I believe that PM Modi's Independence Day speech was exceptional because it touched upon India's most incredible dream of becoming a developed nation by 2047. Since I was born in 1953, I've lived through times of inadequate infrastructure. I recall booking a gas cylinder and receiving it only after my children had grown. During this period, my wife pursued her Ph.D. while cooking for our joint family and frequent guests using a single-burner gas stove that required manual pumping.
Thinking back to those days, it brings tears to my eyes. I was occupied with an 11-hour workday that included lengthy commutes. I remember visiting a two-wheeler showroom to book a Bajaj Chetak, only to be told about a seven-year waiting period. Instead, I relied on city buses for transportation. Despite my dreams and education from a premier institute, I settled into middle-class living. Open defecation during morning bus rides and subpar hygienic conditions in a city considered top-tier in the country were disheartening.
The baffling aspect was why our hardworking, intelligent society endured such challenges. Corruption and habits like tobacco spitting in government offices left lasting impressions. I often pondered the harsh living conditions in rural areas and smaller towns, accentuating inequality. The government's misleading focus on secularism and prioritizing minority appeasement over development disillusioned us.
Traveling abroad heightened my frustration, underscoring the need for sincere policies to enhance infrastructure and quality of life. Key growth drivers included employment and income for the lower middle class and those at the bottom of the economic pyramid. The rapid development in countries like Singapore and Dubai showcased the potential of policy changes.
The fact that the English-speaking, hardworking youth were denied opportunities for quality living for decades is regrettable. The past seven decades and multiple generations missed out on technological advancements and economic freedom. I often wondered why ordinary people didn't question elected representatives about poor living conditions.
The post-independence leaders ought to be held accountable to prevent such lessons from being forgotten. That is history now. Today, PM Modi's vision of a developed India by 2047 fills me with pride and optimism. Our current per capita income of USD 2601.
(approximately Rs. 2,16,000), ranking 139th globally is disappointing. While India's position soon to be the third most prosperous economy with a current GDP of 3.7 trillion might seem misleading due to its population, it positions us as a significant consumer market.
This dream of 2047 rejuvenates me and instills hope. I yearn to witness a developed India with diminished inequality and content citizens. The RBI's projection of 7.6% annual economic growth over the next 25 years is a substantial task, requiring consistent commitment from each government. As voters, we must resist falling for superficial freebies, as seen in recent elections.
The media is pivotal in raising awareness about the drawbacks of vote bank politics. For instance, addressing community inconveniences caused by a few trees to ensure smoother traffic flow and reduced fuel consumption is essential. Environmentalists opposing such practical measures ought to be held accountable. Delays in constructing essential infrastructure like flyovers and metro systems also need attention. These entities should operate efficiently, akin to private organizations, with CEOs overseeing their functions.
I eagerly anticipate an India with fewer inequalities and enhanced living standards.
Comments