Prime Minister Modi Champions Economic Empowerment for Street Vendors and Expands Delhi Metro in a Sweeping Urban Development Initiative
The Prime Minister addressed beneficiaries of the PM SVANidhi scheme at JLN
Stadium in Delhi, distributing loans to 1 lakh street vendors, including 5,000 from Delhi under the scheme. In a significant move to enhance urban connectivity, he also laid the foundation stone for two additional corridors of Delhi Metro’s Phase 4.
During his address, he highlighted the crucial role of street vendors in the urban ecosystem and the transformative impact of the PM SVANidhi Yojana in supporting their livelihoods. Acknowledging the entrepreneurial spirit of street vendors, he noted that their small stalls harbour big dreams, emphasising the government's commitment to nurturing these aspirations through targeted financial support.
The Prime Minister criticised past administrations for overlooking the welfare of street vendors, resulting in their reliance on high-interest loans and exclusion from formal banking services. He assured that the current government, under his leadership, is dedicated to the welfare of those previously neglected, providing them with a 'Modi Guarantee' of support and respect.
Highlighting the success of the PM SVANidhi scheme, he shared that 62 lakh beneficiaries have received assistance amounting to Rs 11,000 crores, with women making up more than half of the recipients. He also pointed out the scheme's role in increasing vendors' incomes and facilitating access to banking benefits through digital transactions.
The Prime Minister underscored the holistic approach of integrating street vendors into the broader social welfare system, enabling them to benefit from schemes such as free rations, healthcare, and housing. He stressed the importance of the 'One Nation One Ration Card' scheme in ensuring food security for mobile populations.
In the realm of urban development, he noted the expansion of the Delhi Metro network and the introduction of electric buses to combat pollution and traffic congestion. He praised the development of expressways around Delhi and the promotion of sports through the Khelo India initiative.
In conclusion, the Prime Minister reiterated his dedication to improving the lives of the poor and middle classes, aligning the nation's welfare with his vision of making India the world's third-largest economy. He affirmed that the partnership between the citizens' dreams and his resolve is a guarantor of a prosperous future.
The Prime Minister's engagement with the PM SVANidhi scheme and the initiation of the Delhi Metro’s Phase 4 corridors signify a comprehensive approach towards urban development and inclusive growth. The PM SVANidhi scheme, since its inception during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, has served as a crucial support mechanism for street vendors, helping them sustain their livelihoods and contribute to the urban economy. By distributing loans to 1 lakh vendors, including a significant number from Delhi, the government is reinforcing its commitment to the grassroots level economic empowerment of one of the most vulnerable segments of society.
Moreover, the laying of foundation stones for the Lajpat Nagar – Saket-G Block and Inderlok – Indraprastha corridors of the Delhi Metro’s Phase 4 expansion is a testament to the government's vision of enhancing urban mobility. The expansion aims not just to alleviate traffic congestion but also to ensure that the city's transport infrastructure can sustain its growing population and the dynamic demands of urbanisation. This development is poised to make public transport more accessible and efficient for millions of Delhi's residents and visitors.
The Prime Minister's narrative during the event painted a picture of a government deeply invested in the welfare of its citizens, particularly those who have been marginalised or overlooked by previous administrations. The focus on digital transactions and the encouragement of women vendors highlight a shift towards modernisation and gender inclusivity in the economic sphere.
Additionally, the Prime Minister's emphasis on schemes like free rations, healthcare, and housing underlines a holistic approach to social welfare, aiming to ensure that the benefits of India’s economic growth are equitably distributed. The narrative of empowerment and self-reliance resonates with the broader objectives of the government's policies, from the promotion of digital India to initiatives aimed at building a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable urban environment.
The event at JLN Stadium, attended by key government officials and reaching lakhs of street vendors and their families across the country, serves as a significant milestone in the government’s endeavour to foster a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous India. The Prime Minister's assurance of unwavering support for the poor and middle classes, coupled with ambitious targets for India's global economic standing, sets a forward-looking agenda for the nation's development trajectory.
As the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration propels forward with initiatives like PM SVANidhi and the expansion of the Delhi Metro, the narrative of development extends beyond mere economic metrics to encompass a vision of holistic societal progress. This approach recognises the intricate link between urban infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and the micro-economies of street vendors, highlighting an integrated strategy for national development.
The emphasis on technology and digital transactions within the PM SVANidhi scheme illustrates the government's push towards a digital economy, facilitating transparency and efficiency in financial transactions. This not only aids street vendors in becoming part of the formal economy but also paves the way for their financial inclusion and empowerment.
Furthermore, the expansion of the Delhi Metro and the introduction of electric buses reflect a commitment to sustainable urban development. By reducing reliance on personal vehicles, these initiatives contribute significantly to reducing urban pollution levels, thereby enhancing the quality of life within the city. The focus on electric mobility, in particular, aligns with India’s commitments to climate action, underscoring the nation’s role in the global effort to combat climate change.
The holistic welfare schemes mentioned by the Prime Minister, including housing for the urban poor and the 'One Nation One Ration Card' scheme, are pivotal in ensuring that the dividends of India's economic growth are accessible to all. These programmes demonstrate a government philosophy that prioritises human dignity and the right to a decent standard of living for every citizen.
The construction of pucca houses in urban areas and the regularisation of unauthorised colonies are significant steps towards achieving housing for all, a critical component of urban development. These initiatives not only provide secure living spaces for the urban poor but also integrate them into the formal cityscape, offering them access to essential services and a better quality of life.
The Prime Minister's address underscored a vision of India where the development of infrastructure, economy, and technology goes hand in hand with environmental sustainability and social welfare. By weaving together the aspirations of common citizens with policy initiatives and development projects, the government aims to build a future that is prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable.