New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu said on Friday that the Indian economy is projected to grow at over twice the average global growth rate despite the warfare and instability prevailing in several parts of the world.
Addressing the nation on the eve of the 80th Independence Day, the President said: “Even in such trying circumstances, our economy is moving ahead as the fastest-growing major economy in the world.”
She highlighted that the uplift of the deprived sections of society in the country has been given priority during the past few years, with more than 25 crore people lifted out of poverty.
Under ‘Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana’, the world’s largest programme of financial inclusion, nearly 59 crore account holders have joined the banking system. Out of these, more than 32 crore account holders are women. Food security has been ensured for more than 80 crore people by providing them with free rations, the President further stated.
She also pointed out that under ‘Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana’, free healthcare coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per year has been provided to 60 crore people. Kisan Samman Nidhi and Kisan Credit Cards have provided support to farmers engaged in activities such as farming, dairy, poultry, fisheries, and beekeeping.
President Murmu said that India has developed the world’s largest and best digital infrastructure. Digital payments are now common even in small rural shops and among street vendors. More than half of the world’s real-time digital transactions take place in India. Together, the people of India and the government have presented an example of digital revolution to the global community. By using technology, the government has provided benefits of welfare schemes to the people in a transparent manner, she added.
She underscored that the country has seen an unprecedented expansion of modern infrastructure in the form of highways, waterways, railways and airways. This is creating opportunities for new enterprises, generating employment, and boosting investor confidence.
“The history of the world bears witness to the fact that development rooted in a strong sense of cultural identity is both rapid and sustainable. We are moving ahead, harmonising our heritage and development,” she remarked.
The President further stated that while moving ahead on the path of modern development, India is also playing a leading role at the global level in protecting the environment. “Our country has achieved some of the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, ahead of schedule. Over the past few years, the development of renewable energy has gained unprecedented momentum.”
She also highlighted that India has entered into Free Trade Agreements with many countries to enhance economic cooperation and strengthen mutual relations.
“We are playing a leading role among the countries of the Global South. Our country has grown in stature on the global stage. We believe in a rules-based international order,” the President said.
Underlining the government’s efforts to empower women, the President said more than 10 crore women are members of Self Help Groups. A target was set to create 3 crore Lakhpati Didis, and this has been achieved. “Now the country is moving towards the goal of creating 3 crore new Lakhpati Didis. About two-thirds of the entrepreneurs who have received financial assistance under ‘MUDRA Yojana’ are women,” she added.
The President further stated that many Indian youth are embracing the culture of job creation as they pursue the path of self-employment. The participation of young entrepreneurs has led to the creation of a strong start-up ecosystem in our country. Major global enterprises are impressed by the talent and dedication of Indian youth and entrust them with leadership roles. Such young achievers have enhanced the reputation of India’s youth power across the world, she added.
–IANS
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