Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a strong message to India's youth on Monday. He commended the creativity of Generation Z while drawing sharp contrasts between his government's policies and those of the previous UPA administration.
Celebrating Youth and Creativity
Speaking at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, PM Modi highlighted the vital role of young people in nation-building. The event marked Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary. Modi emphasized that India's youth drive progress with their innovative ideas and boundless energy.
"India's Gen Z is full of creativity," the Prime Minister stated. He expressed confidence in their capabilities and talent.
Breaking Free from a 'Slave Mindset'
PM Modi urged the young audience to abandon what he called a "slave mindset." He attributed this mentality to historical education policies, specifically mentioning Thomas Macaulay's influence. For too long, Modi argued, imported products were seen as guarantees of quality while Indian goods faced an inferiority complex.
He encouraged the youth to follow Vivekananda's example—open to global best practices but proud of India's heritage.
Contrasting Eras: Reforms vs. Restrictions
The Prime Minister presented a stark comparison between governance approaches. He described the UPA government's tenure as a period of policy paralysis and overwhelming restrictions.
- Youth faced a complex web of compliances for simple tasks like applying for jobs or bank loans.
- Entrepreneurial spirit was curbed by stifling rules.
In contrast, Modi outlined his government's reforms:
- Opening sectors like space, nuclear power, and defense to private players.
- Easing regulations and simplifying taxes.
- Creating countless opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
Modernizing Indian Storytelling
PM Modi pointed to India's rich storytelling tradition, including epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. He suggested a modern application for this cultural wealth.
"Our Hanuman ji can dominate gaming in the world," he remarked. The Prime Minister proposed that new entrepreneurs in the gaming sector develop mythological stories into games. This, he said, would export Indian culture in a contemporary way.
Political Context and Youth Engagement
The Prime Minister's praise for Gen Z comes amid global attention on youth-led movements. In neighboring Bangladesh and elsewhere, young people have spearheaded anti-government protests. Opposition leaders in India have referenced these agitations, attempting to connect with the youth in their campaigns.
For instance, Rahul Gandhi's Congress has reached out to the younger generation as part of its campaign. They frame it as an effort to protect democracy. PM Modi's dialogue directly engages this demographic, highlighting his government's support for their aspirations.
A Vision for Confident Youth
PM Modi concluded with a powerful assertion. No country can develop without self-confidence, he stated. He placed the responsibility on young Indians to build a confident nation, free from past mental constraints. The large participation in the dialogue, he noted, shows the depth of research and energy among India's youth—far beyond what the term "think tank" can capture.
