India has expressed its commitment to inclusive development, stronger representation for developing countries and a rules-based international order.

India’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Abhishek Singh, stated this while delivering the 80th Independence Day address of Indian President, Droupadi Murmu, on Saturday in Abuja.

The high commissioner said that India was moving towards the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, stressing that development must reach all sections of society.

He noted that the country’s progress was driven by the contributions of citizens across all sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture, science, technology, industry, sports and public service.

The Indian envoy also said that India’s development agenda was guided by the principle of ensuring that the benefits of growth reached every individual.

“We are moving ahead towards building Viksit Bharat by the centenary year of our Independence in 2047.

“Guided by the spirit of Antyodaya, it is our resolve to ensure that the fruits of development reach every individual,” he said.

He highlighted India’s progress in poverty reduction, financial inclusion, healthcare and food security, saying more than 250 million people had been lifted out of poverty.

Mr Singh disclosed that nearly 590 million people had been brought into the formal banking system through the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, with more than 320 million beneficiaries being women.

He noted that more than 800 million people were receiving free food grains, while about 600 million people had access to healthcare coverage under the Ayushman Bharat programme.

The envoy further said that India’s digital transformation had also continued to expand, describing digital public infrastructure as a major component of the country’s development.

“More than half of the world’s real-time digital transactions take place in India,” he said.

He said India’s economic growth remained strong despite global instability, noting that the country was expected to maintain its position as the world’s fastest-growing major economy.

Mr Singh also highlighted the expansion of modern infrastructure, including highways, waterways, railways and airports, saying these were creating opportunities for businesses, employment and investment.

He emphasised that India’s national interest remained the foundation of the country’s foreign policy.

Peace, cooperation, dialogue and the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, he said, continued to guide its engagement with other countries.

He also said India was playing a leading role among countries of the Global South and remained committed to strengthening a rules-based international order.

“Our endeavour is to ensure that the global community receives appropriate representation in the United Nations and other multilateral organisations,” he said.

Mr Singh stressed the importance of environmental sustainability, urging citizens to protect natural resources for future generations.

He said India had made significant progress in renewable energy and had achieved some of the Sustainable Development Goals ahead of schedule.

The envoy further described women and youth as important drivers of India’s future, noting that women were increasingly participating in leadership, entrepreneurship, agriculture, education, sports and other sectors.

“More than 10 crore women were members of self-help groups, while the target of creating three crore Lakhpati Didis had been achieved,” he said.

Mr Singh also disclosed that 65 per cent of India’s population was below the age of 35, describing the young population as one of the country’s greatest assets.

He said the government was creating opportunities for young people through education, entrepreneurship, skills development, sports and emerging economic sectors.

The envoy also paid tribute to India’s armed forces and security personnel for their service, while recalling the country’s efforts to combat terrorism and extremism.

He said India’s response to security threats demonstrated the capability of its armed forces and reaffirmed the country’s resolve to protect national interests.

Mr Singh further reflected on India’s independence struggle and the sacrifices made during the partition of the country, paying tribute to the leaders and citizens who contributed to the nation’s freedom and subsequent development.

He urged citizens to remain committed to the values of the Constitution and to contribute to nation-building. 

(NAN)