During his keynote address at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit (HTLS) 2024 on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the progress India has made in combating terrorism, stating that terrorists now “feel unsafe in their homes.” He contrasted this with the situation during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, when the people of India felt vulnerable to such threats.
Reflecting on his visit to an exhibition that showcased reports from the 26/11 attacks, PM Modi said, “At that time, terrorism made people feel unsafe. But today, the scenario has changed, and now terrorists feel unsafe in their own homes.”
Modi’s comments underscored the significant strides made in strengthening national security under his leadership. He emphasized that his government’s policies have shifted the balance, making those who once posed a threat to India now feel cornered.
The Prime Minister also highlighted his government’s commitment to national development, noting that it has stayed clear of “vote-bank politics” and focused on the welfare of the people. “Our government has set a clear purpose. We are working with the mantra of ‘progress for the people, by the people,’” he said.
Turning to the nation’s economic progress, PM Modi reaffirmed his goal of transforming India into a developed country. He mentioned how, over the past decade, the youth of India have developed a stronger risk-taking mentality, driving innovation. “Today, India has over 1.25 lakh registered startups, and our youth are eager to contribute to the country’s success,” he said.
The Prime Minister also discussed several of his government’s key initiatives, such as the Swachh Bharat Mission and the LPG connection scheme. Regarding sanitation, he said, “The toilet scheme has not only provided dignity and security but also created jobs, contributing to economic growth.” He also noted the significant increase in LPG connections, pointing out that the number of gas connections has more than doubled from 14 crore in 2014 to over 30 crore today.
In closing, PM Modi reaffirmed his government’s resolve in the face of challenges posed by misinformation in the age of social media, stressing that the government remains steadfast in its mission to serve the people and guide India toward a brighter, more developed future.