New Delhi, Jun 12 (JKNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged States and Union Territories to harness the opportunities offered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) while remaining vigilant against emerging social challenges such as cyber fraud and drug abuse.
Chairing the 11th Governing Council Meeting of NITI Aayog in New Delhi, as per news agency JKNS, Prime Minister also cautioned States about the possible impact of El Niño conditions and called for intensified efforts towards water conservation and sustainable resource management.
Modi observed that while several major economies across the world are facing uncertainty and economic challenges, India’s growth story continues to inspire the global community.
He stressed the need to strengthen India’s journey towards self-reliance and encouraged States to adopt global best practices, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy and next-generation manufacturing.
Referring to India’s recently concluded trade agreements with various countries, the Prime Minister asked States to create opportunities for youth and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), while equipping stakeholders to fully utilise the benefits arising from these agreements.
He also urged States to actively attract investments from partner nations and improve ease of doing business through transparent governance and better infrastructure.
Highlighting the growing role of technology, Modi said Artificial Intelligence should be viewed as an opportunity and called for enhanced skill development programmes to prepare citizens for the future economy.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to tackle social challenges, including cybercrime and drug abuse, through preventive measures, awareness campaigns and effective governance mechanisms.
Underscoring the importance of cooperative federalism, Modi said the Centre and States must work together to achieve the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” and ensure that development reaches every district, block and village.
He described India’s 70 crore youth as the country’s greatest asset and urged States to convert the nation’s demographic dividend into a development dividend.
The day-long meeting witnessed participation from all 28 States and five Union Territories, marking the first time that chief ministers of all States attended the annual Governing Council meeting.
According to the statement, several Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors congratulated Prime Minister Modi on completing 12 years in office and expressed support for the Centre’s efforts to strengthen India’s resilience amid global geopolitical and economic challenges.
NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri, while briefing the media, said Prime Minister emphasized that India cannot become a developed nation unless all States achieve higher levels of development.
Modi also encouraged States to estimate Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth at the district level and focus on the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative to strengthen exports and local economic development.
The Prime Minister described the discussions as constructive and reflective of the aspirations, challenges and best practices emerging from different regions of the country. (JKNS)
