New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the Sixth Ramnath Goenka Lecture in New Delhi to underscore the centrality of development in India’s political landscape, drawing on the recent Bihar assembly election results as a key indicator of public expectations. He stated that the outcome reflected the growing aspirations of citizens and their trust in parties that prioritise welfare and long-term growth.
Addressing an audience gathered for the annual event honouring journalistic excellence, the Prime Minister said that both the central government and state administrations must work with a shared commitment to development. He encouraged states to attract investment, improve business conditions and pursue constructive competition to accelerate progress.
Reflecting on the Bihar mandate, he noted that the electorate had endorsed the politics of development, pointing to strong voter participation and a desire for stability. He stressed that effective governance is rooted not in constant electoral calculations but in sustained emotional engagement with people’s needs. According to him, the BJP’s success stems from its focus on public welfare and its determination to deliver results consistently.
The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s economic resilience amid global volatility. He recalled how disruptions in Europe in 2022 and rising instability in West Asia in 2023 impacted global markets, yet India maintained steady growth during both periods. Despite continued uncertainties this year, he said the economy is expanding at nearly seven percent, positioning the country not only as a rising market but also as a model for emerging economies.
Describing India as a nation “restless for progress,” he said the country is determined to achieve self-reliance and broaden opportunities for its citizens. He pointed to improvements in states like Bihar, citing gains in infrastructure, housing and access to clean energy as examples of transformative change driven by targeted schemes.
The lecture also paid tribute to Ramnath Goenka’s legacy of principled journalism. Modi acknowledged the role of dedicated political workers and the importance of integrity in public life, emphasising that sustained development must remain the cornerstone of India’s journey toward a more prosperous future.
