PM Modi Applauds Journalist Palki Sharma's Oxford Union Speech On India's Progress

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended journalist Palki Sharma Upadhyay for her speech at the Oxford Union, where she argued in favor of India's progress under his leadership. Sharma clarified on social media that the speech was from over a year ago but expressed her gratitude for its resonance.

PM Modi responded, praising the insights Sharma provided into India's transformations. Sharma, an expert in foreign affairs and Managing Editor at Firstpost, began her speech by quoting the White House's National Security Communications Advisor, John Kirby, from June 2023, urging people to visit New Delhi to witness India's progress firsthand.

She highlighted three key developments in India: financial inclusion, internet and mobile penetration, and increased airport traffic. Sharma contrasted the India of the past, which she described as self-doubting and influenced by global opinions, with today's confident India, seen as a leader by the world.

Describing India as a "soft-power giant," Sharma mentioned the country's strong stance against terrorism post the Pulwama attack, highlighting the IAF's strikes in Balakot. She emphasized India's new approach of empowering people, not just economically but also socially.

Sharma also mentioned Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister, James Marape, touching PM Modi's feet as a gesture of gratitude for India's vaccine donations. She noted the progress in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019.

In her closing remarks, Sharma said the importance of public approval in judging a country's path, asserting that as long as democracy and the Constitution are respected, each country's path should be judged on its own merits. She received applause from the audience for her insightful address.