Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on Saturday. The week-long event, running from January 4 to 9, centres on bolstering rural infrastructure, fostering innovation, and enhancing economic stability in rural India. Themed “Building a Resilient Rural India for a Viksit Bharat 2047,” the Mahotsav reflects the government’s commitment to empowering villages.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and NABARD Chairperson Shaji KV were present at the inauguration, where Shaji KV felicitated the Prime Minister.
In his address, PM Modi underscored the critical role of rural prosperity in achieving India’s development goals. He stated, “The more prosperous our villages become, the greater will be their role in realising the resolve of a developed India.”
The Prime Minister interacted with artisans at the Mahotsav, acknowledging their contributions to rural economies. However, he expressed concern over efforts by some individuals to disrupt peace through caste politics, calling for collective action to maintain social harmony.
Highlighting the achievements of the NDA government, Modi referred to an SBI research report that shows a dramatic reduction in rural poverty—from 26 per cent in 2012 to below 5 per cent today. He criticised previous governments for neglecting rural India, leaving villages deprived of necessities. PM Modi assured that his administration has prioritised uplifting marginalised communities and empowering rural areas.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a saturation drive by banks for 16 government schemes, including Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, PM Mudra, and PM SVANidhi, to ensure financial inclusion reaches the grassroots level.
Focus on Aspirations and Empowerment
The Mahotsav aims to promote economic self-reliance in rural India through initiatives focusing on financial inclusion, sustainable agriculture, and rural entrepreneurship. Special attention is being given to North-East India and empowering rural women. Workshops, discussions, and masterclasses will be held to explore leveraging technology for rural livelihoods and showcasing India’s cultural heritage.
Earlier in the week, PM Modi inaugurated 1,675 newly constructed flats for residents of JJ clusters at Swabhiman Apartments, Ashok Vihar, Delhi. This underscores the government’s parallel focus on urban renewal alongside rural development.
(With agency inputs)
