Jaishankar highlighted his discomfort in discussing Delhi’s shortcomings abroad, revealing that he feels embarrassed to admit that citizens lack access to basic necessities. He criticized the city’s infrastructure and alleged that the AAP government had neglected its responsibilities for the past decade.

The Union Minister’s comments come amid growing discontent in the city, as Delhi is set to vote on February 5 in a fiercely contested election between the AAP, BJP, and Congress. BJP leaders, including Amit Shah and Anurag Thakur, have echoed similar accusations, claiming AAP’s governance is marred by corruption and unfulfilled promises.

As the elections approach, the battle for Delhi’s 70 Assembly seats intensifies, with all three major parties engaged in high-octane campaigns.

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Referring to the concept of a “double engine” propelling progress, Jaishankar noted how Odisha’s strategic location, resources, and talent pool make it indispensable to India’s rise on the global stage. The External Affairs Minister called India’s diaspora a “living bridge” connecting the nation to the world, stating, “India will be unique as a major power rising by using its diaspora as an important pathway to globalisation and its ascent in the international order.”

Jaishankar emphasised three fundamental pillars of economic growth—Trade, Technology, and Tourism—urging Odisha to leverage these sectors for a transformative future.

Trade: Unlocking Odisha’s Potential

The Minister underlined the need for investments, infrastructure, and connectivity to capitalise on Odisha’s abundant resources. He stressed the importance of adding value to raw materials and strengthening trade ties, particularly with Southeast Asia, by utilising the state’s prime location along India’s eastern seaboard. “Resources need investments, facilities, and connectivity,” Jaishankar remarked, emphasising the importance of integrating Odisha’s economic strengths into India’s broader trade strategies.

Technology: Driving a Digital Economy

Focusing on the role of technology, Jaishankar pointed to Odisha’s young and skilled population, alongside its robust educational infrastructure. In the digital age, trust in technology has become synonymous with skilled talent, he observed. The Minister encouraged Odisha to harness its talent pool to create a thriving tech-driven economy, highlighting the potential for collaborations and advancements in the sector. “Technology is increasingly associated with trusted talent,” he noted, urging the state to prioritise its tech ecosystem.

Tourism: A Transformative Force

Describing tourism as a “multiplier” and a significant job generator, Jaishankar urged Odisha to capitalise on its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Investments in tourism, he argued, could drive sustainable economic development while creating long-term opportunities for local communities. He emphasised that tourism not only boosts the economy but also enhances Odisha’s global appeal, positioning it as a key player in India’s cultural and economic diplomacy.

Odisha and Purvodaya: Eastern India’s Renaissance

The Minister reaffirmed the Modi Government’s commitment to the “Purvodaya” initiative, which aims to revitalise Eastern India, with Odisha at its core. He assured that practical policies and infrastructure development would ensure the state’s growth aligns with the broader vision for Eastern India.

The Role of Leadership in Driving Growth

Jaishankar also spoke about the critical factors influencing business investment decisions, such as ease of doing business, political stability, and robust infrastructure. He commended the leadership of “Team Odisha,” expressing confidence in their ability to inspire trust among investors.

“Today, you have Team Odisha’s leadership in front of you. I am confident that it inspires as much confidence in you as it does in me,” he concluded, striking an optimistic tone for the state’s future.

This address at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas reinforced the integral role of India’s diaspora, Odisha’s potential, and the strategic direction of the Modi Government in driving the nation’s global aspirations.

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