Prime Minister Narendra Modi proclaimed India’s meteoric rise as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, attributing the success to the mantra of “reform, perform, and transform.” Speaking at an event where he laid the foundation stone for Bangalore Metro Phase-3, flagged off three Vande Bharat Express trains, and inaugurated the Metro Rail Yellow Line, Modi outlined India’s transformation from the 10th largest economy in 2014 to a top-five global player, with ambitions to secure a top-three position.
Modi highlighted unprecedented infrastructure growth, noting that India’s metro rail network has expanded from five cities in 2014 to over 1,000 kilometers across 24 cities, making it the third-largest globally. Rail electrification has doubled from 20,000 km before 2014 to 40,000 km by 2025, while airports have increased from 74 to over 160, and national waterways have grown from three to 30. These advancements underscore India’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).
In education and healthcare, the number of AIIMS has risen from seven to 22, and medical colleges have increased from 387 to 704, adding over 100,000 new seats. Higher education institutions, including IITs (from 16 to 23), IIITs (from 9 to 25), and IIMs (from 13 to 21), have also expanded, creating more opportunities for students.
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India’s export sector has seen remarkable growth, with total exports rising from USD 468 billion in 2014 to USD 824 billion in 2025. Mobile phone exports have surged from USD 6 billion to USD 38 billion, and automobile exports have more than doubled, positioning India as the fourth-largest global automobile exporter. These achievements, Modi emphasized, strengthen the vision of a self-reliant India.
Looking ahead, Modi stressed the importance of technological self-reliance, particularly in emerging fields like artificial intelligence and semiconductors. The India AI Mission and Semiconductor Mission are poised to position India as a global leader, with “Made in India” chips on the horizon. India’s space missions, known for their low-cost, high-tech approach, further exemplify its advancements in futuristic technologies.
Modi also highlighted India’s digital transformation, with UPI accounting for over 50% of global real-time transactions, empowering even remote villages. He urged Karnataka and Bengaluru to lead in manufacturing and “Make in India,” adhering to the “Zero Defect, Zero Effect” standard for quality and sustainability.
In the presence of Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and Union Ministers, Modi expressed confidence that India’s collective efforts will pave the way for a “Vikasit Bharat” (Developed India), driven by innovation, inclusivity, and global leadership.
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