In an interview with The Indian Express, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about the progress India has seen under his government, the importance of Uttar Pradesh in the upcoming Assembly Polls, and the one Opposition party that has caused problems for the BJP government.
Here are the excerpts from the interview.
Govt Exists for the Benefit of the People: Modi
Modi claimed the progress is indexed by the way it benefits the entire country and not simply a faction in it.
From my point of view, what we need is not the government's gain but the country's gain. The government exists, and should exist, for the benefit of the people, the Janata Janardan...There is belief and there is hope. A strong foundation has been laid for a takeoff. This transformation from gloom to confidence in the future and from economic decline to sustained growth has the potential to transform India.
Modi on Brexit and the ‘Inward Policy' of Other Countries
When asked about how countries are turning more towards their own resources, citing the example of Brexit, this is what he had to say:
For centuries it has been clear that for each country its own interests are supreme... Global linkages can be strengthened by harnessing the interests of other countries... Regarding Brexit, it is a subject that requires in-depth examination. In this regard, we will take correct decisions keeping in mind our interests.
Govt Has Done More than Any Govt Since Independence: Modi
The work BJP has done in securing development across all states, including those ruled by the Opposition, was also emphasised in the interview.
If you look at the facts, you will find that this government has done more for states, regardless of the party they are ruled by, than any government since Independence... I am proud of my government's record in treating opposition-ruled states as full and as equal partners in ‘Team India'.
Also Read: Revealed: The ‘Secret Code of Conduct' of the Arnab-Modi Interview
Modi on China
On the topic of India's troubled relationship with its neighbouring country, Modi cited cooperation, while also being able to stand one's own ground, as the plan of action to be adopted.
We need to work together more, understand each other's interests and priorities and be sensitive to mutual concerns and interests. But, I also firmly stand by what our strategic interests are and will continue to pursue them strongly.
Modi on Uttar Pradesh and Progress
Modi unequivocally stated that only the BJP can ensure progress and development. He added that leading Uttar Pradesh on the path of progress will be part of the party's strategy.
...only the BJP can guarantee development. Fifteen years of misrule has resulted in the state declining, not just in the field of education, but also in industrial development... Uttar Pradesh was at the bottom among all states and Union territories in 2014-15. This ranking was based on four parameters: accessibility of schemes for the people, infrastructure, teachers, and outcomes. So this means Uttar Pradesh is in bad shape on each of these parameters. Our strategy will be to take Uttar Pradesh on the path of development.
Also Read: 10 Questions Arnab Goswami Didn't Bother To Ask Narendra Modi
We Have Healthy Debates With the Opposition: Modi
The Prime Minister claimed that healthy dialogue exists between the BJP and the Opposition. He added that there has been only one party which has caused problems, resulting in “negative consequences for the nation”.
Apart from the completion of much legislative work, we have also witnessed healthy debates on topics of national importance ranging from the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Ambedkar, to drought, to the attack in Pathankot...The fact is that barring one party, the Opposition has been constructive in pursuing the larger national interest. The whole nation knows that it is only one party which, unable to adjust to the reality of its defeat, has made obstructionism its response to every issue, regardless of the negative consequences for the nation.
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