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Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent address focused on two key areas: the imperative of cooperative federalism in implementing Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms and the significant strides made in infrastructure development, particularly in the Delhi-NCR region. Modi emphasized that his government is committed to carrying out sweeping reforms aimed at improving governance, enhancing the ease of living for citizens, and fostering a more business-friendly environment. Central to this vision is the planned overhaul of the GST system, a move he believes will deliver a 'double bonus' to the people of India, particularly during the Diwali season. The Prime Minister highlighted that the framework for these reforms has already been communicated to all states, underscoring the expectation of their swift cooperation in completing the necessary formalities. The success of these reforms hinges on the collaborative efforts of the central government and the state governments, highlighting the critical role of cooperative federalism in driving economic growth and development across the nation. Modi’s emphasis on simplification and revision of tax rates within the GST framework aims to benefit a wide spectrum of society, from families and the middle class to small and large entrepreneurs, traders, and businesspersons. This indicates a holistic approach designed to stimulate economic activity and provide relief to various segments of the population. The government's intention to carry out GST reforms was first signaled in Modi's Independence Day speech, further underscoring the importance of the GST overhaul in his administration's economic agenda. The reforms are intended to boost the economy and self-reliance of India. The reference to self-reliance, or 'Aatmanirbharta,' aligns with the government's broader vision of promoting domestic production and reducing dependence on foreign sources.
Beyond GST reforms, the Prime Minister also showcased the government's commitment to infrastructure development, citing the inauguration of two significant highway projects, the Urban Extension Road 2 and the Dwarka Expressway (Delhi section), with a combined investment of ₹11,000 crore. Modi emphasized the importance of developing Delhi as a symbol of an emerging and confident India, noting the unprecedented improvements in connectivity witnessed in the national capital region over the past decade. He lauded the progress in making Delhi-NCR one of the most well-connected areas globally, primarily attributed to the extensive metro network. The Dwarka Expressway and Urban Extension Road were specifically highlighted for their high construction standards and their contribution to Delhi’s infrastructure. The Urban Extension Road, in particular, was commended for its innovative use of millions of tonnes of waste material in its construction, showcasing a commitment to sustainable development practices. Modi also took the opportunity to criticize past administrations for their perceived slow pace of development, contrasting it with the current government's focus on completing projects quickly. He cited the significant increase in the infrastructure budget over the past 11 years as evidence of this commitment. The Prime Minister emphasized that such investments not only create public facilities but also generate large-scale employment opportunities, furthering the government's agenda of economic growth and job creation. The emphasis on infrastructure development reflects a broader strategy to stimulate economic activity, improve connectivity, and enhance the overall quality of life for citizens.
Moreover, the article emphasizes the Prime Minister's call for 'Aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) and encourages citizens to support the ‘vocal for local’ initiative. This underscores the government’s broader vision of promoting domestic industries and reducing dependence on foreign imports, fostering a sense of national pride and economic self-sufficiency. The presence of several prominent figures, including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, and the Chief Ministers of Delhi and Haryana, at the inauguration ceremony highlights the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in driving infrastructure development and economic growth in the region. The specific details provided about the Dwarka Expressway, such as its 10.1-km Delhi section being built at a cost of around ₹5,360 crore and its multi-modal connectivity to various transportation hubs, provide tangible evidence of the government's commitment to improving infrastructure and connectivity. The fact that the 19-km Haryana section of the Dwarka Expressway was inaugurated earlier in March 2024 further demonstrates the progress being made in this key infrastructure project. The explicit mention of the projects' role in decongesting Delhi and improving connectivity highlights the government's efforts to address urban challenges and improve the quality of life for residents. Overall, the article paints a picture of a government actively pursuing economic reforms, investing in infrastructure development, and promoting self-reliance, with a strong emphasis on cooperative federalism and collaboration among various stakeholders.