The world today needs governments that are inclusive and free from corruption, says Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In his special keynote address at the World Governments Summit (WGS) he asserted that his mantra over the years has been ‘minimum government, maximum governance’.
Addressing the World Governments Summit here on the second day of his visit to the UAE, Modi said that the government should interfere as little as possible in the lives of people. Prime Minister Modi was a guest of honour at the WGS in Dubai following an invitation from Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President, Prime Minister, Defence Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. The summit took place on February 14, 2024, and saw the attendance of leaders from 20 countries, alongside delegates from over 120 nations.
While stressing the mantra of ‘minimum government, maximum governance’, he said: “I believe that people should neither feel the absence of a government, but at the same time, nor should there be pressure from the government.”
Adding, “In fact, I believe that the government should interfere as little as possible in the lives of people.”
During his address, PM Modi discussed the theme of the summit, “Shaping the Future Governments,” emphasizing the changing landscape of governance worldwide. He elaborated on India’s approach to governance reforms, focusing on the mantra of “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance.” PM Modi highlighted India’s utilization of digital technology to enhance welfare, inclusivity, and sustainability, advocating for a people-centric approach to governance and stressing the importance of women-led development.
“Bharat has seen a great transformation in recent times. Be it Bharat’s sanitation drive, digital literacy campaign or girl education campaign, the success of each such big goal has been ensured only through people’s participation,” he added.
Modi said that as chief minister of Gujarat and as Prime Minister he has spent 23 years in government and his principle of ‘minimum government, maximum governance’.
The prime minister said his government focused on women-led development, strengthening the financial, social, and political conditions of the Indian women.
Modi said social and financial inclusion has been his government’s priority and over 50 crore people were connected to the banking system.
“On one hand the world is progressing towards modernity, on the other, the challenges from earlier centuries are intensifying,” he said.
Today, technology is proving to be a key disruptor be it positive or negative, he said.
“Terrorism in various forms is bringing new challenges before humanity every day. Today, climate challenges are becoming widespread with time. On the one hand, there are domestic concerns, on the other hand, the international system seems in disarray,” Modi said.
“The World Government Summit has become a great medium to bring together thought leaders from across the world on a common platform. The way Dubai is emerging is an epicentre of global economy, commerce and technology, it represents a splendid example before the globe,” he said.
Hailing UAE President Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed, Modi said he is a leader with vision and resolve.
Furthermore, PM Modi emphasized the need for global collaboration to tackle interconnected challenges, calling for inclusive, technology-driven, transparent, and environmentally sustainable governance. He outlined India’s commitment to climate change action and urged global participation in initiatives like Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) to ensure a sustainable future.
He also talked about India’s leadership role in international forums such as the G-20, where he advocated for the representation of developing nations’ concerns in global decision-making processes. And called for reforms in multilateral institutions to provide greater voice to the Global South.
Ahead of his address at the summit, the PM met Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE. The two leaders discussed a wide range of areas of bilateral cooperation including trade and investment, technology, education and people-to-people ties. (Express Defence)