Big difference since 2014, India no longer thinks small: PM to diaspora in Bali

“If it builds a statue, it would be the biggest in the world. If a stadium is built, it would also be the largest in the world,” he said.

At the same time, Modi noted, India is not a “selfish” nation, and when it prepares a road map for its development during “Amrit Kaal” — over the next 25 years, until 100 years of Independence — the “economic and political aspirations of the world are also included in it”.

“Today’s India — proud of its heritage, enriching its heritage, with the aim of touching the sky by staying connected to the roots — has set out with the goal of making a developed India. But this goal of India is not only for itself — we are not selfish people; these are not our values.”

“Today, the world has expectations from India, and India considers it as its responsibility, sees it as an obligation…we are determined to move forward toward a better world,” Modi said.

Citing various initiatives taken by his government since first assuming office in 2014, Modi said that more than 320 million bank accounts have been opened in India, which is almost equal to the total population of the United States. After 2014, he said, 3 crore houses have been built and given for free to the poor. This, he noted, is equal to the total population of Australia.

According to Modi, 55,000 km of national highways have been built in these years, equal to 1.5 times of the earth’s circumference. Besides, health benefits of Rs 5 lakh are being provided under Ayushman Bharat and the number of beneficiaries covered by the scheme is more than the combined population of the US and European Union nations, he said.

“When you hear this, don’t you feel confident? Don’t you feel proud? Doesn’t your head go up in pride,” he asked the audience.

Therefore, he said, “I say, India has changed.”

In his address, Modi also highlighted the “close cultural and civilisational links” between India and Indonesia. He referred to the age-old tradition of “Bali Jatra” to highlight the enduring cultural and trade connection between the two countries. He also spoke on the common aspects between India and Indonesia in various sectors.

The Prime Minister invited members of the Indian community to attend the next Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention, to be held in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, January 8-10, 2023 and the subsequent kite festival in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

The Prime Minister also mentioned his bond with the Bohra community.