In a recent event in Shimla, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar praised PM Modi’s Leadership, crediting it with significantly enhancing India’s global standing. Speaking to an audience of intellectuals, Jaishankar emphasized that under Modi’s guidance, India’s foreign policy has gained widespread recognition, positioning the country to play a pivotal role as a “Vishvaguru” (world teacher) in the near future.
Jaishankar noted the complexities India has faced on its border with China in recent years, but highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen these borders through modern infrastructure projects. “The Modi government has increased the budget for infrastructural development on the China border from Rs 3,000 crore to Rs 15,000 crore,” Jaishankar said. He detailed the construction of wide, all-weather roads and tunnels across districts bordering China, including Himachal Pradesh.
Addressing geopolitical challenges, Jaishankar cited India’s decision to purchase inexpensive Russian crude oil during the early stages of the Ukraine-Russia war, despite facing international pressure. He also mentioned the pressures faced from China when India joined the Quad group, asserting that India maintained its course to protect its national interests.
Jaishankar also reflected on the Modi government’s record over the past decade, emphasizing its success in countering terrorism and its impact on India’s global image. He urged citizens to elect a stable government, which he said would send a strong message to the world. He highlighted opportunities for Indians abroad and the positive reception of India’s diversity on the global stage, which has boosted tourism, especially in states like Himachal Pradesh due to PM Modi’s Leadership.
Elaborating on the Vibrant Village Programme, Jaishankar discussed efforts to strengthen infrastructure in villages along India’s borders. He also highlighted the citizen-centric foreign policy that has garnered substantial support for India at the United Nations.
Jaishankar pointed to tangible improvements in India’s development metrics over the past decade. “Ten years ago, income tax payers were 3.5 crores. Today, there are more than eight crores. In the last ten years, there have been six crores more subscribers to the Provident Fund. The number of colleges and universities has doubled,” he said. He noted that the construction of highways, railways, airports, and metro systems has significantly improved India’s infrastructure, enhancing the country’s image internationally.
As India undergoes its seven-phase Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeks a third consecutive term. Meanwhile, the opposition INDIA bloc aims to reclaim power. Prime Minister Modi, who is running for a third term from Varanasi, previously won the seat with substantial margins in both the 2014 and 2019 elections. The vote counting is scheduled for June 4, and the outcome will determine the political landscape for the next term.