New Delhi, 05 February (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared on Thursday in the Rajya Sabha that India stands fully prepared to compete on the world stage, with global nations eagerly seeking to forge robust trade relationships with the country.

Boost from Key Trade Agreements

The recent agreement between India and the European Union has instilled confidence worldwide, while the trade pact with the United States has accelerated this momentum.

Presently, the Global South—comprising developing nations—dominates international discourse, with India leading as its chief architect and amplifying their voice on global forums.

Response to President's Address

During his reply to the motion of thanks on the President's address, Prime Minister Modi, in his characteristic forthright style, targeted the opposition while enumerating his government's achievements. He dismissed Rahul Gandhi's political slogan Mohabbat ki Dukaan (Shop of Love) as mere rhetoric, asserting that those who propagate it harbor deep-seated hatred.

He noted that the opposition, envious of his administration's successes, has resorted to chanting Modi teri kabra khudegi (Modi, your grave will be dug by your own people).

Humorous Take on Criticism

The Prime Minister quipped, People ask me the secret to my health, and I reply that I consume two kilograms of abuse daily.

Sharp Critiques of Congress

PM Modi took pointed jabs at Congress leadership, remarking that theft is their ancestral profession and that they even appropriated the surname of a Gujarati icon, Mahatma Gandhi. He vehemently condemned Rahul Gandhi for labeling BJP leader Navneet Singh Bittoo a traitor, attributing it to Bittoo's Sikh identity, which he deemed an insult to Sikhs and their Gurus.

Additionally, he accused Congress of disrespecting Bharat Ratna awardee Bhupen Hazarika and highlighted the opposition's paper-throwing incident in the Lok Sabha the previous day, which insulted a Northeastern member on the Chair and a Dalit representative from Andhra Pradesh.

Congress has splintered countless times, and many have departed the party, yet Rahul Gandhi never called any of them traitors. He branded that member (Bittoo) a traitor solely because he is a Sikh. This was an affront to Sikhs, to their Gurus. Congress harbors deep-rooted hatred toward Sikhs.

Opposition Walkout Amid Disruptions

Opposition members created pandemonium during the Prime Minister's speech before staging a walkout, leaving PM Modi to respond in their absence. Noting Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge's enthusiastic sloganeering despite his age, PM Modi suggested he shout from his seat; on their exit, he remarked that the protesters had tired themselves out.

Tribute to Sadanand Master

PM Modi commended Rajya Sabha member Sadanand Master for his maiden speech, hailing his resilience after losing legs due to ideological conflicts orchestrated by the INDIA alliance. Despite amputated limbs, his character remains elevated, with no abusive words escaping his speech. I heartily congratulate Sadanand Master for persevering in national service and contributing to policymaking amid such attacks.

Opportunities for Youth, Irony of Elitism

Youth today abound with opportunities, PM Modi emphasized, mocking self-proclaimed kings who decry inequality: Some consider themselves royalty while lecturing on economic disparity—this is the irony we've witnessed.

Targeting TMC on Infiltrators

He criticized Trinamool Congress members for defending intruders in Parliament, contrasting it with wealthy nations deporting illegal immigrants, while pressure mounts on Indian courts to shield infiltrators—a move the nation's youth will not forgive.

Economic Turnaround Achievements

Upon assuming power in 2014, non-performing assets plagued the banking sector; under his government, they have plummeted below 1 percent. Public sector enterprises are now stable, NITI Aayog operates at peak efficiency, aspirational districts inspire globally, Prakriti platform accelerates development, and stalled projects worth ₹85 lakh crore have been completed.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar