PMINDIA
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi attended a prayer meet and paid his respects at Gandhi Smriti on the occasion of 150th Birth Centenary of Mahatma Gandhi ,in New Delhi today.
मंत्रिमंडल के मेरे सहयोगी वाणिज्य और उद्योग मंत्री श्री सुरेश प्रभु जी, आवास और शहरी कार्य मंत्री श्री हरदीप सिंह पुरी जी, वाणिज्य और उद्योग राज्यमंत्री श्री सी. आर. चौधरी जी, वाणिज्य मंत्रालय और संबंधित विभागों के अधिकारीगण और यहां उपस्थित अन्य महानुभाव
सबसे पहले मैं आप सभी को वाणिज्य भवन का शिलान्यास होने पर बहुत-बहुत बधाई देता हूं। आज इसका कार्य शुरू हो गया है और जैसा कि मंच पर ही बताया गया है कि अगले वर्ष दिसंबर तक निर्माण का काम पूरा हो जाएगा। मुझे उम्मीद है कि समय की सीमाओं में ही वाणिज्य भवन बनेगा और जल्द से जल्द इसका लाभ लोगों को मिलने लगेगा।
साथियों, समय की बात सबसे पहले मैं इसलिए कर रहा हूं क्योंकि इस सरकार के दौरान जितने भी भवनों का शिलान्यास या उद्घाटन करने का अवसर मुझे मिला, उसमें ज्यादातर में एक बात कॉमन थी। कॉमन ये की इमारतों का निर्माण भी सरकारों के काम करने के तरीकों का प्रतिबिम्ब होता है। न्यू इंडिया की ओर बढ़ते देश और पुरानी व्यवस्थाओं के बीच का फर्क भी इसी से पता चलता है।
साथियों, मैं आपको कुछ उदाहरण देना चाहता हूं। मुझे याद है जब वर्ष 2016 में प्रवासी भारतीय केंद्र का लोकार्पण हुआ, तो उस समय ये बात भी सामने आई थी कि उस केंद्र का ऐलान अटल बिहारी वाजपायी जी के समय हुआ था। बाद में उसे मूर्त रूप में आते-आते 12 साल लग गए।
पिछले साल दिसंबर में जिस डॉक्टर आंबेडकर इंटरनेशनल सेंटर का लोकार्पण हुआ, उसे बनाने का निर्णय भी 1992 में लिया गया था। लेकिन इसका शिलान्यास हुआ वर्ष 2015 में मैंने कहा , कहाँ 1992 कहाँ 2015, इसका लोकार्पण 2017 में हुआ। यानि निर्णय होने के बाद 23-24 साल लग गए, सिर्फ एक सेंटर बनने में।
साथियों, इसी साल मार्च में मैंने Central Information Commission के नए भवन को भी देश को समर्पित किया था। CIC के लिए नए भवन की मांग भी 12 साल से हो रही थी लेकिन इसके लिए भी काम NDA की अभी की सरकार ने ही शुरू करवाया और तय समय में उसे पूरा भी किया।
एक और उदाहरण है अलीपुर रोड में बनी आंबेडकर राष्ट्रीय स्मारक का। दो महीना पहले इसका भी लोकार्पण किया गया है। इस स्मारक के लिए भी बरसों तक चर्चा हुई, अटल जी के समय काम में तेजी भी आई , लेकिन बाद में दस बारह साल सब ठप पड़ गया।
दिल्ली की ये चार अलग-अलग इमारतें, प्रतीक हैं कि जब सरकार silos में काम नहीं होता, जब सारे विभाग, मंत्रालय, silos से निकलकर solution के लिए, एक लक्ष्य को प्राप्त करने के लिए मिलकर काम करते हैं, तो कितना अच्छा और कितना जल्दी परिणाम निकलता है। हर काम को अटकाने-भटकाने-लटकाने की प्रवत्ति से देश अब आगे निकल चुका है।
मुझे खुशी है कि आज इसमें पाँचवाँ प्रतीक जुड़ने की शुरुआत हो गई है। इस वाणिज्य भवन में, एक छत के नीचे, commerce sector के हर क्षेत्र से silos को खत्म करने का कार्य और बेहतर तरीके से किया जाएगा, मेरी यही कामना है। मुझे विश्वास है की यह परिपूर्ण भी होगा|
साथियों, आज भारत समय के बहुत महत्वपूर्ण मोड़ पर खड़ा है। हमारा Demographic Dividendकिसी भी देश के लिए ईर्ष्या का विषय हो सकता है। हमारी democracy को हमारे नौजवान नई ऊर्जा देते हैं। ये नौजवान 21वीं सदी के भारत का आधार हैं। उनकी आशाओं-आकांक्षाओं की पूर्ति, सिर्फ कुछ मंत्रालयों की जिम्मेदारी नहीं बल्कि हम सभी का सामूहिक दायित्व है।
भारत पिछली शताब्दी में औद्योगिक क्रांति का लाभ उठाने से चूक गया था। तब उसकी अनेक वजहें थीं। लेकिन अब उतनी ही वजहें हैं जिनकी वजह से भारत अब इस शताब्दी की औद्योगिक क्रांति का नेतृत्व करने वालों में से एक बन सकता है।चौथी औद्योगिक क्रांति, जिसे 4th Industrial Revolution भी कहते हैं, उसका मुख्य आधार डिजिटल टेक्नोलॉजी है और निश्चित तौर पर भारत इसमें दुनिया के कई देशों से कहीं आगे है।
आज आप वाणिज्य मंत्रालयों के भी जितने लक्ष्यों को देखेंगे, जितने भी कार्यों को देखेंगे, तो उसमें डिजिटल टेक्नोलॉजी की प्रमुखता ही आपको नजर आएगी।
ये वाणिज्य भवन ही देखिए। जिस जमीन पर ये इमारत बनेगी, वो पहले Directorate General of Supplies and Disposal के अधिकार में थी। सौ वर्ष से भी ज्यादा पुराना ये विभाग अब बंद हो चुका है और इसकी जगह ली है डिजिटल तकनीक पर आधारित Government-e-Marketplace- GeMने। सरकार किस तरह से अपनी जरूरत के सामान की खरीद करती है, उस व्यवस्था को GeM ने पूरी तरह से बदल दिया है।
आज की तारीख में1 लाख 17 हजार से ज्यादा छोटे-बड़े विक्रेता, कंपनियां इससे जुड़ी चुकी हैं। इन Sellers को 5 लाख से ज्यादा Orders GeM के माध्यम से दिए जा चुके हैं। बहुत कम समय में GeM पर 8700 करोड़ रुपए के सामान को खरीदा गया है।
जिस तरह GeM ने देश के सुदूर कोने में बैठे छोटे-छोटे उद्मियों को अपने Products सीधे सरकार को बेचने का अवसर मुहैया कराया है, उसके लिए Commerce Ministry प्रशंसा की पात्र है। लेकिन आप लोगों के लिए, मैं इसे एक लंबी यात्रा की शुरुआत मानता हूं।
GeM का विस्तार और कैसे बढ़ाया जाए, कैसे ये देश के MSME सेक्टर, छोटे उद्यमियों को International Commerce की तरफ ले जाए, इस बारे में बहुत कुछ किया जाना बाकी है। आज देश में 40 करोड़ से ज्यादा स्मार्टफोन, इंटरनेट इस्तेमाल करने वालों की बढ़ती हुई संख्या, सस्ता डेटा, आपके कार्यों को और आसान कर रहा है।
साथियों, हमारे यहां कहा गया है- को हि भार: समर्थानाम् किम् दूर व्यवसायिनाम्। यानि जो व्यक्ति शक्तिशाली होता है, उसके लिए कोई चीज भारी नहीं होती। इसी तरह व्यवसायियों के लिए कोई जगह दूर नहीं होती। आज टेक्नोलॉजी ने व्यापार को इतना सुगम बना दिया है कि दूरी दिनोंदिन कम होती जा रही है। ये टेक्नोलॉजी देश के बिजनेस कल्चर में जितनी बढ़ेगी, उतना ही फायदा पहुंचाएगी।
हम देख रहे हैं कि किस तरह एक वर्ष से भी कम समय ने GST देश में बिजनेस का तरीका बदल दिया है। अगर टेक्नोलॉजी नहीं होती, तो क्या ये संभव होता? नहीं। आज GST की वजह से ही देश में Indirect Tax औऱ उससे जुड़ने वाले लोगों का विस्तार बहुत तेजी से हो रहा है।
स्वतंत्रता के बाद से हमारे देश में Indirect Tax सिस्टम से जहां सिर्फ 60 लाख जुड़े हुए थे, वहीं GST के बाद के 11 महीनों में ही अब तक 54 लाख से ज्यादा लोगों ने रजिस्ट्रेशन के लिए आवेदन दिया है और इनमें से 47 लाख से ज्यादा रजिस्टर हो चुके हैं। इस तरह रजिस्टर्ड लोगों की संख्या अब एक करोड़ से ज्यादा हो चुकी है।
ये इस बात को दर्शाता है कि प्रक्रियाओं को सरल करने पर, Minimum Government, Maximum Governance की राह पर चलने पर नतीजे भी आते हैं, और ज्यादा से ज्यादा लोग भी विकास की मुख्यधारा से जुड़ने के लिए कदम बढ़ाते हैं।
साथियों, आप भली-भांति जानते हैं कि पिछले 4 वर्षों में सरकार ने People friendly, Development friendly और Investment friendly माहौल बनाने का निरंतर प्रयास किया है। तमाम वैश्विक चुनौतियों के बावजूद भारत के Macro-Economic Indicators stable बने हुए हैं। Inflation हो, Fiscal Deficit हो, या फिर Current Account Balance, इनमें पहले की सरकारों की तुलना में सुधार हुआ है।
भारत आज दुनिया की अर्थव्यवस्था को आगे बढ़ाने में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभा रहा है। अभी पिछले ही क्वार्टर में देश की विकास दर ने 7.7 प्रतिशत के आंकड़े को Touch किया है। पिछले 4 वर्षों में हुआ विदेशी निवेश, विदेशी मुद्रा का भंडार अपने आप में एक रिकॉर्ड है।
आज भारत FDI Confidence Index में top two emerging market performers में से एक है। Ease of doing Business की रैंकिंग में 142 से 100 नंबर पर पहुंचना, Logistics Performance Index में 19 अंकों का सुधार, Global Competitiveness Index में रैंकिंग 71 से सुधकर 39 पर पहुंचना, Global Innovation Index में 21 अंक का उछाल आना, ये इसी विजन का नतीजा है।
आपकी जानकारी में अवश्य होगा कि हाल ही में भारत ने दुनिया के top 5 Fin Tech countries में भी जगह बना ली है।
लेकिन इन Positive Indicators के साथ ही आगे बहुत बड़ा सवाल ये भी है कि अब आगे क्या? साथियों, सात प्रतिशत, आठ प्रतिशत की विकास दर से आगे बढ़कर हमें डबल डिजिट की विकास दर प्राप्त करने के लक्ष्य पर काम करना है। दुनिया की नजरें आज भारत को इस दृष्टि से भी देख रही हैं कि भारत कितने वर्षों में 5 ट्रिलियन डॉलर के क्लब में शामिल होता है?
मैं मानता हूं कि Commerce Ministry को, आप सभी जिम्मेदार अधिकारीगणों को इन लक्ष्यों को एक चैलेंज की तरह लेना चाहिए। आर्थिक मोर्चे पर की गई ये प्रगति सीधे-सीधे देश के सामान्य नागरिक के जीवन से जुड़ी हुई है।
इसलिए आपने ये भी देखा होगा कि जब भी मैं Ease of Trading, Ease of Doing Businessकी बात करता हूं, वो साथ ही Ease of Livingका विषय भी हमेशा उठाता हूं। आज की Interconnected दुनिया में ये सभी एक दूसरे से जुड़े हुए हैं।
जब बिजली कनेक्शन लेना आसान होता है, कंस्ट्रक्शन को लेकर मंजूरी जल्दी मिलती है, जब उद्योगों को, कंपनियों को प्रक्रियाओं से उलझना नहीं होता, तो इसका लाभ जन सामान्य तक भी पहुंचता है। इसलिए आप लोगों के लिए भी ये एक चैलेंज है कि अब भी जो अलग-अलग सेक्टरों में जो bottleneck बचे हुए हैं, जहां पर silos में काम हो रहा है, उन्हें जितना जल्दी हो सके दूर किया जाए।
विशेषकर Infrasector में जो दिक्कतें आती हैं, high Transaction cost होता है, Manufacturing को बढ़ाने में जो बातें गतिरोध पैदा करती हैं, services का inadequate diversification करती हैं, उन्हें रोका जाना, सुधारा जाना बहुत आवश्यक है।
मुझे खुशी है कि अभी हाल ही में Department of Commerce ने देश के logistics sector के integrated development का बीड़ा उठाया है। ये initiative देश में trade के environment को सुधारने में बहुत बड़ी भूमिका निभाने वाला है।
साथियों, Integrated logistics action plan आज समय की मांग है और New India की जरूरत भी है।Policy में बदलाव करके, जो वर्तमान में Procedures हैं, उन्हें सुधार करके,आज की आधुनिक तकनीक का उपयोग बढ़ाकर इस लक्ष्य को हासिल किया जा सकता है।
मुझे बताया गया है कि Department of Commerce इस दिशा में एक Online Portal पर भी काम कर रहा है। Global Trade में भारत की उपस्थिति को और मजबूत करने के लिए, नई ऊँचाई पर पहुंचाने के लिए सभी मंत्रालयों और सभी राज्यों का एकसाथ मिलकर काम करना भी आवश्यक है। जिसको हम कहते हैं, ‘Whole of Government’ Approach,उसे अपनाए जाने की जरूरत है।
ये भी एक अच्छा कदम है कि Council for Trade Development and Promotion राज्य सरकारों और केंद्र शासित प्रदेशों में International Trade को बढ़ावा देने वाला वातावरण बनाने के लिए काम कर रही है। भारत के Exports को बढ़ाना है तो राज्यों को Active Partner बनाकर ही आगे बढ़ना होगा।
मैं समझता हूं कि राज्यों में State level export strategy का निर्माण करके, उन्हें National Trade Policy के साथ तालमेल करते हुए, आर्थिक सहायता करते हुए, जितने भी stakeholders हैं, उन्हें साथ लेते हुए, इस दिशा में जितनी तेजी से आगे बढ़ेंगे, उतना ही देश का लाभ होगा।
साथियों, International मार्केट में भारत की उपस्थिति को बढ़ाने के लिए जो हमारे Traditional Products और Markets हैं, उन्हें बनाए रखते हुए नए Products और नए Markets पर ध्यान दिया जाना भी बहुत आवश्यक है।हमें देश के भीतर की चुनौतियों के साथ ही देश के बाहर की परिस्थितियों के लिए भी खुद को और मजबूत करना होगा।
जब हम short-term developmental gains और long-term sustainability के बीच एक संतुलन बनाकर चलेंगे तो उसके नतीजे भी दिखाई देंगे।
पिछले साल दिसंबर में Foreign Trade policy से जुड़ा जो Mid Term review किया गया था, उसे भी मैं बहुत सकारात्मक पहल मानता हूं। Incentive बढ़ाकर, MSME सेक्टर की Hand Holding करके निर्यात को बढ़ाने के लिए किया गया हर बदलाव प्रशंसनीय है। ये सीधे-सीधे देश की रोजगार जरूरतों से भी जुड़ा हुआ है।
एक और महत्वपूर्ण विषय है-Product की Quality. यही वजह है कि साल 2014 में मैंने 15 अगस्त को लाल किले से Zero Defect, Zero Effect का आह्वान किया था। उद्योग छोटा हो या बड़ा, हर मैन्यूफैक्चरर को इस बात के लिए प्रेरित किया जाना चाहिए कि वो ऐसे Products बनाए, जिसमें Zero Defect हो, कोई हमारे exported goods को वापस न भेजे। इसके साथ ही मैंने Zero Effect की बात की थी, यानि हमारे Products पर्यावरण पर कोई negative effect न डालें।
Products की Quality को लेकर ये जागरूकता Make in India की चमक बढ़ाने और New India की पहचान को मजबूत करने का काम करेगी।
आप भी जब देखते होंगे कि जहां 2014 में हमारे देश में सिर्फ 2 मोबाइल मैन्यूपैक्चरिंग कंपनियां थीं, वो अब बढ़कर 120 हो गई हैं, बहुत ही कम कीमत पर विश्व स्तर के QualityProduct का निर्माण कर रही हैं, तो खुद को गौरवांवित महसूस करते होंगे।
साथियों, ये समय संकल्प का है, चुनौतियां स्वीकारने का है।
क्या Department of Commerce ये संकल्प ले सकता है की विश्व के कुल निर्यात में भारत के योगदान को बढ़ाकर दोगुना करे, अभी के 1.6 प्रतिशत से बढ़ाकर कम से कम 3.4 प्रतिशत तक ले जाए। ये world economy मेंGDP के भारत के योगदान के बराबर होगा। इस से देश में रोज़गार के और नए अवसर बनेंगे और हमारी per capita इनकम में भी बढ़ोतरी होगी।
इसके लिए सरकार के सभी विभागों और यहाँ उपस्थित एक्सपोर्ट प्रमोशन काउंसिल्स के सभी लोगों को मिलकर प्रयास करना होगा।
इसके अलावा एक और संकल्प लिया जा सकता है इम्पोर्ट को लेकर। क्या हम कुछ चुने हुए क्षेत्रों में इम्पोर्ट पर अपनी निर्भरता को कम कर सकते हैं? चाहेवो एनर्जी इम्पोर्ट हो, इलेक्ट्रॉनिक गुड्स का इम्पोर्ट हो, डिफेन्स मैन्युफैक्चरिंग का क्षेत्र हो या मेडिकल devices का क्षेत्र हो। Make in india के द्वारा ये संभव है।
डोमेस्टिकमैन्यूफैक्चरिंग के द्वारा इम्पोर्ट में 10% की कमी देश में साढ़े तीन लाख करोड़रुपए कीआय बढ़ा सकती है। ये देश की GDP में वृद्धि को डबल डिजिट में ले जाने में एक Effective tool बन सकती है।
मैं आपको इलेक्ट्रॉनिक गुड्स की मैन्यूफैक्चरिंग का ही उदाहरण देना चाहता हूं। क्या ये आप सभी लोगों के लिए एक चुनौती नहीं है कि देश में इलेक्ट्रॉनिक गुड्स की कुल मांग का 65 प्रतिशत हमें बाहर से खरीदना पड़ता है?
जैसा मोबाइल फोन के क्षेत्र में हुआ है, वैसे हीक्या आप इस चुनौती को स्वीकार कर, देश को इलेक्ट्रॉनिक गुड्स की मैन्यूफैक्चरिग में आत्मनिर्भर बना सकते हैं?
साथियों, आप इससे भी परिचित हैं कि इम्पोर्ट पर निर्भरता को कम करने की दिशा में एक बहुत महत्वपूर्ण कदम पिछले वर्ष उठाया गया है। Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India)आदेश के द्वारा सरकार के तमाम विभागों और संस्थानों में खरीदी जा रही वस्तुओं और सेवाओं के Domestic Source से खरीदने पर बल दिया जा रहा है। इस आदेश को पूरी गंभीरता के साथ लागू करने का प्रयास किया जाना चाहिए।
इसके लिए आप सभी लोगों को, सरकार के सभी निकायों को, अपनी मॉनीटरिंग व्यवस्था को, इस आदेश के पालन के लिए और सुदृढ़ करना होगा।
घरेलू उत्पादन बढ़ाने के लिए सरकार ने कई और अहम फैसले भी लिए हैं। वो चाहे regulatory framework हों, regulatory frameworkमें सरलता लाने की बात हो, investor friendly policyहो, इंफ्रास्ट्रक्चर और लॉजीस्टिक्स पर बल हो, ये सभी इसलिए किया जा रहा है ताकि भारत आत्मनिर्भर बने, 21वीं सदी की औद्योगिक क्रांति में एक कदम भी पीछे न रह जाए।
Make in India के साथ बढ़ता ये गौरव, नए बनने वाले वाणिज्य भवन का भी गौरव बढ़ाए, मेरी यही कामना है।
साथियों, यहां आने से पहले एक और शुभ कार्य आप लोगों ने मुझसे कराया है। इस परिसर में मौलश्री या बकुल के पौधे को लगाने का सौभाग्य मुझे मिला। मौलश्री की बहुत पौराणिक मान्यता है, कितने ही औषधीय गुणों से संपन्न है और इसका वृक्ष सालों-साल छाया देता है। मुझे बताया गया है कि इसके अलावा भी यहां करीब हजार पेड़ और लगाए जाने की योजना है।
नए बनने वाले वाणिज्य भवन का, प्रकृति के साथ ये संवाद, उसमें काम करने वाले लोगों को भी स्फूर्त रखेगा, उन्हें राहत देगा।
पर्यावरण के लिए अनुकूल, लेकिन आधुनिक तकनीक से संपन्न वातावरण में आप सभी न्यू इंडिया के लिए अपना श्रेष्ठतम दें, Best Effort करें, इसी कामना के साथ मैं अपनी बात समाप्त करता हूं।
एक बार फिर आप सभी को वाणिज्य भवन के निर्माण का काम शुरू होने पर बहुत-बहुत बधाई।
धन्यवाद !!!
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today laid the foundation stone for Vanijya Bhawan, a new office complex for the Union Government’s Department of Commerce, at New Delhi.
The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the building will be completed well within the stipulated time. He emphasized that this would be in keeping with the spirit of New India, and moving away from old practices, under which important building projects, even in the Capital, had been inordinately delayed. In this context, he mentioned the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, the Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial, the Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra and the new office building for the Central Information Commission.
He said that this is also the result of breaking silos within the working of the Government. He hoped that the new office building – Vanijya Bhawan – would further facilitate elimination of silos in India’s commerce sector. Speaking about the country’s demographic dividend, the Prime Minister said that it is our collective responsibility to fulfil the aspirations of our youth.
Talking of adoption of digital technology, the Prime Minister remarked that the land on which the new building is being constructed, was earlier occupied by the Directorate General of Supplies and Disposal. This has now been replaced by the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), which has seen transactions worth Rs. 8700 crore in a short time, he added. He urged the Department of Commerce to work towards further expansion of GeM, and leverage it for the benefit of the country’s MSME sector. He also spoke of the benefits of GST, and said the Union Government is making constant efforts to create a people-friendly, development-friendly and investment-friendly environment.
The Prime Minister mentioned various macro-economic parameters, and other indicators to explain how the India is now playing an important role in the global economy. He said India is now among the top five fin-tech countries, globally. He said subjects such as “Ease of Trading,” and “Ease of Doing Business,” are all related to “Ease of Living” in an interconnected world.
The Prime Minister emphasized the need for an increase in exports, and said that States must be made active partners in this effort. He said the Department of Commerce must resolve to raise India’s share in total global exports to at least 3.4 percent, from the current 1.6 percent. Similarly he said, efforts must be made to raise domestic manufacturing output, to reduce imports. In this context, he gave the example of electronics manufacturing. He said the Union Government has taken a number of steps to boost domestic manufacturing.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today addressed the inaugural session of the 90th Annual General Meeting of FICCI.
He recalled that around the time of FICCI’s founding in 1927, Indian Industry had united against the Simon Commission that was constituted by the then British Government. He said that Indian Industry had joined all other sections of Indian society, in national interest, at that time.
The Prime Minister said that a similar atmosphere exists today when people of the country are coming forward to fulfill their responsibilities towards the nation. He said the hopes and aspirations of people are to rid the country from internal problems like corruption, and black money. He said political parties and chambers of industry should keep in mind the country’s requirements and the feelings of the people, and work accordingly.
The Prime Minister said that a lot has been achieved since independence, but several challenges have arisen as well. He said the poor seemed to be struggling against the system that came to be established, for things such as bank accounts, gas connections, scholarships, pensions etc. He said the Union Government is working to end this struggle, and to create a system that is transparent and sensitive. He said the Jan Dhan Yojana is one example of this, and increasing “ease of living” has been the focus of the Union Government. He also mentioned the Ujjwala Yojana, construction of toilets under the Swachh Bharat Mission, and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. He said that he has come through poverty, and understands the need to work for the requirements of the poor and the nation. He also mentioned the Mudra Yojana, for collateral-free loans to entrepreneurs.
The Prime Minister said that the Union Government is working to strengthen the banking system. He said the issue of NPAs is a legacy received by the current Government. He said, rumours are now being spread about the Financial Regulation and Deposit Insurance (FRDI) Bill. He said the Government is working to protect the interests of the account holders, but rumours that are being spread are the exact opposite. He said organizations such as FICCI have a responsibility to generate awareness about such issues. He said, that similarly, FICCI has a role to play in making GST more effective. He said the Government’s effort is to ensure that maximum businesses register for GST. He said the more formal the system becomes, the more it will benefit the poor. It will enable easier availability of credit from the banks, and reduce cost of logistics, thereby enhancing competitiveness of businesses. I hope FICCI has some plan to generate large-scale awareness among small traders, he added. He also said that FICCI must also voice concerns, when necessary, on issues such as builders exploiting the common man.
The Prime Minister mentioned policy decisions taken in sectors such as urea, textile, civil aviation, and health, and the benefits achieved from them. He also mentioned reforms in sectors such as defence, construction, food-processing etc. He said that as a result of these measures, India’s rank has risen from 142 to 100, in the World Bank “Ease of Doing Business” rankings. He also mentioned other indicators which point to the robust health of the economy. He said that the steps taken by the Government are also playing a key role in job creation.
The Prime Minister said FICCI has a key role to play in sectors such as food processing, start-ups, artificial intelligence, solar power, healthcare etc. He urged FICCI to play the role of a think-tank for the MSME sector.
1. At the invitation of H.E. U Htin Kyaw, President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of the Republic of India, is paying his first bilateral State visit to the Republic of the Union of Myanmar from 5th to 7th September 2017. The visit is part of the continuing high level interaction between the leaders of the two countries and follows successive State visits to India last year by H.E. President U Htin Kyaw and H.E. State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.
2. Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Palace in Nay Pyi Taw on 5th September 2017. He paid a courtesy call on the President of Myanmar, who hosted a State Banquet in his honour. On 6th September 2017, the Indian delegation led by Prime Minister Modi held bilateral talks with the Myanmar delegation led by State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. The talks were held in a warm, cordial and constructive atmosphere as befits the close and friendly relations between the two countries. Thereafter, the State Counsellor and the Indian Prime Minister witnessed the signing and exchange of various documents between Myanmar and India in the areas of health, culture, capacity building, maritime security and collaboration between key institutions and held a Joint Press Conference.
3. Apart from his official engagements in Nay Pyi Taw, Prime Minister Modi will visit places of historical and cultural importance at Bagan and Yangon. In Bagan, he will visit the holy and historic Ananda Temple, where restoration work is being carried out by Indian and Myanmar archaeologists under the expert guidance of the Archaeological Survey of India. In Yangon, he will pay his respects to the memory of General Aung San at the Martyrs’ Mausoleum and also visit the Bogyoke Aung San Museum as well as other prominent sites. He will interact with the Indian origin and expatriate Indian community of Myanmar during his stay in Yangon.
During the talks, the two leaders reviewed developments since the very successful State visits of the President and the State Counsellor of Myanmar to India in August and October 2016 respectively. They reviewed ongoing official exchanges, economic, trade and cultural ties, as well as people-to-people exchanges that reflect the harmony between Myanmar’s independent, active and non-aligned foreign policy and India’s pragmatic Act East and Neighbourhood First policies. They pledged to pursue new opportunities to further deepen and broaden bilateral relations for the mutual benefit of the people of both countries. They reaffirmed their common aspirations for peace, collective prosperity and development of the region and beyond.
4. The Prime Minister of India appreciated the measures taken by the Government of Myanmar towards peace and national reconciliation and commended the on-going peace process of the Government of Myanmar. He noted that peace and stability in Myanmar are of the highest priority to India and reiterated India’s continued support to the Government of Myanmar in consolidating democratic institutions in Myanmar and for the emergence of a democratic Federal Republic.
5. The two leaders discussed the security situation prevailing along their borders and expressed concern at various incidents of terrorism and extremist-inspired violence that have taken place in their respective territories. Recognizing that terrorism remains one of the most significant threats to peace and stability in the region, both sides condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and agreed that the fight against terrorism should target not only terrorists, terror organisations and networks, but also identify, hold accountable and take strong measures against States and entities that encourage, support or finance terrorism, provide sanctuary to terrorists and terror groups, and falsely extol their virtues. Myanmar condemned the recent barbaric terror attacks during the Amarnath Yatra in India as also various acts of terror perpetrated by terrorists from across the borders. India condemned the recent terrorist attacks in northern Rakhine State, wherein several members of the Myanmar security forces lost their lives. Both sides agreed that terrorism violates human rights and there should, therefore, be no glorification of terrorists as martyrs. They called on the international community to end selective and partial approaches to combating terrorism and, in this regard, jointly called for the expeditious finalization and adoption of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism by the United Nations General Assembly.
Recognising that maintenance of security and stability along the common border is essential for the socio-economic development of the peoples of the border areas, Myanmar reaffirmed its respect of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India and steadfastly upheld the policy of not allowing any insurgent group to utilise Myanmar’s soil to undertake hostile acts against the Indian Government. Myanmar also appreciated Government of India for upholding the same principle.
6. Both sides reiterated their mutual respect for the already demarcated boundary between the two countries and emphasised the need to resolve outstanding boundary demarcation issues as fast as possible through existing bilateral mechanisms and consultations.
7. Both sides reviewed the security situation in their immediate neighborhood and agreed upon the special need for enhancing closer bilateral cooperation in maritime security. They also agreed to foster mutually beneficial and deeper defence cooperation between the two countries and, in this context, noted with satisfaction the recent successful visit of the Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces of Myanmar to India. Besides institutionalized cooperation through regular coordinated patrolling initiatives, they agreed to focus on bilateral maritime cooperation in non-traditional security domains, such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, which are critical for safeguarding the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean as global commons.
8. Both sides pledged that Myanmar and India will maintain the already-achieved mutual understanding and growing bilateral relations between the two countries and that they will stand by each other as good and trustworthy neighbours in the years ahead in the interest of both peoples and the region.
9. The two sides noted with satisfaction the continued exchange of high-level visits that has fostered better mutual understanding of outstanding bilateral issues. They appreciated the regular holding of sector specific institutional mechanisms in the areas of security and defence, trade and commerce, power and energy, border management and connectivity etc. for effective follow-up of decisions taken at the highest political levels. They also noted with pleasure the excellent exchanges between Indian and Myanmar Parliamentarians and encouraged them to further enhance such interaction.
10. The Myanmar side expressed its heartfelt appreciation to Government of India for all the assistance rendered to Myanmar in support of its endeavour for socio-economic development. Both sides reviewed on-going cooperation projects being executed with technical and financial assistance from the Government of India, noting that these were directly associated with the benefit of the Myanmar people, and agreed that these should be expedited. Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s abiding commitment to supporting Myanmar in its efforts to build infrastructure and develop human resources capacity. Alluding to the positive experience of the Industrial Training Centres set up with Indian assistance in Pakokku and Myingyan, the Myanmar side thanked India for the support being extended to develop two more Centres at Monywa and Thaton respectively as well as the assistance for a five year comprehensive maintenance plan for ITC, Myingyan. They also expressed appreciation for the support offered by India to upgrade the Myanmar-India Entrepreneurship Development Centre and the Centre for English Language Training at Yangon. The two sides also agreed to continue discussion towards the establishment of a Planetarium at a suitable location in Myanmar, recognizing that this would be a valuable institution that would nurture a scientific temper amongst the Myanmar youth.
11. The two sides shared the view that the situation in Rakhine State had a developmental as well as a security dimension. In this context, they agreed to bring about overall socio-economic development in the State by undertaking both infrastructure and socio-economic projects, particularly in the spheres of education, health, agriculture and allied activities, agro-processing, community development, construction of small bridges, upgradation of roads, small power projects, livelihood activity, setting up of training centres, promotion of household crafts, conservation of environment and cultural heritage. Myanmar welcomed India’s offer of assistance under the Rakhine State Development Programme and the two sides agreed to finalize the implementation modalities within the next few months
12. The two sides noted with satisfaction the cooperation in the field of agricultural research and education, especially through the rapid progress in operationalizing the Advanced Centre for Agricultural Research and Education set up at the Yezin Agricultural University and the Rice Bio Park set up at the Department of Agricultural Research. It also appreciated India’s assistance for facilitating post graduation and doctoral education in agricultural sciences for candidates from Myanmar.
13. The two sides expressed satisfaction at the ongoing capacity building programmes for Myanmar judicial officers, military personnel and police. Myanmar thanked India for the extended period of support to the Myanmar Institute of Information Technology and the India-Myanmar Centre for Enhancement of IT Skills. They agreed that India would extend regular training to Myanmar diplomats at the Foreign Service Institute, New Delhi. Myanmar welcomed India’s offer to enrol two Myanmar diplomats every year for training at the Kendriya Hindi Sansthan while 150 Myanmar civil servants would undergo training in English language at Indian training institutes every year for a period of five years.
14. Recognizing the need to further upgrade the training infrastructure and capacity building of Myanmar Police, the two leaders welcomed the signing of the Memorandum on Upgradation of the Women’s Police Training Center at Yamethin in Myanmar with technical and financial assistance of Government of India. Myanmar welcomed India’s offer to help set up a training centre for police officers in Yangon and it was decided that modalities would be jointly worked out.
15. Myanmar thanked India for supporting various projects in Myanmar that enhance bilateral as well as regional connectivity like the Kaladan Multi Modal Transit Transport Project and other road and bridge construction projects as fully funded grant-in-aid projects. Myanmar appreciated the substantial progress made on the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project with the completion of works on the Sittwe Port and the Paletwa Inland Water Transport Terminal and the handing over of six cargo barges to the Myanmar Port Authority and Inland Water Transport. The two sides agreed to enter into an MoU on appointing a port operator that may include both sides to be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the port in keeping with the practice that has been adopted at other international ports in Myanmar. This would enable the Port and IWT infrastructure to be used commercially and promote development of the surrounding areas even as the final component of the project, the road from Paletwa to Zorinpui, is under construction. Both sides noted with satisfaction that work on the road was already underway and agreed to facilitate movement of project personnel, construction material and equipment across the border through Zorinpui and Paletwa. They also noted that construction work would shortly begin on reconstruction of bridges on the Tamu-Kyigone-Kalewa Road and on the Kalewa-Yargyi sector of the Trilateral Highway. The two sides have agreed upon the alignment of the Rih-Tedim road and the DPR for its construction. Further steps on construction of the Putao-Myitkyina and Alethankyaw-Ahungmaw roads under available LOC would be taken after DPRs are made available by Myanmar. In response to Myanmar’s request, India agreed to undertake preparation of DPRs for the Rihkhawdar-Zowkhathar bridge and the Bwaynu bridge.
16. The two sides also reviewed projects in the field of health and noted with satisfaction that work on the upgradation of Yangon Childrens’ Hospital and Sittwe General Hospital and on construction of Monywa General Hospital had been completed. They agreed to start consultations to establish and operate a state-of-the-art hospital in Nay Pyi Taw in association with one of the leading Indian hospital groups, based on modalities to be mutually decided.
17. Both sides deliberated on the progress made in utilization of US$ 500 million concessional Line of Credit extended by India to Myanmar in 2012. Noting that the projects to be implemented under the Line of Credit would help augment the physical infrastructure in vital areas and enhance capacities in agriculture and transport, they resolved to implement mutually agreed projects expeditiously.
Both sides expressed that, in order to derive full value from these infrastructure projects, the institutional arrangements related to connectivity needed to be put in place on priority. In this regard, they noted the importance of concluding a bilateral agreement that would enable motor vehicle traffic, both passenger and cargo, to cross the border.
18. Both sides underlined the need for bringing about greater integration of power and energy supply networks between India and Myanmar. Myanmar welcomed India’s participation in its energy sector both in exploration and production and invited Indian companies to participate in tenders for petrochemicals and petroleum products, marketing infrastructure and setting up of LPG terminals. India informed that leading Indian oil and gas companies are in the process of opening their offices in Myanmar. The two sides applauded the agreement reached by Numaligarh Refinery of India and Parami Energy Group of Myanmar on supply of diesel to Myanmar across the land border, noting that this will give the people of north Myanmar cheaper and more reliable access to petroleum products, and also encouraged both sides to collaborate in storage and retail marketing of petroleum products in Myanmar. The first consignment of the high speed diesel reached Myanmar on 4th September 2017.
19. India also expressed its readiness to extend technical as well as project-specific assistance to conventional as well as renewable energy-based power development projects identified by Government of Myanmar. In addition to the earlier offer to conduct a feasibility study for development of solar parks in Myanmar, India offered to conduct a solar radiation resource assessment in Myanmar. The two sides discussed ways to cooperate in the field of energy efficiency between the two countries. Myanmar thanked India for the technology demonstration projects being undertaken through Energy Efficiency Services Ltd. of India to introduce LED-based energy efficient lighting in key townships and buildings identified by Myanmar in Nay Pyi Taw, Bago region and Rakhine State. India shared its experiences in power trade and expressed its interest in examining possible cooperation in this area with Myanmar. It was agreed that these and other relevant issues would be taken up at an early meeting of the Joint Steering Committee on Power and other forums. In view of the immense benefits that would accrue to participating countries, Myanmar promised to give careful consideration to India’s suggestion to join the Framework Agreement for the establishment of the International Solar Alliance.
20. The two sides noted the current level of bilateral trade and investment and agreed that, while robust, it has potential for growth. In this regard, they emphasized the need to improve market access by removing all trade barriers with a view to facilitate trade between the two countries. They expressed satisfaction with the conclusions reached at the 6th meeting of Myanmar-India Joint Trade Committee held in New Delhi, India in June, 2017 and agreed to continue holding of meetings on Border Trade Committee and Border Haats Committee.
India welcomed Myanmar’s desire to seek cooperation with it to develop Myanmar’s textile sector covering standardization, inspection and quality recommendations, research & development, human resource development and capacity building .
21. The two sides acknowledged the importance of pulses in the bilateral trade basket, and the implications this trade has for the Myanmar farmers and Indian consumers. In this context, the State Counsellor expressed grave concern at the recent notification issued by India imposing quantitative restrictions on various categories of pulses and requested Prime Minister of India to lift all restrictions on imports from Myanmar in view of the bonds of friendship and long term interests of the two peoples and nations. The Indian Prime Minister responded that it was important to work out long term arrangements whereby the interests of both the peoples could be safeguarded in future.
22. The two sides welcomed the successful negotiations and finalization of the agreement on border crossing which will help in regulating and harmonizing movement of people across the common land border and thus promote bilateral trade and tourism and directed their senior officials to expeditiously conclude the formalities for its signature. Leaders of both countries agreed to negotiate and swiftly conclude an agreement on commencing a coordinated bus service between the two countries from Imphal in India to Mandalay in Myanmar.
23. They shared the view that enhanced air connectivity between the two countries will boost people-to-people contacts as well as promote greater tourism, trade and investment flows. The leaders also agreed that a DPR would be prepared by Airports Authority of India through the close cooperation with Department of Civil Aviation(DCA) of Myanmar for development of Pakokku Airport or Kalay Airport with financial and technical assistance from India. They also welcomed Government of India’s offer of customized training and capacity building programmes for Air Traffic Controllers of Myanmar in India. The leaders directed their respective officials to also explore the feasibility of construction of a rail link between Tamu and Mandalay in Myanmar. It was agreed that a team from India would be deputed to study and prepare a DPR for the rail link between Tamu and Mandalay.
24. Both sides recognized the importance of establishing mutually agreed procedures for the rescue and rehabilitation of victims of human trafficking. In this context, they welcomed the finalization of the MoU on Cooperation for Prevention of Human Trafficking and conveyed their intent to conclude it at the earliest.
25. The two leaders emphasized the centrality of culture in further deepening the close bonds between the peoples of India and Myanmar and expressed satisfaction with the signature of the Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) for the period 2017-20. They expressed confidence that the CEP would also promote cultural exchanges between the North Eastern States of India and the bordering areas of Myanmar. India also confirmed that 2 slots would be made available annually for Myanmar archaeologists for advanced studies at the Indian Institute of Archaeology, New Delhi.
The Indian side conveyed that the project being undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of India to preserve and conserve stone inscriptions and temples of King Mindon and King Bagyidaw of Myanmar in Bodh Gaya is at an advanced stage and would be completed by December 2017. The Myanmar side welcomed this information noting that these temples constitute an important aspect of India-Myanmar cultural heritage.
26. Myanmar welcomed India’s assistance in the socio-economic development of Bagan while preserving and conserving its heritage. Prime amongst these is the project to restore and conserve 92 ancient pagodas and structures in Bagan through the Archaeological Survey of India. The two sides welcomed the finalization of an MoU in this regard. Other projects proposed to be undertaken as India-Myanmar cooperation projects are those of setting up of “Bagan Haat” as a hub of Myanmar craft, food and cultural activities, LED-based street lighting, rain water harvesting for sustainable water management, training for alternative income generation for the people of Bagan and upgradation of identified schools.
27. Myanmar expressed deep appreciation to India for the decision taken by the Government of India to give Myanmar nationals gratis visa in all categories, except e-visa.
28. The Government of Myanmar thanked India for its decision to grant special pardon to 40 Myanmar nationals who are currently undergoing imprisonment in India for various crimes. This gesture was deeply appreciated by both the Government and the people of Myanmar, especially by the families of those who will be released from Indian jails.
Recognising the importance of the role played by the media in fostering and supporting democracy, both sides welcomed the conclusion of the Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation between the Press Council of India and the Myanmar Press Council. Activities under this framework will encourage exchanges between journalists and promote better understanding of political and economic developments in India and Myanmar.
29. Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepen regional cooperation to maximize the mutuality of interests and to ensure equitable share of mutual benefits in all areas, including trade, transport and energy. They recognized the importance of various regional/sub-regional collaborative initiatives to improve the lives and livelihoods of all people across the two countries.
30. India and Myanmar reaffirmed their commitment to work closely in the UN and other multilateral organizations. They underscored the importance of coordinating their positions on multilateral issues of common interest. Both sides reiterated the importance of a strong United Nations and emphasized the need for an early reform of the Security Council. They reaffirmed their commitment to support the Inter-Governmental Negotiations for comprehensive reforms of the Security Council. Myanmar reiterated its support for India’s efforts to become permanent member of an expanded and reformed UN Security Council. The two sides also reaffirmed their commitment to work together particularly in the international arena to strengthen the means of implementation as enshrined in the SDGs 2030. The two sides stressed the importance of objectivity and impartiality of the United Nations and its specialized agencies in pursuing their work.
31. Both sides underscored the need for strengthening and reform of multilateral financial institutions and enhancing the voice and participation of developing countries in international economic decision-making.
India and Myanmar expressed firm commitment to set an example of good neighbourliness in the region. They emphasized that they must continue to progress together. They therefore agreed to promote shared interests of the peoples of the two countries so as to live together harmoniously and in a mutually beneficial inter-dependent environment.
32. Prime Minister Modi thanked the President of Myanmar for the warm and gracious hospitality extended to him and his delegation during their stay in Myanmar.
33. Prime Minister Modi also invited State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi to visit India at a mutually convenient time. The State Counsellor of Myanmar expressed her deep appreciation for the invitation.
President of the African Development Bank
Secretary-General of the African Union
Commissioner of the African Union Commission
My Cabinet colleague Shri Arun Jaitley
Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri Vijay Rupani
Distinguished guests and brothers and sisters from Africa
Ladies and Gentlemen
We are gathered today in the state of Gujarat. The Gujarati flair for business is well known. Gujaratis are also famous for their love of Africa! As an Indian and a Gujarati, I am very happy that this meeting is being held in India and that too in Gujarat.
India has had strong ties with Africa for centuries. Historically, communities from western India, especially Gujarat, and the eastern coast of Africa have settled in each other’s lands. The Siddhis of India are said to have come from East Africa. The Bohra communities in coastal Kenya date back to the twelfth century. Vasco da Gama is said to have reached Calicut with the help of a Gujarati sailor from Malindi. The dhows of Gujarat took merchandise in both directions. Ancient links between societies have also enriched our cultures. The rich Swahili language includes many Hindi words.
During the colonial era, thirty-two thousand Indians came to Kenya to build the iconic Mombasa Uganda railway. Many lost their lives during its construction. Around six thousand of them stayed back and brought their families. Many of them started small businesses called “dukas” and came to be known as the “dukkawalas”. During the colonial years, merchants, artisans and later officials, teachers, doctors and other professionals went to East and West Africa creating a vibrant community which combines the best of India and Africa.
Mahatma Gandhi, another Gujarati, perfected his tools of non-violent struggle in South Africa. He also visited Tanzania in 1912 along with Gopal Krishna Gokhale. Several leaders of Indian origin supported strongly, and fought alongside, the leaders of Africa’s struggles for independence, including Mr. Nyerere, Mr. Kenyatta, and Nelson Mandela. After the freedom struggle, several leaders of Indian origin were also appointed in the Cabinets of Tanzania and South Africa. There are at least six Tanzanians of Indian origin who are now serving as Members of Parliament in Tanzania.
The trade union movement of East Africa was started by Makhan Singh. It was during the trade union meetings that the first call for Kenyan independence was sounded. M. A. Desai and Pio Gama Pinto participated actively in Kenya’s independence struggle. The then Prime Minister Pandit Nehru sent an Indian Member of Parliament Diwan Chaman Lall to be part of Mr. Kenyatta’s defence team, when the latter was imprisoned and tried during the Kapenguria trial in 1953. The defence team included two other persons of Indian origin. India was steadfast in its support for Africa’s freedom. Nelson Mandela said, and I quote, “India came to our aid when the rest of the world stood by or gave succour to our oppressors. When the doors of international Councils were closed to us, India opened the way. You took up our battles, as if they were your own.”
Over decades, our ties have become stronger. After assuming office in 2014, I have made Africa a top priority for India’s foreign and economic policy. The year 2015 was a watershed. The third India Africa Summit held that year was attended by all fifty-four African countries having diplomatic relations with India. A record forty-one African countries participated at the level of Heads of State or Government.
Since 2015, I have visited six African Countries, South Africa, Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya, Mauritius and Seychelles. Our President has visited three countries, Namibia, Ghana and Ivory Coast. The Vice-President visited seven countries, Morocco, Tunisia, Nigeria, Mali, Algeria, Rwanda and Uganda. I am proud to say that there is no country in Africa that has not been visited by an Indian Minister in the last three years. Friends, from a time when we mainly had mercantile and maritime links between Mombasa and Mumbai, we have today
• this Annual meeting which connects Abidjan and Ahmedabad
• business links between Bamako and Bangalore
• cricketing links between Chennai and Cape Town
• development links between Delhi and Dakar.
This brings me to our development cooperation. India’s partnership with Africa is based on a model of cooperation which is responsive to the needs of African countries. It is demand-driven and free of conditions.
As one plank of this cooperation, India extends lines of credit through India’s Exim Bank. 152 credits have been extended to 44 countries for a total amount of nearly 8 billion dollars.
During the Third India-Africa Forum Summit, India offered 10 billion dollars for development projects over the next five years. We also offered grant assistance of 600 million dollars.
India is proud of its educational and technical ties with Africa. Thirteen current or former Presidents, Prime Ministers and Vice Presidents in Africa have attended educational or training institutions in India. Six current or former chiefs of armed forces in Africa trained in India’s military institutions. Two current Ministers of the Interior have attended Indian institutions. Under the popular India Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme, more than thirty three thousand scholarships have been offered to officials from African countries since 2007.
One of our best partnerships in the area of skills is the training of “solar mamas”. Every year eighty African women are trained in India to work on solar panels and circuits. After their training they go back and literally electrify their communities. Each woman is responsible for electrifying 50 houses in her community on return. A necessary condition for the women to be selected is that they be illiterate or semi-literate. They also learn several other skills, like basket making, bee keeping, and kitchen gardening during their stay.
We have successfully completed the Pan Africa e-network project for tele-medicine and tele-network covering 48 African countries. Five leading universities in India offered certificate, under graduate and post graduate programmes. Twelve super-speciality hospitals offered consultations and Continuous Medical Education. Around seven thousand students have concluded their studies. We will soon launch the next phase.
We will soon successfully complete the Cotton Technical Assistance Programme for African Countries launched in 2012. The project was implemented in Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, Malawi, Nigeria and Uganda.
Friends,
Africa-India trade has multiplied in the last fifteen years. It has doubled in the last five years to reach nearly seventy-two billion US dollars in 2014-15. India’s commodity trade with Africa in 2015-16 was higher than our commodity trade with the United States of America.
India is also working with United States and Japan to support development in Africa. I gladly recall my detailed conversation with Prime Minister Abe during my visit to Tokyo. We discussed our commitment for enhancing growth prospects for all. In our joint declaration, we mentioned an Asia Africa Growth Corridor and proposed further conversations with our brothers and sisters from Africa.
Indian and Japanese research institutions have come up with a Vision Document. I congratulate RIS, ERIA and IDE-JETRO for their efforts in putting it together. This was done in consultation with think tanks from Africa. I understand the Vision Document would be presented at the Board meeting later. The idea is that India and Japan, with other willing partners, would explore joint initiatives in skills, health, infrastructure, manufacturing and connectivity.
Our partnership is not confined to Governments alone. India’s private sector is at the forefront of driving this impetus. From 1996 to 2016, Africa accounted for nearly one-fifth of Indian overseas direct investments. India is the fifth largest country investing in the continent, with investments over the past twenty years amounting to fifty four billion dollars, creating jobs for Africans.
We are encouraged by the response of African countries to the International Solar Alliance initiative, which was launched at the UN Climate Change Conference in Paris in November 2015. The Alliance is conceived as a coalition of countries rich in solar resources, to address their special energy needs. I am happy to note that many African countries have extended their support to this initiative.
As a founder of the New Development Bank, popularly called the “BRICS bank”, India has consistently supported establishment of a Regional Centre in South Africa. This will provide a platform to promote collaboration between NDB and other development partners including the African Development Bank.
India joined the African Development Fund in 1982 and the African Development Bank in 1983. India has contributed to all of the Bank’s General Capital Increases. For the most recent African Development Fund replenishment, India pledged twenty nine million dollars. We have contributed to the Highly Indebted Poor Countries and Multilateral Debt Reduction Initiatives.
On the sidelines of these Meetings, the Government of India is organising a Conference and Dialogue in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry. There is also an exhibition in association with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry. The focus areas range from Agriculture to Innovation and start-ups and other themes.
The theme of this event is “Transforming Agriculture for wealth creation in Africa”. This is an area where India and the Bank can fruitfully join hands. I have already mentioned the Cotton Technical Assistance Programme.
Here in India, I have launched an initiative to double farmers’ incomes by 2022. It will require concerted steps, ranging from improved seeds and optimal inputs, to reduced crop losses and better marketing infrastructure. India is keen to learn from your experiences as we proceed on this initiative.
My African brothers and sisters,
Many of the challenges we face are the same: uplifting our farmers and the poor, empowering women, ensuring our rural communities have access to finance, building infrastructure. We have to do these within financial constraints. We have to maintain macro-economic stability so that inflation is controlled and our balance of payments is stable. There is much for us to gain by sharing our experiences on all these fronts. For example, in our push to a less-cash economy, we have learnt from the great strides that African countries like Kenya have made in the area of mobile banking.
I am happy to share that India has, in the last three years, improved on all macro-economic indicators. The fiscal deficit, balance of payments deficit, and inflation are down. The GDP growth rate, foreign exchange reserves and public capital investment are up. At the same time, we have made big strides in development.
Mr. President of the African Development Bank, it is reported that you have described our recent steps as text book chapters for other developing nations and called us a development beacon. While thanking you for these kind words, I am also glad to know that you have spent quite some time training in Hyderabad earlier. However, I must say that I remain focused on the many challenges ahead. In that context, I thought I could share with you some of the strategies we have used in the last 3 years.
By paying subsidies directly to the poor rather than indirectly through price concessions, we have achieved large fiscal savings. In cooking gas alone we have saved over 4 billion dollars in three years. In addition, I appealed to well-off citizens to voluntarily give up their gas subsidy. Under the ‘Give it up’ campaign, we promised the saving would be used to provide a connection to a poor family. You will be surprised to know that over 10 million Indians volunteered to do so. Thanks to the savings, we have launched a programme to provide gas connections to 50 million poor families. More than 15 million connections have already been provided. This transforms the lives of rural women. It frees them from the health hazards of cooking with firewood. It also protects the environment and reduces pollution. This is an example of what I call ‘reform to transform’: a concerted set of actions which transform lives.
Some of the subsidised urea fertiliser intended for farmers used to get illegally diverted to non-agricultural uses, like production of chemicals. We introduced universal neem-coating of urea. This makes the fertiliser unsuitable for diversion. Not only have we got substantial financial savings but in addition, studies have shown that neem coating has improved the effectiveness of the fertiliser.
We are also providing our farmers with soil health cards which tell them the exact nature of their soil, and advise on the best mix of inputs. This promotes optimal use of inputs, and increases crop yield.
We have made unprecedented increases in capital investment in infrastructure, covering railways, highways, power, and gas pipelines. By next year, no village in India will be without electricity. Our Clean Ganga, Renewable Energy, Digital India, Smart Cities, Housing for All and Skill India missions are preparing us for a cleaner, more prosperous, faster growing and modern new India. Our aim is that India must be an engine of growth as well as an example in climate friendly development in the years to come.
There are two crucial factors which have helped us. The first set of changes is in the banking system. In the last 3 years, we have achieved universal banking. We launched the Jan Dhan Yojana or People’s Money campaign under which over two hundred and eighty million bank accounts have been opened for the poor in urban and rural areas. Thanks to that initiative, virtually every Indian family has a bank account. Normally banks are associated with helping businesses and the rich. We have enlisted them for helping the poor in their quest for development. We have strengthened our state-owned banks by freeing them from political decisions and appointing professional chief executives on merit through a transparent selection process.
Our universal biometric identification system called Aadhaar has been the second crucial element. It prevents claiming of benefits by those who are not eligible. It enables us to ensure that those who deserve government aid receive it with ease, while excluding non-genuine claims.
Friends, let me conclude by wishing you a very successful and productive annual meeting. In the sports arena, India cannot compete with Africa in long distance running. But I can assure you that India will always stand with you, shoulder to shoulder, supporting you in the long and difficult race for a better future.
Excellencies! Ladies and Gentlemen! I now have great pleasure in officially declaring the Annual Meetings of the Board of Governors of the African Development Bank Group open.
Thank you!
Distinguished Ministers,
Members of the Turkish delegation,
Friends from the Indian business community,
Ladies and Gentlemen!
I am delighted to have this opportunity to interact with the leading businessmen in today’s Forum. I extend a warm welcome to President Erdogan and all our Turkish friends present here. It is a pleasure to see a large number of business delegates accompanying President Erdogan. I am also very happy to see the participation of many Indian business leaders.
Friends, India and Turkey enjoy great historic and cultural connect. We also share a common outlook on the present economic order in the world.
Now, economic cooperation is becoming an important pillar of every bilateral relation. India and Turkey enjoy good economic ties. The growth in our bilateral trade over the years has been impressive. I understand that bilateral trade has increased significantly since President Ergodan last visited India. It has gone up from US Dollar 2.8 billion in 2008 to 6.4 billion in 2016. While this is encouraging, the level of present economic and commercial relations is not enough against the real potential.
Friends! India and Turkey are among twenty largest economies in the world. More importantly, both economies have shown remarkable stability even in volatile global economic conditions. Our economies are based on strong fundamentals and for this reason, we are optimistic about our economic prospects.
There is immense goodwill for each other between the people of the two countries. As we strive to build stronger political ties, the time has come to also make more aggressive effort to deepen the economic relations. We have a long history of doing business with each other. We have to build on this rich heritage.
There is huge potential and opportunity to enhance the bilateral engagement. This is possible through trade and FDI inflows, technology tie-up, and cooperation on various projects. In this context, we have seen some increase in participation of Turkish companies in India. This has come through investment in blue chip Indian companies and FDI route in the last few years. However, such cooperation could go upto small and medium enterprises. Today’s knowledge-based global economy is continuously opening new areas. We must factor this in our economic and commercial interactions.
You can see that the governments of both sides are committed to provide a business-friendly environment. However, it is the business leaders such as you who have to turn the national goal into reality for mutual benefit of the two nations.
Friends!
The Indian political system is known for its vibrant, open and participative democracy. Stability in political and administrative processes, and rule of law are the hallmark of our system. And these are important considerations for any serious long-term economic engagement.
My government came to power in this very month three years back. Since then, we have launched several initiatives to reform the economy and administrative processes. We have also launched several flagship programmes like Make in India, Start up India and Digital India. The result of these is already visible in the recovery of Indian economy. Today, Indian economy is the fastest growing major economy in the world. In addition to maintaining this pace, our focus is also to remove the inefficiencies from the system. We are in the process of building a New India. Therefore, our focus is on making it easier to work; particularly to do business. This includes reforming the policies, processes and procedures. It also includes creating conditions and facilitating domestic and foreign investment.
We have achieved lot of success and recognition on this front. Our Global ranking has gone up on many parameters. However, this is an ongoing effort. Therefore, it has to continue. It is basically a shift in attitude and approach. The objective is to make India a better place to enable people realize their potential. This is required in particular to provide employment and self-employment opportunities for our youth. The recent GST Legislation is another such initiative of my Government. This was an old demand to create a uniform and efficient business atmosphere in the country.
I know that Turkish construction companies have successfully undertaken many construction and infrastructure projects in other countries. Our infrastructure requirements are enormous, including core as well as social and industrial infrastructure. We are keen to build it strong and build it fast. Turkish companies can easily participate in this task. Just to give you some examples:
We have planned to build 50 million houses by 2022. For this purpose, we have repeatedly refined our FDI Policy in construction sector;
We are planning metro rail projects in fifty cities and high speed trains in various National corridors;
We have targeted 175 Giga Watt of renewable energy in next few years;
In addition to generation of electricity, the issues of transmission, storage and distribution are equally important for us;
We are modernizing our Railways and upgrading our Highways. In the last three years, we have made maximum allocation for these two sectors;
We are putting up new ports and modernizing the old ones through an ambitious plan called Sagarmala;
Similar focus is on upgrading the existing Airports and putting up regional airports to enhance connectivity to the places of economic and tourist importance.
The Turkish tourism sector is globally renowned. The number of Indian tourists going to Turkey has increased in the last few years. Turkey has also become a popular destination for shooting of Indian films and for television industry. While we should definitely encourage two-way tourism, the industry should explore wider possibilities in this area. One example could be to reach out to our Regional Film Industry which is equally vibrant.
We are aware that India and Turkey are both energy deficient and our energy needs are ever increasing. Hydrocarbon sector is therefore a common area of interest for both countries. The same would also be relevant for solar and wind energy.
Therefore, the energy sector becomes an important pillar of our bilateral relations. Mining and food processing are other areas with great promise. We can also pool together our strengths in the textile and auto sectors. Turkey has a strong manufacturing sector and India is a low cost manufacturing hub. Besides the cost aspect, we have a large pool of skilled and semi-skilled work force and strong R&D capabilities.
I am pleased to note that the mechanism of India-Turkey Joint Committee on Economic & Technical Cooperation is working well. In its next meeting, the Committee could undertake a review of the measures to be taken for promoting two-way trade and investment.
Similarly, I would also urge the Chambers of Commerce & Industry of both sides to engage with each other pro-actively. Our processes should work closely both at the government and B-2-B level.
I would like to thank President Erdogan , members of the delegation and members of Indo-Turkish business chambers for attending today’s forum. This is really an excellent opportunity for bringing together the Indian and Turkish business community.
Friends!
Let us work together for enhancing the level of our economic activities for welfare of our people. From the Indian side, I welcome you with open arms.
I can say with confidence that India was never a more promising destination than it is today.
To make it even better, I assure you of my personal care and co-operation.
Thank You!
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has extended best wishes to the Global Investors’ Summit 2017 in Jharkhand.
“Best wishes for @InvestJharkhand. May the deliberations in this Summit lead to fruitful outcomes that contribute to Jharkhand’s growth.
Investment generated from @InvestJharkhand will create several opportunities for people of the state and give wings to their aspirations.
Skills and determination of people of Jharkhand and proactive efforts of Jharkhand Government are bringing record development in the state.”, the Prime Minister said.
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved holding negotiations for Trade Agreement with Peru on trade in goods, services and investment.
A Joint Study Group (JSG) between India and Peru was constituted in order to explore the possibility for entering into trade agreement with Peru on 15th January, 2015. Both sides concluded the Joint Study Group Report on 20th October, 2016 and agreed to carry forward the discussions on trade in goods, trade in services and investment.
Background:
Peru ranks 3rd amongst export destinations for India in the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region during 2015-16. India’s bilateral trade with Peru was US$ 107.32 million during 2005-06 which registered a growth of 1319.45% during 2015-16. During 2015-16, bilateral trade stood at US$ 1,523.35 million with exports at US$ 703.12 million and imports US$ 820.22 million respectively.
India has friendly relations with Peru. Peru has been cooperating with India at the International fora and the trade agreement will enhance the trade and economic relations between the two countries. The trade agreement would be an important landmark in India-Peru relations and consolidate the traditional fraternal relation that have existed between India and LAC countries.
I welcome you all to the Vibrant Gujarat Summit. I also wish you a very happy, prosperous and successful new year. I fondly recall the modest launch of this event in 2003. Since then it has been a very successful journey.
I express my gratitude to the partner countries and organisations – a list which includes Japan, Canada, USA, UK, Netherlands, Australia, Denmark, France, Poland, Sweden, Singapore and UAE. I particularly thank the initial partner countries of the Vibrant Gujarat event: Japan and Canada.
Many other prestigious global organisations and networks are also partners of this event. I thank you all for this partnership. Your presence is a source of motivation for business leaders as well as young entrepreneurs gathered here. Without your support, this event could not have seen eight biennial chapters; each better and bigger than the earlier one.
The last three events have been particularly big. The presence of political and business leaders from more than 100 countries, and a large number of organisations from around the world make this a truly global event.
I would urge the participants to reach out to each other and to derive the greatest benefit from this summit. You should also visit the trade show and the exhibition where hundreds of companies have showcased their products and processes.
Gujarat, the land of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel, also represents the business spirit of India. Through the ages, it has led in commerce and enterprise. Centuries ago, its people went across the seven seas in search of opportunities. Even today, this state boasts of being the origin of the highest number of our people living and working abroad. And wherever they have gone, they have created a mini-Gujarat. We proudly say: ज्यां ज्यां बसे एक गुजराती, त्यां त्यां सदाकाल गुजरात. In other words, Wherever a Gujarati resides; there, forever, resides Gujarat.
Gujarat is currently in the midst of the Kite Festival. May the kites inspire us all to fly high.
Friends!
As I have often said India’s strength lies in the three Ds: Democracy, Demography and Demand.
Our biggest strength is the depth of our Democracy. Some people say that democracy cannot deliver effective and fast track governance. But we have seen in the last two and a half years that it is possible to deliver quick results in a democratic set up as well.
Over the last two and a half years, we have also evolved a culture of healthy competition among states. States are being rated on parameters of Good Governance. The World Bank is helping us in this process.
Coming to Demography, ours is a nation of vibrant youth. The disciplined, dedicated, and talented youth of India offers a globally unmatched work-force. We are the second largest English speaking country. Our youth are not merely looking for jobs. They have begun taking risks and often prefer to become Entrepreneurs.
On the Demand front, our rising middle class offers a huge domestic market.
The seas that surround the Indian peninsula, connect us to some of the world’s biggest markets, including Africa, the Middle East and Europe.
Nature has been kind to us. Our three crop seasons enable us to grow food, vegetables and fruits in abundance.
The diversity in our flora and fauna is unparalleled. The richness of our culture and its living symbols is unique. Our Institutions and scholars are recognised the world over. India is now an emerging R&D hub. We produce the world’s second largest number of scientists and engineers.
Our entertainment industry is making waves worldwide. All this helps ensure a good quality of life, at relatively low cost.
Friends!
Our Government was elected first and foremost on the promise to provide clean Governance and end the prevailing regime of corruption and nepotism. It is our vision and mission to bring a paradigm shift in the ways of our polity and economy. We have taken a series of decisions and steps in this direction. To give you some examples, we are bringing a shift:
· From relation based Governance to system based Governance;
· From discretionary administration to policy based administration;
· From random interference to technological intervention;
· From favouritism to level playing field;
· From Informal economy to formal economy.
In doing this, digital technology has played a key role. I have often said that e-governance is easy and effective Governance. I have also emphasized the need for policy driven Governance. Online processes help bring speed and openness in decision making. Towards this end, we are working to adopt and absorb newer technologies, to bring about transparency, and to end discretion. Believe me, we are on the threshold of becoming the world’s most digitised economy. Most of you wanted this change in India. I am proud to say that it is happening before you.
Over the last two and a half years, we have worked relentlessly to realise India’s potential, and to set right the economy. The results have been encouraging. There has been substantial improvement in key macro-economic indicators like GDP growth, inflation, fiscal deficit, current account deficit as well as foreign investments.
India has become the fastest growing major economy in the world. Despite the global slowdown, we have registered excellent growth.Today, India is a bright spot in the global economy. We are seen as the engine of global growth.
World Bank, IMF and other institutions have projected even better growth in the coming days. In 2014-15, India contributed 12.5 per cent of global growth. Its contribution to global growth is sixty eight per cent higher, than its share of the world economy.
Creating an enabling environment for business, and attracting investments, is my top priority. We have to do this in order to create opportunities for our youth. With that spirit, we are moving towards implementation of some historic initiatives. This includes the Goods and Services Tax.
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, the National Company Law Tribunal, a new arbitration framework and a new IPR regime are all in place. New commercial courts have also been set up. These are just a few examples of the direction in which we are going. My government is strongly committed to continue the reform of the Indian economy.
Friends!
We have placed the highest emphasis on Ease of Doing Business. We have taken decisive steps to ease licensing processes, and rationalize provisions and procedures relating to clearances, returns, and inspections. We are monitoring implementation of hundreds of action points across various sectors, aimed at improving the regulatory framework. This is part of our promise of Good Governance.
The outcomes of our efforts are visible in India’s global rankings on various indicators. A number of global reports and assessments over the last two years have shown that India has improved its policies, practices and hence its economic profile.
India’s rank has improved considerably, in the World Bank’s Doing Business Report.
India is ranked third in the list of top prospective host economies for 2016-18 in the World Investment Report 2016 released by UNCTAD.
Our rank also improved by thirty two positions in World Economic Forum’s ‘Global Competitiveness Report 2015-16 and 2016-17’;
We have moved up sixteen ranks in the ‘Global Innovation Index 2016’ brought out by WIPO and other institutions;
We have moved up nineteen positions in the World Bank’s ‘Logistics Performance Index of 2016.’
You can see that we are moving closer to global best practices. Day by day we are getting more and more integrated with the world. Our confidence has been boosted by the positive impact of our policies and practices. This also gives us the motivation to further simplify our processes to become the easiest place to do business.
Every day, we are further rationalising our policies and procedures, to make it simple for businesses to establish and grow.
We have liberalised our FDI regime in many sectors and in various ways. India is today among the most open economies.
This change in environment has been recognized by both domestic and foreign investors. An encouraging Start-up eco-system is now taking shape in the country. This unleashing of the youth power is heartening.
The total FDI inflows in the last two and a half years have touched US Dollars one hundred and thirty billion. The FDI equity inflow in the last two financial years was sixty per cent higher as compared to previous two financial years. In fact, the total FDI inflows received during the last year have been the highest ever.
The number of countries from where FDI is coming in, and the sectors in which they are being routed have also diversified in the last two years. India is now the leading recipient of capital investment in the Asia-Pacific. It also continues to be among the top ten countries globally in terms of FDI inflows.
But the story does not end here. India has left every other country behind in terms of providing return on investment. In 2015, India has risen to first position in the Baseline Profitability Index.
Friends!
Make in India has become the biggest brand that India has ever had. It is directed towards making India a global hub for manufacturing, design and innovation. ‘Make in India’ has celebrated its second anniversary recently.
I am delighted to share that we have become the sixth largest manufacturing country in the world, up from ninth largest previously. Our Gross Value Added in manufacturing has recorded a growth of nine per cent in 2015-16. This is much higher than the five to six per cent growth in the previous three years.
All this is helping us expand the job market and raise the purchasing power of our people. But the real potential is even higher.
To give you a few examples: India’s Food Processing Industry is expected to increase almost five fold in the next ten years. Similarly, India’s low vehicle penetration makes it one of the world’s most attractive auto markets.
At the Government level, we have to ensure that our growth process is inclusive and embraces both rural and urban communities. We are committed to an India with:
· Better job opportunities;
· Better income;
· Better purchasing power;
· Better quality of life;
· And better living standards.
Friends!
Our Development needs are huge. Our development agenda is ambitious. For instance:
· We want to provide a roof over every head;
· We want to provide jobs to every hand;
· We want to produce energy that is cleaner;
· We want to build roads and railways faster;
· We want mineral exploration to become greener;
· We want to build urban amenities that are sturdier
· We want to see our quality of life getting better and better
We are taking a leap towards next generation infrastructure: in both core and social sectors; in both rural and urban areas. This includes Freight Corridors, Industrial Corridors, High Speed and Metro Rail projects, Logistics Parks, Smart Cities, Coastal Zones, regional airports, water, sanitation and energy initiatives. Our per capita electricity consumption must rise. Even as we do so, we are committed to promoting renewable energy.
We are keen to promote tourism in a big way and this needs tourism infrastructure. The targets for construction of roads and laying of railways have been increased manifold. India is going to emerge as one of the world’s largest construction markets as it adds millions of homes. All this offers unprecedented opportunities for the investor community. Most of you can work with us in a number of areas which include:
· From hardware to software;
· From soft skills to scientific temper
· From defence systems to cyber security
· From medicine to tourism;
I daresay, that India alone offers the opportunities that could rival those of an entire continent. It offers today, the possibilities of a full century. And we want to do all this in a cleaner, greener and sustainable way. We are committed to protect the environment and uphold our responsibility towards Nature. Ultimately, this is what India has stood for since ages.
Welcome to India:
· The land of tradition and tranquillity;
· The land of empathy and excitement;
· The land of experiment and enterprise.
· The land of openings and opportunities;
Once again, I welcome you and invite you to be part of –
· India of Today;
· and India of Tomorrow.
I assure you that I will be available to hold your hands whenever required.
Thank You!
