Digital Infrastructure Paving The Path To Viksit Bharat: FM Nirmala Sitharaman

The minister further mentioned that nowadays, a woman residing in rural Salem has the opportunity to travel from Salem airport to Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, benefiting from the improved connectivity

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasised the significant role played by the digital infrastructure in steering the nation towards the ambitious goal of achieving a developed India, envisioned to be achieved by the year 2047. The Finance Minister made these remarks during a Viksit Bharat Ambassador meeting hosted at Vels University in Chennai on Tuesday.

The Union Minister said that when Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the digital economy initiative, numerous political adversaries expressed scepticism regarding its feasibility. Doubts were raised regarding the feasibility of digital transactions in rural areas with inadequate internet connectivity. Additionally, concerns were voiced about the transition of ordinary citizens to the digital economy.

The minister stated that the monthly count of digital transactions has reached 43 crore, with widespread adoption across all segments of society. She also said that there is a substantial volume of digital transactions occurring across the nation.

The minister emphasised that digital transactions have been structured to ensure users are not burdened with any service charges. Additionally, she highlighted the seamless interconnection among buyers, sellers, and payment methods. Furthermore, she underscored Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Udan' policy, which has opened up air travel opportunities for individuals from impoverished and rural areas. She noted that numerous private airlines in the country have collectively placed orders for approximately 600 new aircraft, reflecting the positive impact of the policy.

The minister further mentioned that nowadays, a woman residing in rural Salem has the opportunity to travel from Salem airport to Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, benefiting from the improved connectivity between towns and cities. Additionally, she highlighted the Defense Corridor of Tamil Nadu, encompassing Chennai, Hosur, Salem, Tiruchi, and Coimbatore, emphasising that it will significantly enhance the economic prospects of these urban centres as well as the surrounding villages.

She also noted that the private sector Naval Shipyard at Kuttupulli near Chennai has evolved into a crucial repair centre for US naval ships. Furthermore, she added that the employment opportunities available for students who graduate from Naval courses secured direct employment in this Naval Shipyard.

Addressing the students in attendance, the Minister urged them to assume the role of Viksit Bharat ambassadors. She also encouraged them to share the nation's growth narrative with their family, friends, and everyone they encounter.