I have Three Visions for India
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
In his speech, the eminent scientist and former President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, articulated three essential aspirations for the future of India. He suggested that these visions might pave the way for the nation to become an advanced and affluent nation in the future. The independence of individuals, the advancement of society, and taking a leading role in the globe are the focal points of each of the three ideals.
Vision of Freedom
Dr. Kalam held the belief that India’s lengthy fight for independence ought to serve as a source of motivation for subsequent generations. He emphasized the significance of freedom, pointing out that it does not just refer to the lack of external rule but also to the liberation from a variety of societal ills, including as poverty, illiteracy, and corruption. He also noted the significance of freedom. He highlighted the following as the five most important areas in which India should flourish to realize this vision of freedom:
- Agriculture and Food Processing: Dr. Kalam believed that India should place a primary emphasis on improving the viability and productivity of the country’s agricultural sector. In order to accomplish this goal, it would be necessary to implement innovative farming practices, grow genetically modified crops, and build a robust food processing business. Doing so would help reduce food waste while also adding value to the agricultural sector.
- Education and Healthcare: The former President was of the opinion that investing in the country’s educational and medical systems is necessary for the country’s overall growth and development. In order to meet the requirements of the expanding population, he advocated for the foundation of hospitals, research facilities, and educational establishments of the highest international caliber.
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT): Dr. Kalam recognized ICT as a fundamental driver of economic growth and social transformation. ICT stands for “information and communication technology.” He emphasized how important it was to have extensive internet connectivity, especially in rural regions, in order to close the digital divide, which would in turn encourage innovation and entrepreneurialism.
- The Development of Infrastructure: Dr. Kalam was of the opinion that in order to support India’s expanding economy, the country needed to make significant investments in infrastructure. This included transportation, energy, and urban planning. He envisioned the construction of modern airports, high-speed train networks, integrated motorways, and renewable energy projects.
- Self-reliance in Critical Technologies: Dr. Kalam emphasized the significance of achieving self-sufficiency in critical technologies, including defense, space exploration, and nuclear energy, among other examples. He suggested that if India were to create its own indigenous technologies, the country might improve its national security while also decreasing its reliance on imports from other countries.
Vision for Development
In his speech, Dr. Kalam emphasized the importance of sustainable and inclusive development, with a primary focus on the following three areas:
- The Growth of the Economy: Dr. Kalam advocated for an economic model that would put an emphasis on the creation of new jobs, entrepreneurial endeavors, and innovative ideas. He was of the opinion that if India placed more emphasis on industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and service industries, it might attain GDP growth in the double digits and lower levels of poverty.
- Environmental Sustainability: In this regard, Dr. Kalam stressed the significance of ensuring that the natural world and its resources are protected for the benefit of future generations. In order to counteract climate change and maintain natural equilibrium, he called for the implementation of conservation practices, afforestation projects, and clean and renewable energy sources.
- Social Equity: The previous President was of the opinion that progress should be all-encompassing and provide advantages to all segments of society. He advocated for the promotion of social harmony and justice, as well as the elimination of discrimination on the basis of caste, gender inequity, and regional imbalances.
Vision of India Standing Up in the World
Dr. Kalam had a vision of India rising to the position of global leader and making significant contributions to international peace and prosperity. He proposed a few different approaches to realize this vision, including the following:
- Fostering a Knowledge-based Society: Dr. Kalam was of the opinion that India’s enormous young population had the potential to be the country’s most valuable resource if it was properly utilized. He advocated the establishment of a civilization that is built on the accumulation of information and places a premium on innovation, research, and the quest for perfection.
- Strengthening National Security: Dr. Kalam argued that India must enhance its defense capabilities and adopt a proactive foreign policy to protect its national interests and maintain regional stability.
- Establishing Global Partnerships: The previous president was an advocate for establishing robust and strategic partnerships with nations all over the world. He placed an emphasis on collaboration in the areas of commerce, investment, technological advancement, and the sharing of cultural traditions. He was of the opinion that India could play a significant part in the formation of international affairs if it focused on cultivating partnerships that were favorable to both parties.
- Demonstrating India’s Soft Power: Dr. Kalam emphasized how important it is to demonstrate India’s soft power by demonstrating the country’s rich cultural heritage, traditions, and values on the international stage. India has the potential to increase its tourism and goodwill abroad as well as its international reputation if it works to promote its “soft power.”
- Leveraging the Indian Diaspora: Dr. Kalam saw the Indian diaspora as a vital resource that might assist in realizing his vision of India standing up in the world. He proposed interacting with members of the diaspora and working together with them in order to get access to global networks, information, and resources, which would ultimately be beneficial to the growth and development of India.