Modi: Modern Battles Fought With Code, Cloud

Addressing the annual NCC PM Rally at the Cariappa Parade Ground at Delhi Cantonment, Modi the recently-sealed Free Trade Agreement with the European Union was being praised as the “mother of all deals” and being described as a “global gamechanger”.

Flagging that nations lagging in technology are weak not only in the economy but also in security, Modi said that innovation by youth strengthens patriotism and contributes to national security. Emphasising that Operation Sindoor had reaffirmed India’s strength and the valour of its armed forces, he said it also demonstrated the advancement of indigenous weapons.

He added that new opportunities are opening for tech-savvy, innovative youth in the armed forces, with defence startups excelling, Made in India drones being developed, and AI and defence innovation modernising the forces, urging young people to take full advantage of these possibilities.

Mentioning the recent FTA with the European Union, Modi explained that under this agreement, tariffs on more than 99 per cent of India’s exports will either be zero or very low, benefiting industries such as textiles, leather, gems and jewellery, footwear, engineering goods and MSMEs.

He stressed that weavers, artisans, and small entrepreneurs will gain direct access to the vast markets of 27 European countries.

The PM said the deal will also bring more investment to India, leading to new engineering, electronics, chemical, pharma, and other manufacturing plants, while creating assured markets for agriculture, food processing, and fisheries, which will be a major opportunity for farmers, fishermen, and rural youth.

Modi remarked that this FTA directly connects India’s youth to Europe’s job market, creating opportunities especially in engineering, green technology, design, logistics and advanced manufacturing, meaning new avenues are opening for Indian youth across 27 countries.

He said that the government is expanding global opportunities through comprehensive reforms, and the reform express on which the nation is riding today is removing every obstacle before the youth.

Lauding the impressive tableau on “Operation Sindoor” in the Republic Day parade, Modi specifically appreciated the efforts of NCC cadets during that critical moment for national security. He mentioned their contributions in supporting the armed forces, organising blood donation camps, and providing first-aid services.

The PM said that NCC training is not limited to the parade ground but also instils the spirit of “Nation First”, which inspires cadets to work with full strength for the country in difficult times.

He recalled that his own sense of “Nation First” was strengthened during his time in the NCC, and he expressed satisfaction at seeing the same values being learned by cadets today.

Mentioning that the nation recently celebrated National Voters’ Day on January 25 and said he wrote a letter to citizens on this occasion. Modi said National Voters’ Day is a celebration of the responsibility and rights bestowed by the Constitution, and highlighted that India has the largest number of young voters in the world.

He remarked that when young citizens turn 18 and become eligible to vote, they gain the power to shape the nation’s destiny. Modi called for a new tradition in the country, proposing that NCC, NSS, and My Young India organisation hold a grand event every January 25 to honour first-time voters, expressing confidence that this effort will strengthen the sense of responsibility among youth and reinforce democracy.