Prime Minister Narendra Modi started his speech by quoting a Shloka from the Vedas and said that when applied to India, what it means is that the country has achieved great success even while discharging its duty.
He said India had achieved an extraordinary milestone of administering one billion COVID-19 vaccines and credited 130 Crore Citizens with the victory.
And this billion is not merely a number, but it reflects India’s potential, the Prime Minister said.
Mr. Modi said that this presented the picture of a new India which can be highly industrious to achieve its goals.
Doubts cleared, Questions answered
As India relied on vaccines developed by other nations in the past, doubts were cast on the country’s abilities to cope with the century’s biggest health crisis, but the 100 Cr doses of the vaccine have answered all those questions, he said.
Mr. Modi said that the world will now consider India safer from the coronavirus because of the billion vaccinations.
The Indian pharmaceutical sector has gained even more credence, and the world is now sensing India’s strength, he said.
This accomplishment is an example of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas,’ the PM said.
Rich or Poor, City or Village, everyone was vaccinated without any discrimination and free of charge, he added.
Scientific approach and Public Participation
The government made public participation its first line of defense, the PM said.
On several occasions, the country has seen one crore doses being administered, he reminded.
The PM said that science and Technology are what made this possible, adding that a scientific approach was taken to distribute the vaccines amongst the states.
The Indian-made COWIN platform has facilitated the process for both vaccine-takers and healthcare professionals, he said.
Economy on the move again
The Prime Minister said that record investments are flowing into the Indian companies, providing employment opportunities. Indian startups are also thriving, he said.
With the record vaccinations, sports, tourism, and entertainment have picked up the pace, said Mr. Modi.
The PM asked people to go vocal for local and to buy things that are made in India. The craze for foreign-made goods has faded, the PM said.
Although the previous Diwali was tense, this year’s festival sees people more confident, and the vaccinations will boost shopping, he said.
It’s not over yet
Despite vaccinations, the prime minister said people must not let up their guard and follow the COVID-appropriate behavior because the pandemic is not yet fully behind us.