is inclusive. We have brought two hundred million people into the banking system through the Jan Dhan Yojana. This is more than the population of most countries in the world. Now, these millions are part of our banking system, and words like ‘interest rate’ have a meaning for them. These people have shown that there is great strength at the bottom of the pyramid. Believe it or not, accounts opened under the Jan Dhan Yojana today have a total balance of almost six billion dollars.

The Jan Dhan Yojana has also transformed the ability of the poor to make and to receive electronic payments. Every Jan Dhan account holder is eligible for a debit card. India’s banks and post offices are also being encouraged to operate ‘mobile ATMs’. A mobile ATM is one where cash can be drawn and simple banking tasks done through a hand held device.

We have provided a safety net through new social security schemes. We have introduced three non-subsidised but low cost schemes covering accident insurance, life insurance and pensions. Because of their massive coverage the premia are low. There are now over 120 million subscribers. 

We have paid special attention to gender justice and to empowering women. We have a new savings programme to help pay for girls’ education with a special high rate of interest. To relieve rural women from the health hazards of cooking with firewood, we are giving 50 million new gas connections in poor rural areas. Under our new self-employment financing programme (Mudra), over 70% of the beneficiaries are women. More than 27 million new women-headed businesses have been assisted. We have changed our policies to allow women in combat roles in the armed forces. New rules are increasing the representation of women on corporate Boards of Directors.

Agriculture remains India’s mainstay in terms of providing livelihood. There was a tendency to deprive farmers of subsidized fertilizer by diverting it for the production of chemicals. A simple but very effective solution is neem-coating of fertilizer which makes it unsuitable for diversion. We have moved towards universal neem-coating of urea. It has already saved crores of rupees of diverted farm subsidies and improved fertilizer availability to farmers. It is an example of how simple reforms can be very effective. 

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We have introduced a Soil Health Card nationally, which tells every farmer the condition of his or her soil. It enables the farmer to choose the best crop and right quantity and mix of inputs. This greatly reduces wastage of inputs and increases crop yield besides protecting the soil. By reducing unnecessary chemical inputs, it is also good for health of consumers. It reduces costs, increases yields, improves the environment and protects the health of consumers. 140 million soil health cards will be issued, requiring a collection of over twenty-five million soil samples, and tested through a nationwide network of nearly 1500 laboratories. 

This brings me to an achievement that I think even our worst critics do not dispute. This is the change in levels of corruption. For many years, economists and other experts have held corruption to be one of the main constraints on the growth of any developing economy. We have taken decisive steps to curb corruption. I have already referred to what has been done in public sector banks. We removed discretion in allocation of key resources and moved to transparent auctions of mines, spectrum and FM radio licenses and we have plugged leakage through direct benefit transfer. We have revamped our personnel management to ensure that senior positions are held by persons of integrity. We have launched an on-going campaign against tax evasion and black money. The poor are the greatest beneficiaries of the reduction in corruption. 

Looking to the future let me outline what I see as the path we will follow in the coming years. 

Firstly, we will continue to have disciplined and prudent macro-economic policies. I firmly believe that sound macro-economic fundamentals are a necessary foundation for long term sustainable growth. 

Secondly, we will combine this with a continued stress on inclusion and equity. This is to ensure the fruits of development accrue not to a few, not to many but to all Indians. And this will also mean continuing our attack on corruption. 

Thirdly, we will continue to make progress on improving the investment climate and Ease of Doing Business. We want to make India a destination which not only welcomes business but where it is easy to do business. We have largely achieved the first by drastically liberalizing our foreign direct investment policies. We have made a good beginning on the second and will continue to make further improvements. 

We will continue to strengthen the "Make in India” initiative. It is not intended for only manufacturing for the domestic market or import substitution. It is as much about making world-class products and services for the whole globe. That is why, for us, improvements towards free trade are important. It is very important for us that developed countries open their markets, not only to goods from countries like India but also to services. I see this as a win-win proposition for the U.S. and for India. India is the future human resource powerhouse of the world with a young hard-working population. In my vision, a partnership between American capital and innovation, and Indian human resources and entrepreneurship can be very powerful. I am convinced we can strengthen both our economies through such a partnership. 

We will continue to make our tax policies more predictable. We have made major strides towards predictability by signing a number of Advance Pricing Agreements with the United States. We are committed to taking this further. At the same time, like the U.S., we are cracking down on tax evasion and unfair tax avoidance. 

We will continue to open up our defence sector. I am aware that licensing policies can sometimes slow down the process of investing in India’s defence sector. We are exploring a simpler and more efficient project licensing approach for defence. In the field of nuclear energy, we are purchasing six nuclear reactors from Westinghouse which will mark a new era in our nuclear and scientific cooperation. I was delighted when GE became one of the first companies to make a major investment in the newly liberalized railway sector. It is setting up a locomotive manufacturing plant in the relatively poor state of Bihar. I expect many more such investments. 

The river Ganga has a special significance for India. The ‘Namami Gange” programme to clean the river Ganga is on the verge of taking off. It will be a big priority over the coming years. This project offers major opportunities for American companies with their expertise in environmental engineering, water and sewage treatment and the like. This project is a high priority for my Government and our aim is to restore the Ganga to its pristine glory.

Ladies and Gentlemen, we have begun our journey towards a transformed India. A transformed India, with one sixth of humanity will mean a transformed world. The journey will be long. But the progress we have achieved so far, convinces me that we will reach our destination. I invite you to join us on that journey. It is a journey which offers the exciting possibility of not only building a better balance sheet for your company but of building a better India, building a better America, and building a better world.

Thank you.

Ref: http://www.narendramodi.in/category/speeches

Salma dam is a generator of optimism and belief in the future of Afghanistan: PM

I am delighted to return to Afghanistan;

Honoured to be among people who have set the standard of courage for our age;

Privileged to see again the high tide of friendship in this vast ocean of love for India.

This is yet another giant step in Afghanistan’s march to progress.

And, it is a historic moment of emotion and pride in the relations between Afghanistan and India.

Thank you, Mr. President, for your invitation and for naming this dam as Afghanistan-India Friendship Dam. We are truly humbled by the generosity of the Afghan spirit.

Rivers have been bearers of great civilisations of the world. In the flow of rivers runs the course of human progress.

In the Holy Quran, river is central to the image of Paradise.

In the ancient scriptures of India, rivers defined our nation and were celebrated as the giver of life.

And, it is a wise Afghan proverb that says, Kabul be zar basha be barf ne: May Kabul be without gold rather than snow.

For the snow feeds the rivers that sustain life and agriculture.

So, today, we are not just launching a project that will irrigate land and light up homes.

We are reviving a region, restoring hope, renewing life and redefining Afghanistan’s future.

The dam is a generator not just of electricity but also of optimism and belief in the future of Afghanistan.

The project would not just irrigate the fields of six hundred and forty villages in Chiste, Obe, Pashtun Zarghun, Karokh, Gozara, Injil, Zindjan, Kohsan and Ghoryan .

It would also bring light to over two hundred and fifty thousand homes in this area.

Last December, in Kabul, I was moved by the honour of inaugurating the Afghan Parliament Building.

It was a tribute to the epic struggle of the Afghan people to shape their future by vote and debate, not gun and violence.On this summer day, in Herat, we come together to honour and celebrate Afghan determination to build a future of prosperity.Afghans and Indians dreamt of this project in the nineteen seventies. The lost decades speak to us about the ravages of a long drawn war.

It was a war not of Afghan making, but it was one that stole the future of an entire generation of Afghans.

And, when a new dawn broke over Afghanistan in 2001, we resumed the project.

With resolve and patience, courage and belief, we have together overcome distance and hurdles, threats and violence.Today, the brave Afghan people are sending a message that the forces of destruction and death, denial and domination, shall not prevail.

They will not come in the way of the dreams and aspirations of the Afghan people.

The fields that produce the finest fruits and saffron shall once again come alive with the clear waters of the river.

The homes that lived through dark nights of dread will now be lit by the power of hope.

Men and women shall once again work the farms and ply their trade with the joy of hard work, in peace and security.The shoulders that were once weighed down in the shadow of guns would now bear ploughs to turn the land green.

Children shall again believe in the possibility of a future of education and opportunity.

And, another young girl poet will not have to live a life of pain, denial and longing, or see a life of promise cut short. Herat has time and again seen sublime glory and tragic ruin. And, the city that once Jalaluddin Rumi held as the finest, will rise again.

The city that was the gateway to the West, South and Central Asia,will once again be the hub that will unite the regions in a peaceful pursuit of prosperity.

So, to the people and Government of Herat and the Government of Afghanistan, I express our deepest appreciation for your support, patience and understanding – and, above all, your belief in us.

This dam has not been built by bricks and mortar, but by the faith of our friendship and the valour of Afghans and Indians.And, at this moment of pride, we also stand in grief and gratitude for lives sacrificed so that Afghan people will have a future they so richly deserve and so deeply desire.

The blood, sweat and tears of our people are mixed into this earth and have formed between us an eternal bond, written into the soil of this land.

Bonds that remind us of ancient links between this region and India.

For many, the Harirud River is one strand of our connected histories since the ancient Vedic times.

Today, the world will see the Harirud River as an abiding emblem of our commitment to a shared future of progress.And, the Friendship Dam unites us in solidarity as Chishti Sharif joined us in spirit centuries ago.

For, it is from here that the Chishti Silsila or Chishti tradition of Sufism came to India. Its glorious tradition and teachings resonate through the dargahs of Ajmer, Delhi and Fatehpur Sikri.

It draws people from all faiths with its message of love, peace, compassion; of harmony among people of all beliefs; of respect for all of God’s creations; and service to humanity.

Indians and Afghans know that these values, not extremism and violence, define Afghanistan - a nation brimming with poetry of love and spiritual tradition of peace and harmony.

And, these are the values that give the great Afghan people the patience and persistence to seek peace with their own who have chosen the path of violence and also with those who support them.

Afghans have pursued this path, despite the strength of their belief that they can defend their freedom like no other people on this earth.

And, it is on the foundation of these values that Afghans and Indians seek each other, not because they harbour designs against another.

Khwaja Moiunuddin Chishti, the first of the Chishti saints in India, said that human beings must have the affection of the sun, the generosity of the river and the hospitality of the earth.

He not only had the magnificent landscape of his ancestral land in mind, he could also be describing the Afghan people.So, when I came to Kabul in December, in the warmth of your welcome, I saw the kindness of your heart.

In your clear eyes, I saw the deep well of affection for India.

In your smiles, I saw the joy of this relationship.

In the firmness of your embrace, I felt the trust in our friendship.

And, in those memorable hours, India witnessed once again the grace of your people, the beauty of this land and the friendship of a nation.

Today, I return with the gratitude and admiration of 1.25 billion people.

And, a renewed pledge for our partnership.

Together, our partnership has built schools, health centres and irrigation facilities for rural communities.

It has empowered women with skills and the youth with the education to shoulder the responsibility for Afghanistan’s future.

We have joined hands to build roads that bridge the distances of your country, from Zaranj to Delaram, and transmission lines that bring power to your homes.

Now, India’s investment in the port at Chahbahar in Iran will give Afghanistan a new route to the world and a new path to prosperity.

And, to implement that vision,just last month, President Ghani joined President Rouhani of Iran and me in witnessing the signing of the Chahbahar Trade and Transit Agreement between Afghanistan, Iran and India.

The fruits of our friendship are not confined to Kabul, Kandahar , Mazar and Herat. They will never be.

Our cooperation will extend to every part of Afghanistan. Our partnership will benefit every section of Afghan society.

Because across its difficult geography, and across its diversity, and beyond the identities as Pushtuns, Tajiks, Uzbeks and Hazaras, Afghanistan must live and prosper as one.

For, divisions among Afghan people will only help those who seek to dominate the nation from outside.

As we work together, we draw strength and confidence from your deep commitment to protect our partnership from the designs of others.

When our people are under attack, the brave Afghans guard us as their own. They put themselves in the line of fire so that their Indian friends are safe.

This is the nobility of your heart and the strength of your friendship.

I have seen this from the moment I assumed office as Prime Minister.

For on that day, when terrorists launched a massive attack on our Consulate in this city of Herat, the heroic efforts of Afghan soldiers, and of our personnel, saved many lives and prevented a big tragedy.

Mr. President, Friends,

Afghanistan’s success is a deeply held hope and desire of every Indian. It comes from the love and admiration for Afghans in our hearts.

We want to see your democracy strike deep roots; your people unite; and, your economy prosper.

We want to see your art, culture and poetry thrive. And, we want to see your cricketers join the ranks of test players and also seek glory in IPL.

But, it also comes from the recognition that when Afghanistan succeeds, the world will be safer and more beautiful. When the values that define Afghans prevail, terrorism and extremism will be in retreat.

Because we know that extremism and terrorism cannot stop at your border or end at the boundaries of our region.

So, in the spreading unrest of our times, the world cannot forget the brave struggle that the Afghan people are waging - for themselves and our world.

India will not forget or turn away.

As I said then, and I will say it again, your friendship is our honour; your dreams are our duty.

India’s capacity may be limited, but our commitment is without limits.

Our resources may be modest, but our will is boundless.

For others, their commitments may have a sunset clause, but our relationship is timeless.

We face barriers of geography and politics, but we define our path from the clarity of our purpose.

We see resistance and suspicion of others, but our resolve is strong and your faith and trust guides us forward.

Where some doubt your future, we are certain that no force or power can deny the Afghan people the destiny they have chosen, however long and hard the journey may be.

So, on international platforms and in regional forums, we will speak in one voice for the Afghan right to a peaceful, prosperous, united, inclusive and democratic nation.

And, in the fields, villages and cities of Afghanistan, we will work together for that future.

And, whatever happens, in a bright or a dark moment, we will always experience, as Herat’s great Sufi Poet, Hakim Jami, would say, the freshness and happiness of the gentle breeze of friendship.

Thank you for this honour, this affection and this friendship.

Thank you

Ref: http://www.narendramodi.in/category/speeches