The North News
New Delhi, April 26
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lauded the role of India’s youth in shaping the country’s future, saying they are central to its emergence on the global stage. Addressing a Rozgar Mela, where over 51,000 young people received government appointment letters, Modi said that when youth take part in nation-building, a country sees rapid development and global recognition.
“This is an era of opportunity for India’s youth,” he declared in his virtual address. “Their hard work and innovation are drawing global attention. Our government is focused on expanding employment and self-employment avenues for them.”
Modi cited government initiatives like Skill India, Startup India, and Digital India as platforms enabling young Indians to develop and showcase their talents. These efforts, he claimed, have helped place India at the forefront of technology, data, and innovation in the current decade.
He described the Rozgar Mela as more than a symbolic gesture. “Today marks the beginning of new responsibilities,” he told the newly recruited employees. Their roles, he said, are critical in strengthening the economy, enhancing internal security, and building modern infrastructure.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the success of digital platforms like UPI, ONDC, and GeM, attributing India’s global leadership in real-time digital transactions largely to the enthusiasm and adaptability of its youth.
Referencing the recently announced Manufacturing Mission, Modi said it would boost the ‘Make in India’ campaign and help young entrepreneurs produce goods that meet global standards. He argued that such initiatives are already generating job opportunities across the country.
He quoted the IMF’s latest projection that India will remain the fastest-growing major economy, adding that this economic momentum is translating into expanding employment in diverse sectors.
“Look at what’s happening in the automobile and footwear sectors — both are reaching record levels in production and exports, creating jobs,” he said. He also celebrated a milestone in Khadi and Village Industries, which have surpassed ₹1.7 lakh crore in turnover for the first time.
Turning to infrastructure, Modi pointed to the dramatic rise in Inland Water Transport. From just 18 million tonnes of annual cargo movement before 2014, the volume has now crossed 145 million tonnes. “This has been made possible by sound policy and decision-making,” he said, noting that the number of National Waterways has surged from five to over 110, and their operational length has nearly doubled.
These advances, he said, are opening up “unprecedented opportunities” for youth across urban and rural India.
