India Reaffirms 2047 Developed Nation Goal, Urges Inclusive Growth
By Princess Ekwi Ajide
India’s ambition to become a developed nation by 2047 must translate into tangible benefits for ordinary citizens, President Droupadi Murmu has said.
Delivering the President’s Independence Day message at India’s 80th Independence Day celebration in Abuja, the High Commissioner of India to Nigeria, Abhishek Singh, said the country’s Viksit Bharat vision is anchored on inclusive development, national security and greater citizen participation.
The celebration, which featured a blend of Indian and Nigerian cultural displays, was attended by members of the Indian community in Nigeria and other guests.
President Murmu highlighted what she described as significant progress in poverty reduction and social welfare, noting that more than 25 crore people had moved out of poverty, while nearly 59 crore people had been brought into the formal banking system through the Jan Dhan Yojana, including more than 32 crore women.
She also cited free food support for more than 80 crore people and health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh for 60 crore citizens under the Ayushman Bharat programme.
On foreign policy, Murmu reaffirmed India’s commitment to peace, dialogue and international cooperation, while calling for stronger representation of developing countries in global institutions.
She also urged citizens to protect the environment for future generations, stressing that building a stronger, prosperous and inclusive India requires the collective responsibility of citizens and institutions.
