Raisen (MP): On Sunday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh characterized India's economy as the most 'dashing and dynamic' globally, suggesting that certain individuals with a superiority complex are uncomfortable with this progress.
His remarks were made in the context of the recent high tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump on Indian imports.
Singh emphasized that India's rapid advancement is unstoppable, stating that no global power can hinder its rise to prominence during his speech at the bhoomi pujan ceremony for a rail coach manufacturing facility by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) in Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh.
'Today, India stands out with its vibrant and dynamic economy,' he asserted.
He pointed out that some individuals are struggling to accept India's swift development.
'They wonder why India is progressing so quickly and are attempting to make Indian products more expensive than those from other nations, thereby discouraging global consumers,' he explained.
Singh noted that in 2014, India ranked 11th in the global economy, but now it is among the top four.
'India is the epitome of a rapidly growing economy,' he added.
'The nation's progress is intertwined with the advancement of its citizens; if the people do not progress, neither can the country.'
He highlighted the shift in India's defense production, stating that previously, these products were sourced from abroad, but now they are manufactured domestically.
'Today, we not only meet our defense needs but also export to various countries,' he remarked.
Singh recalled that when Narendra Modi took office in 2014, defense exports were valued at Rs 600 crore, which has now surged to over Rs 24,000 crore.
'This showcases India's strength and the evolution of its defense sector,' he noted.
He also addressed the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 individuals lost their lives, asserting that India retaliated effectively against Pakistan through Operation Sindoor.
'We do not condone violence based on religion; our focus is on actions, not identities,' he stated.
Singh reiterated India's commitment to not spare anyone who provokes it.
Regarding the new rail coach unit, he described it as a significant development for the Raisen and Vidisha regions, promising to create 5,000 jobs.
He mentioned that Madhya Pradesh is rapidly advancing industrially, having recently attracted investment proposals exceeding Rs 30 lakh crore.
'With strong leadership, development accelerates. In a few years, Madhya Pradesh will be recognized as a modern state,' Singh predicted.
He added that the establishment of this unit will spur further development in the surrounding areas.
Earlier, Singh conducted the bhoomi pujan for BEML's rail coach unit, which is set to cost Rs 1,800 crore, located in Umaria village, Raisen district.
The project, named BRAHMA (BEML Rail Hub for Manufacturing), aims for an initial production capacity of 125 to 200 coaches annually, with plans to scale up to 1,100 coaches within five years, according to officials.
The bhoomi pujan event was attended by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and other notable figures.
A video message from Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw was also shared during the ceremony.
