Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the urgent need for India to develop “future-ready” cities during his opening address at the 10th Governing Council Meeting of NITI Aayog on Saturday. Highlighting rapid urbanization, Modi urged the Centre and all states to collaborate closely and accelerate development efforts.
“India is urbanizing at a fast pace. Our cities must become engines of growth, innovation, and sustainability,” the Prime Minister said, stressing that collective action as “Team India” would make any goal achievable.
A key focus of his address was on tourism, with Modi urging every state to develop at least one world-class tourist destination. “One State: One Global Destination,” he said, noting that such efforts would spur the growth of neighboring towns and boost regional economies.
Addressing social inclusion, Modi called for greater participation of women in India’s workforce. He emphasized the need for policies and laws that facilitate respectful and meaningful integration of women into the labor market.
The Governing Council meeting, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, centered on the theme ‘Viksit Rajya for Viksit Bharat@2047,’ reflecting India’s vision for becoming a developed nation by its centenary year of independence.
The platform brings together representatives from the Centre and States/UTs to deliberate on strategies to turn India’s vision into reality. Discussions will also focus on promoting entrepreneurship, skill development, and creating sustainable employment opportunities across the country.
Modi’s clarion call for a united push toward development underscores the role of states as the cornerstone for building a prosperous and inclusive India.
