Daijiworld Media Network - Lucknow
Lucknow, Apr 11: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that India continues to remain one of the fastest-growing major economies despite ongoing global geopolitical challenges, while stressing that the vision of a developed nation by 2047 requires collective effort.
Speaking at an event in Lucknow, he underlined that the idea of “Viksit Bharat@2047” is rooted in inclusive growth, where every citizen contributes to and benefits from development. He said the principle of ensuring that “no one is left behind” must guide the country’s progress.
Highlighting Lucknow’s growing importance in the defence sector, Singh said the city has emerged as a key hub, having been designated a defence node along with Agra and Kanpur. He noted that the BrahMos missile is now being manufactured in Lucknow, with the first batch already delivered to the armed forces. He added that several small and large defence manufacturing units are being set up in the region, strengthening local industry.
Earlier, addressing the annual celebration of the Jan Kalyan Maha Samiti in Gomti Nagar, the minister reflected on Uttar Pradesh’s transformation. He said the state, once labelled as “BIMARU,” is now being recognised as “Uttam Pradesh,” pointing to improvements in law and order and overall development.
He also spoke about cultural initiatives, mentioning the Lucknow Culture and Art Museum at the Hussainabad Clock Tower, which aims to preserve and showcase the heritage of Awadh. According to him, such projects will not only strengthen cultural identity but also boost tourism and create employment opportunities for local artisans and businesses.
On infrastructure, Singh announced the construction of National Highway 927, a 101-kilometre four-lane corridor from Barabanki to Bahraich, with an estimated investment of Rs 7,000 crore. The project is expected to significantly cut travel time between the two locations from about 2.5 hours to nearly 1.25 hours.
He added that the highway will also support the development of a new corridor around the state capital region, further accelerating economic growth and connectivity in and around Lucknow.