India’s Foreign Policy Shaped by Keeping Interests of Youth in Mind: Modi

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the BJP-led NDA government is committed to empowering the youth and shaping the country’s foreign policy with the interests of young Indians in mind.

In a video address at the 17th Rozgar Mela, where 51,000 appointment letters for government jobs were distributed, the Prime Minister said that India, being the youngest nation in the world, draws its strength from the potential of its youth.

Pointing out that youth empowerment remains the top priority of his government, Modi said that over the past 11 years, the nation has moved forward with the vision of building a developed India, with youth playing a pivotal role in this journey.

He noted that Rozgar Melas have become a powerful platform to fulfill young Indians’ aspirations, with more than 11 lakh appointment letters issued in recent years.

Modi said the government’s efforts go beyond government jobs. Under the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, the government aims to create employment for 3.5 crore youth. Initiatives such as the Skill India Mission are providing the necessary training, while the National Career Service platform connects youth to job opportunities. So far, information about over seven crore vacancies has been shared through the portal.

Announcing a new initiative, the Prime Minister launched the Pratibha Setu Portal, which will provide opportunities for candidates who reached the final list of the UPSC but were not selected. He said their efforts would not go in vain, as both private and public institutions can now engage with them through this portal.

“This optimal use of youth talent will showcase India’s immense potential to the world,” he said.

Modi also highlighted the ongoing GST Bachat Utsav during the festive season, noting that GST reforms have not only reduced rates but also expanded job opportunities across the economy. He said record-breaking sales during Dhanteras and Diwali reflected the positive impact of these reforms on the MSME and retail sectors, creating new jobs in manufacturing, logistics, packaging, and distribution.

“India is the youngest country in the world, and its youth are our greatest asset,” the Prime Minister said, adding that this belief guides national progress across all sectors, including foreign policy.

He added that India’s global engagements and MoUs increasingly include provisions for youth training, upskilling, and job creation. During the recent visit of the UK Prime Minister, both countries agreed to boost investments in AI, fintech, and clean energy. Modi said the Free Trade Agreement with the UK and investment partnerships with several European nations will generate thousands of new jobs.

“Agreements with countries like Brazil, Singapore, Korea, and Canada will further strengthen startups, MSMEs, and exports, opening new opportunities for youth to work on global projects,” he added.