Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday showcased India’s democratic strength, rising global stature and expanding partnership with the Netherlands while addressing a large gathering of the Indian diaspora during his visit to the European country.
Speaking to an enthusiastic audience chanting ‘Modi, Modi’, the Prime Minister referred to the recently concluded Assembly elections in Assam, Bengal, Keralam, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, highlighting the high voter turnout and increasing participation of women voters.
“In the recently concluded Assembly elections in Assam, Bengal, Keralam, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, there was 80-90 per cent voting, in which the women’s participation has significantly increased. We are proud that voters are continuing to break voting records,” PM Modi said.
Lightening the atmosphere, the Prime Minister jokingly asked the crowd, “Has Jhalmuri reached here too?” drawing loud applause.
Emphasising India’s democratic credentials, PM Modi said the country’s electoral participation remained unmatched globally.
“India has more than 90 crore registered voters. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, 64 crore people voted. This means that more Indians voted than the total population of the European Union,” he said.
Calling India the ‘Mother of democracy,’ Prime Minister Modi said democratic participation remained a matter of national pride.
The Prime Minister also warned that the world was facing multiple crises, including Covid, wars and an energy crisis. He said unresolved challenges could reverse decades of global progress.
PM Modi said India and the Netherlands were working together to build resilient and future-ready supply chains amid global uncertainties. He also expressed confidence that the recently signed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement would deepen economic and strategic ties.
Drawing a symbolic comparison, Prime Minister said, “Just like the Netherlands is known for its Tulips, India is known for its Lotuses.”
The Prime Minister also praised sporting ties between the two countries. He recalled the contribution of the Surinami-Hindustani community.
PM Modi also urged the diaspora to contribute actively to India’s growth journey.
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