PM Modi Unveils Vision for India’s Development to Over 13,000 in New York

Uniondale, New York: Despite the setbacks in this year’s elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains steadfast in his vision for India. Addressing a large Indian community gathering, Modi emphasized that his vision and programs would remain unchanged even as he now leads a coalition government.

Speaking to a packed Nassau Coliseum, where over 13,000 people gathered for the Modi&US event on September 22, Modi declared, “In my 3rd term, I will work with three times more energy, speed, and commitment towards making India a developed nation.” His promise was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Modi introduced a blueprint, referred to as ‘PUSHP,’ which he said would guide India toward the goal of becoming a “Viksit Bharat,” or developed nation. The acronym ‘PUSHP’ stands for Progressive, Unstoppable, Skilled and Spiritual, Humanity First, and Prosperous. He elaborated that the country was already on this path due to its focus on education, skill-building, research, and innovation.

During his hour-long address, the Prime Minister highlighted India’s transformation in various industries. Notably, he mentioned how the country, once a major importer of mobile phones, had now become an exporter. He went on to predict, “The day is not far when Made in India chips will be available in America,” signaling a new level of technological progress for India.

Modi also underscored India’s growing influence on the global stage. “Today, when India says something on a global platform, the world listens,” he said. He cited his statement, “This is not the era of war,” made on an international stage, noting how its importance was recognized worldwide.

In particular, he praised India’s humanitarian role, emphasizing how the country had emerged as a key player in global crises. Referring to India’s pivotal role in distributing Covid-19 vaccines during the pandemic, Modi added, “India has become a first responder in global crises and remains a strong voice for the Global South.”

Strengthening U.S.-India Ties

Modi’s speech was filled with praise for the Indian community in the United States. He described them as a bridge connecting India and America, highlighting their limitless skills and talents. “Even though you have traveled overseas, no sea is deep enough to distance you from your motherland,” he told the audience, emphasizing the deep bond the Indian diaspora continues to have with their homeland.

In a move that excited many in the crowd, Modi announced the establishment of two new Indian consulates in the United States: one in Boston and another in Los Angeles. This follows the opening of a consulate in Seattle last year, further strengthening ties between the two nations.

Modi appeared relaxed and confident throughout the event, dressed in his signature kurta-pajama and jacket. His confidence was matched by the enthusiasm of the crowd, many of whom were captivated by his promises and well-rehearsed slogans such as “Modi ki guarantee hai” (“It’s Modi’s guarantee”). This marked his fifth large-scale rally with the Indian diaspora in the U.S., following the first at Madison Square Garden in New York in 2014.

Electrifying Atmosphere

The Modi&US event once again demonstrated the Prime Minister’s popularity among the Indian diaspora. The energy in the arena was electric, with the excitement palpable both inside and outside the venue. As Modi’s arrival was eagerly anticipated, the crowd enjoyed a variety of performances that celebrated India’s diverse culture. Outside the arena, dhol drums filled the air, while inside, more than 400 artists performed traditional dances like garba and mihu, alongside Bollywood-inspired acts. The celebration of India’s rich heritage set a festive tone for the gathering, which also attracted around 500 people who were seated outside.

The musical performances were another highlight of the event, with popular singers like Aditya Gadhvi, rapper Hanumankind, and Bollywood music composer Devi Sri Prasad captivating the audience. Additional performances by Aishwariya Majumdar, Chandrika Tandon, and twin sisters Kiran and Nivi added a mix of Indian classical and Western songs to the event’s cultural flair.

Diaspora’s Enthusiasm

Leaders within the Indian community expressed their pride and excitement at hosting Prime Minister Modi. Jagdish Sewhani, a prominent community leader, commented on the significance of the visit, saying, “We in Nassau County are proud and excited that an Indian prime minister, the most popular leader in the world, visited here. This was a non-political community event. We want Modi ji to tell us in the diaspora what we can do for Bharat.” Sewhani also noted that Nassau County had earlier hosted T20 World Cup matches, further deepening the connection between India and the local community.

Attendees of the event shared similar sentiments, expressing admiration for Modi’s leadership and the progress India has made under his governance. Rashmin Master, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who has lived in New York for 30 years, praised Modi’s achievements, citing initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat (Clean India) campaign, infrastructure development, improved security, and enhanced foreign relations. Master’s wife, Kalpana, a pediatrician, emphasized how India’s disadvantaged communities had benefited from the country’s economic progress under Modi’s leadership.

Looking Ahead

Modi’s address left the audience inspired and hopeful about India’s future, with his vision for a developed India resonating strongly with the crowd. His mention of the PUSHP blueprint and India’s technological advances were seen as signs that the nation is on the path to achieving greater global prominence.

The Indian community in the U.S. has long played a vital role in fostering ties between the two countries, and Modi’s outreach to the diaspora further strengthened those bonds. The event was a testament to the vibrant relationship between the U.S. and India, with the Indian-American community playing a crucial role in the success of both nations.

As Modi concluded his speech, the message was clear: India’s growth, progress, and global standing will continue to rise, backed by a determined and united effort from both the country and its citizens abroad.