Speed Post News Network
New Delhi : PM Narendra Modi on December 13, 2017, addressed the inaugural session of the 90th Annual General Meeting of FICCI. He recalled that around the time of FICCI’s establishment in 1927, Indian Industry had united against the Simon Commission that was constituted by the then British Government. He said that Indian Industry had joined all other sections of Indian society in national interest at that time.
The Prime Minister said that a similar atmosphere exists today when people of the country are coming forward to fulfil their responsibilities towards the nation. He said the hopes and aspirations of people are to rid the country from internal problems like corruption and black money. He said political parties and chambers of industry should keep in mind the country’s requirements and the feelings of the people and work accordingly.
The Prime Minister said that a lot has been achieved since independence, but several challenges have arisen as well. He said the poor seemed to be struggling against the system that came to be established for things such as bank accounts, gas connections, scholarships, pensions etc. He said the Union Government is working to end this struggle and to create a system that is transparent and sensitive. He said the Jan Dhan Yojana is one example of this, and increasing “ease of living” has been the focus of the Union Government.
The PM also mentioned the Ujjwala Yojana, construction of toilets under the Swachh Bharat Mission, and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. He said that he has come through poverty and understands the need to work for the requirements of the poor and the nation. He also mentioned the Mudra Yojana for collateral-free loans to entrepreneurs, according to a PIB release.
The Prime Minister said that the Union Government is working to strengthen the banking system. He said the issue of NPAs is a legacy received by the present Government. He said rumours are now being spread about the Financial Regulation and Deposit Insurance (FRDI) Bill. He said the Government is working to protect the interests of the account holders but rumours that are being spread are the exact opposite. He said organizations such as FICCI have a responsibility to generate awareness about such issues. The FICCI also has a role to play in making GST more effective.
The PM also mentioned reforms in sectors such as defence, construction, food-processing etc. He said that as a result of these measures, India’s rank has risen from 142 to 100 in the World Bank “Ease of Doing Business” rankings. He also mentioned other indicators which point to the robust health of the economy, according to the PIB release.