New Delhi, August 10 (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, speaking from Bengaluru—India’s preeminent technology hub—urged a renewed emphasis on technological self-reliance, advocating that Indian technology enterprises give precedence to national imperatives so that the benefits of innovation reach every citizen.

During his visit to Karnataka, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated three Vande Bharat Express trains at KSR Railway Station and launched the Yellow Line of the Bengaluru Metro, personally journeying from RV Road (Ragigudda) to Electronic City station. He also inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for several urban connectivity projects, addressing a public gathering thereafter.

The Prime Minister highlighted the pivotal role of 'Make in India' capabilities in the success of Operation Sindoor, attributing much of this strength to the youth of Bengaluru and Karnataka. He commended the Indian Army for its decisive operations deep inside Pakistan, which resulted in the swift neutralization of terrorist outposts and compelled the adversary’s rapid retreat.

Modi emphasized that over the past eleven years, India has achieved unprecedented milestones, now standing as the fastest-growing major economy globally. He credited this ascent to a philosophy of Reform, Perform, Transform, guided by transparent intent and tireless effort. Against this backdrop, he underscored that India’s next strategic objective must be ‘Tech Self-Reliance.’

Citing advancements in technological autonomy, the Prime Minister noted India’s emergence as a global leader in cost-effective, high-tech space missions, and its progress towards global leadership in artificial intelligence, with the semiconductor mission poised to deliver ‘Made in India’ microchips imminently.

He called upon Indian technology companies to sharpen their focus on specific domestic needs, asserting, “The time has come to accord even greater priority to India's requirements, so that every citizen may reap the benefits of technology.” Modi observed that Indian tech firms have garnered international acclaim for their software and product innovations benefitting the world.

Presenting statistical progress on infrastructure and connectivity, the Prime Minister pointed out that India now possesses the world’s third-largest metro network and has attained historic advancements in railway electrification. He described Bengaluru as emblematic of India’s ongoing transformation—a city whose spirit is rooted in philosophical wisdom and whose achievements resonate with technological prowess. Bengaluru, he remarked, has raised India’s profile on the global IT map and continues to spearhead the Digital India initiative.

Prime Minister Modi concluded by stating that the newly inaugurated connectivity projects would effectively spur trade, tourism, and regional integration, further catalyzing India’s journey towards comprehensive national self-reliance.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar