Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has urged young people to embrace ambition, innovation and a spirit of continuous learning to contribute to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. Addressing the ‘Young Leaders Discourse Forum’ at Kirori Mal College in New Delhi, he said that today’s youth would play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the country.
Highlighting India’s export performance, Goyal said the country recorded its highest-ever exports of $863 billion last year and has set an ambitious target of $1 trillion for the current financial year. Exports grew by 14 per cent to $480 billion during April–September, leaving $520 billion to be achieved in the remaining six months to meet the annual target.
He said that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised its global trade growth projection from 1.9 % to approximately 3.5 %. He attributed India’s economic progress to its skilled workforce, young population, democratic institutions and strong domestic demand.
Emphasizing education and skill development, the Minister highlighted the flexibility offered under the National Education Policy (NEP), which includes credit-based learning and opportunity to switch academic streams. He also noted that India’s 1.1 billion internet users provided young people with greater access to knowledge and career opportunities.
Goyal said India had emerged as a trusted global partner, with countries across various regions showing interest in preferential trade agreements (PTAs) and free trade agreements (FTAs). He also highlighted India’s contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic, through which the country provided vaccines and humanitarian aid to nations facing crises. Citing a World Bank report, he noted that approximately 500 million Indians have emerged from extreme poverty.
The minister concluded by encouraging students to maintain discipline, respect institutional traditions and pursue larger goals with confidence and courage.
(PIB)
