Indian Prime Minister Urges Focus on Business, Living Standards, Self-Reliance

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a meeting with Secretaries from various Union Ministries and Departments, urging them to prioritise the significant impact of government initiatives on citizens' lives. The meeting highlighted the objectives of enhancing the ease of doing business, improving quality of life, and fostering self-reliance, known in Hindi as 'atmanirbharta'. Key government figures, including Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan, participated in this gathering, which was observed amidst discussions about a potential Cabinet reshuffle.

Modi underscored the necessity for a collaborative governmental approach, encouraging departments to work in unison instead of in silos. He emphasised integrated planning and coordination, advocating for the expanded use of the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan. This strategic initiative, which Modi initiated on October 13, 2021, aims to enhance multimodal connectivity across economic zones while facilitating comprehensive planning for significant infrastructure projects.

The PM GatiShakti plan is based on six key pillars: comprehensiveness, prioritisation, optimisation through identifying critical gaps, synchronisation among various ministries, analytics, and a dynamic approach to monitoring and reviewing cross-sectoral projects using advanced technology.

During the meeting, the Secretaries presented updates on major actions being taken by their respective Departments in alignment with self-reliance, ease of business, and improving living standards. They discussed reform measures, the progress achieved in their sectors, and the specific challenges they face. Participants outlined plans for enhancing governance and service delivery in the future.

Prime Minister Modi reiterated his commitment to ongoing reforms, stating that the 'Reform Express' is aimed at realising the vision of a prosperous India. This initiative includes transformative measures across infrastructure, manufacturing, digital public goods, and frameworks to simplify business operations. As reform efforts gain momentum, the government continues to strive for progressive changes that resonate with its conceptual objectives.