'Make in India, lead the world'

BY OUR STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI, Jan 19: Reiterating his 'Make in India' call to the country's youth, Prime Minister rendra Modi said India can cater to the global demand for providing skilled human resource. He was addressing students of various educatiol institutions at IIT Guwahati on Tuesday afternoon.

Stressing that the country's demographic dividend must contribute to make it the world leader, Modi said, "This demographic dividend is our strength. With youth comes the zeal for sacrifice, energy and challenge. We mush channelize these assets to make India the world capital of information and knowledge in the 21st century"

Mentioning the abundance of Indian technocrats heading major IT corporations and industries in California's Silicon Valley, Modi said: "When Indians are making such a mark abroad with their ideas, talent and drive, why should this country's prime minister not dream about Make in India?"

"Most global economic surveys say India is the fastest growing major economy," pointed out the Prime Minister, adding that his government is focusing upon the youth with a well thought-out series of initiatives.

Modi in particular mentioned the NDA government's efforts towards skill development, the 'Make in India' campaign, and the Start-up initiative to nurture and develop entrepreneurial spirit.

In this context, he mentioned electronics and defence equipment manufacturing as priority areas, appealing to youths to make India self-reliant in these critical sectors. "Why should India remain solely a market? We have to import even thermometers, tear gas shells and mobile phones. Our youth should take this as challenge and change it," he said, adding, "We have to build up a 'Make in India' environment in our institutions."

Modi also highlighted the potential of Indian youths in becoming world leaders in the field of cyber security to safeguard IT systems and networks.

Assam Governor PB Acharyya, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, Union HRD minister Smriti Irani among others, were present at the function.