Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said India's ambition of becoming a developed nation by 2047 was within reach, citing the country's progress in areas such as space exploration, infrastructure and economic development. He called for sustained efforts to achieve the target, stressing that the centenary of Independence should serve as a milestone for accelerated progress rather than a date until which the country waits.
Addressing journalists at the Diwali Milan programme at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters in New Delhi, Modi said setting a definite timeline could transform the pace and approach of governance.
“Deadlines are important… for individuals, institutions and even the country. We are also working on a deadline of 2047 to achieve Viksit Bharat,” he said.
The Prime Minister noted that the vision of a developed India had existed since Independence, but the decision to set 2047 as a specific target had given it a clear timeline.
“This dream has been there since Independence, but now there is a date. Before India celebrates 100 years of Independence, we have to make our country developed. When a deadline is set, the way we work and the speed of it also changes,” he said.
Modi emphasised that the deadline was intended to create a sense of urgency and encourage immediate action, rather than allow the country to defer its development goals.
PM Modi calls for greater focus on India's achievements
The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of communicating India's progress to audiences across the world, questioning whether the country's achievements and talent were being adequately projected internationally.
“Communication is a key element of the 21st century. We have a wonderful India story to share. But are we using this power? Are we going to the world with the India story?” he asked.
He pointed to India's young population, talent, technological capabilities and affordable data as strengths that could help the country tell its story globally. Modi also urged media organisations to give greater attention to positive developments and individual achievements.
Referring to his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister said he had consistently attempted to bring stories of individual accomplishments and contributions to public attention.
“Through my Mann Ki Baat programme, I continuously try to provide a platform for the achievements of the country and its people,” he said, urging the media to take up similar efforts.
“If the media does this too, it will serve the nation,” he added.
Senior BJP leaders attend Diwali Milan programme
The event was attended by senior BJP leaders, including party president Nitin Nabin, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union minister JP Nadda.
Modi's remarks centred on the importance of setting measurable national goals, maintaining momentum in development and ensuring that India's achievements receive wider recognition both within the country and internationally.