Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the centenary celebrations of Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) on Saturday. Addressing the gathering, he described the occasion as historic for both the college and the nation’s education sector, as multiple generations came together to mark the milestone.
“I pay tribute to the founder Shri Ram ji and bow to his vision,” remarked PM Modi.
“When an institution turns 100, it becomes an ocean of achievements and inspirations,” PM Modi said.
From Daryaganj to Global Recognition
Tracing SRCC’s remarkable evolution from a modest establishment in Daryaganj to a towering educational institution, the Prime Minister noted that the college has shaped generations and earned immense pride and recognition over the years. “Even today in DU, saying you are from SRCC is a flex in itself,” said PM Modi.
Alumni Who Became Trailblazers
Praising the college’s stellar legacy, the Prime Minister described SRCC alumni as trailblazers who have elevated the institution’s global stature across diverse fields. Recalling his personal experiences of working with notable alumni such as the late Arun Jaitley and Sanjeev Sanyal, he noted that SRCC graduates have excelled as artists, politicians, and judges. “Meaning, the alumni of SRCC have made their mark in every field,” PM Narendra Modi said.
A Speech That Still Resonates
Reflecting on the nostalgia surrounding the centenary celebrations, the Prime Minister noted that many people were fondly remembering and revisiting his 2013 address at the college.
He said the speech had created a lasting wave whose positive impact remained completely intact even after 13 to 14 years. “Devoting myself wholeheartedly to the country is the inner passion that manifested in my words that day,” said Prime Minister Modi.
From Challenges to Confidence
Contrasting the struggles of the past with today’s achievements, the Prime Minister emphasized that terrorism has been defeated, with the armed forces confidently striking enemies in their own homes and peace restored from Jammu and Kashmir to the Northeast. He highlighted that the world now praises India’s policy dynamism and its position as the fastest-growing major economy.
“Achieving a 7.8 percent quarterly growth amidst the West Asia war and global trade hurdles demonstrates India’s intrinsic capability,” said PM Modi.
Growth Figures Highlight India’s Momentum
Presenting economic data to counter persistent critics, the Prime Minister said that between April and June, electricity production increased by 9 percent, while overall vehicle sales surged by over 20 percent, driven by 20 percent growth in two-wheelers and nearly 30 percent in three-wheelers. He argued that an 8 percent increase in steel and cement consumption demonstrated that construction, housing and commercial activity were rapidly expanding.
“Despite this, for the people who saw the glass as half-empty in 2013, their mindset remains exactly the same today,” PM Modi said.
Jan Dhan Becomes a Pillar of Financial Inclusion
Recalling his 2013 promise of Pro-People Good Governance (P2G2), the Prime Minister said his government had permanently discarded the reactive approach of previous administrations. He cited the 12-year success of the Jan Dhan Yojana as a prime example, recalling that until March 2014, more than 50 percent of India’s 1.25 billion population lacked bank accounts. The scheme, he said, has now integrated around 60 crore citizens into the banking system.
“Today almost every family in the country is connected to the banking system, which has formed the foundation of India’s Fintech revolution,” PM Modi said.
Make in India: From Importer to Exporter
Defending the ‘Make in India’ initiative against the mockery it faced in its early years, the Prime Minister highlighted its success in transforming India from a massive importer into a leading exporter. He said smartphone exports now exceed Rs 2.5 lakh crore, while domestic defence production has reached an all-time high of nearly Rs 2 lakh crore. He contrasted this with defence exports of just Rs 600-700 crore in 2013-14, which have now grown into a Rs 40,000 crore industry.
“I am not a person who walks with small and easy goals; I set huge targets for the country and put my heart and soul into achieving them,” said PM Modi.
A Bold Roadmap for Viksit Bharat
Expressing immense trust in the youth and the capability of 140 crore Indians, the Prime Minister outlined a bold vision for a self-reliant and fully developed India. He listed ambitious future milestones, including making India a superpower in agricultural exports, establishing an Indian space station, and eventually hosting the Olympic Games.
“And these are not just talks, these are our firm resolutions,” asserted PM Modi.
Beyond Campus, Into the Real World
Transitioning from lively campus experiences such as tea at the Co-op, Crossroads and the Business Conclave to the realities of the outside world, the Prime Minister cautioned students against cynical individuals who compulsively oppose national progress. He pointed out that such naysayers had repeatedly questioned major initiatives, including the world’s tallest statue, high-speed trains, UPI and the new Parliament building.
“But India gave an answer: no one can stop India from doing what is necessary for the country,” said the Prime Minister.
Speeding Up India’s Transformation
Highlighting the unprecedented pace of infrastructure development and policy execution, the Prime Minister noted that projects which previously took decades are now being completed within just a few years. He pointed out that although India’s first electric train ran in 1925, less than 30 percent of railway lines had been electrified by 2014. In contrast, his government achieved nearly 100 percent railway electrification in just 12 years. He also highlighted Free Trade Agreements signed with 40 countries covering sectors such as leather, textiles and processed foods.
“This is creating a new sky of opportunities for the youth of India,” PM Narendra Modi said.
Crisis After Crisis, India Moves Forward
PM Modi also recalled his administration’s handling of severe modern crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war. “There is so much power in the blessings of the people of my country that every desire of those wishing ill upon India is falling flat,” said PM Modi.
Dream Bigger, Build Global
Encouraging the ambitious spirit of 21st-century youth, the Prime Minister celebrated their drive to build unicorns, innovate in drone technology and create cutting-edge AI solutions. He urged young Indians to dream even bigger than previous generations and challenged them to build global consulting, accounting, financial and legal firms capable of leading the world. “Today, Indians are leading the top companies of the world, so why can’t companies built by Indians lead the world?” said PM Modi.
Drawing inspiration from the SRCC college crest, the Prime Minister compared the journey of India’s youth to a ship advancing towards a guiding sun. He called upon everyone to chart a new path of self-reliance, where the courage, dreams and ultimate victory belong entirely to India. “On the path to a Viksit Bharat, every rapidly rising step should be ours,” he asserted.
-(with PIB inputs)
