3 min readBrisbaneNov 18, 2014 01:23 AM IST
First published on: Nov 18, 2014 at 01:23 AM IST
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday pitched India to business leaders of Queensland as a different place with no uncertain and unpredictable pathways or hurdles.
At a business breakfast hosted by Queensland Premier Campbell Newman, Modi commended his efforts to make it possible for an investment of AUD 16 billion in coal mining. The Adani Group and the GVK Group both have plans to invest almost AUD 8 billion each in coal mining, rail and port projects. “It will set a new standard for India-Australia cooperation and demonstrate how Australia and Queensland can be a vital partner in meeting India`s requirement for energy and other vital resources,” he said.
India today is Queensland’s fourth largest export destination, and is also emerging as a major investment destination. “Queensland can be an important partner in India`s development – in energy, mineral resources, agriculture and food security, education and advanced technology in some areas,” the Prime Minister said.
Modi said his government has launched a major set of reforms to boost economic growth and improve the quality of life of people. Higher FDI in railways, defence and insurance, was one of them, he said. Besides, the government has gone had and introduced legislative changes to labour laws to make them more flexible. “On the policy side, We have made big changes in our policies on fuel – coal, natural gas, diesel,” he added.
He elaborated the changes initiated in the areas of policy, institutions and processes. Besides, Modi spoke about the new initiatives such as Make in India, smart cities and clean Ganga taken by him. As far as processes are concerned, the Prime Minister said India was changing the very way it works. “Good governance is the starting point of change. It is as important to business as it is to ordinary citizens,” he said.
The government was eliminating unnecessary laws and regulations, bringing more transparency and making processes easier and shorter. Also, there is a concerted effort and focus on ease of doing business. “We are partnering with state governments and even going doing to districts and villages,” he said.
“You will not only be able to convert opportunities into partnerships, you will do it in an environment that is welcoming and easy to do business in,” Modi said. After his address, he heard the views of business leader and their suggestions for a stronger relationship.
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