Governance – Modi Government Marks Twelve Years of National Progress
Governance – The Central government has highlighted a decade-long period of policy reforms, infrastructure development, and welfare initiatives that it says have contributed significantly to India’s progress and global standing.
Union Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma stated on Sunday that India has emerged as a stronger and more influential nation during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s twelve years in office. Speaking at a press conference held at the BJP district office in Bhimavaram, the Minister said the government’s focus on inclusive growth has helped extend the benefits of development to people from various sections of society.
Focus on Welfare and Social Inclusion
Addressing the media during an event commemorating twelve years of the Modi-led administration, Srinivasa Varma said the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government had introduced several flagship programmes designed to support economically weaker communities, women, young people, and farmers. According to him, these initiatives have strengthened opportunities for financial inclusion and self-employment across the country.
He also noted that India’s image on the international stage has improved considerably over the years. The Minister said that citizens living both within the country and abroad increasingly take pride in India’s achievements in multiple sectors, including economic development and governance.
Expansion of Financial Access
Highlighting major welfare achievements, Srinivasa Varma pointed to the large-scale expansion of banking services through the Jan Dhan programme. He said more than 58 crore bank accounts have been opened nationwide under the initiative, with Andhra Pradesh accounting for over 1.69 crore of those accounts.
The Minister further emphasized the impact of the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, which provides financial assistance to small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs. He stated that more than 57 crore Mudra loans have been sanctioned across the country, enabling millions of individuals to establish or expand their enterprises. In Andhra Pradesh alone, the value of sanctioned loans has crossed ₹1.36 lakh crore, reflecting substantial participation in the scheme.
Infrastructure Projects Driving Development
Srinivasa Varma said Andhra Pradesh is experiencing accelerated development due to cooperation between the NDA governments at both the Centre and the State. He highlighted several major infrastructure and industrial projects that are expected to strengthen the state’s economy and improve connectivity.
Among the projects mentioned were the Polavaram irrigation project, the Visakhapatnam Railway Zone, Bhogapuram International Airport, and significant investments in the steel and refinery sectors. He said these initiatives are expected to generate employment opportunities and contribute to long-term economic growth.
Increased Investment in Transport and Healthcare
The Minister also underlined the Centre’s commitment to improving public infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh through substantial allocations for railway and highway projects. He said record levels of funding have been directed toward expanding transportation networks and improving connectivity across the state.
In addition, Srinivasa Varma noted that several medical colleges and healthcare institutions have received approval from the Central government. These developments, he said, are intended to strengthen healthcare services and improve access to medical education and treatment facilities for residents.
Concluding his remarks, the Minister reiterated that the government remains focused on strengthening infrastructure, supporting welfare programmes, and creating opportunities that contribute to balanced and inclusive development across the country.