Rahul Gandhi Critiques Make in India, Advocates for Energy and Mobility Revolution

Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Make in India initiative, claiming it has not succeeded. He proposed an alternative vision that includes increasing the involvement of Dalits, tribals, and OBCs. Gandhi emphasised the importance of ensuring that the energy and mobility revolution does not fall into Chinese hands. He acknowledged that both Congress-led UPA and BJP-led NDA governments have struggled with unemployment issues.

Gandhi highlighted the need for a new approach to tackle unemployment, suggesting that every government since 1990 has managed consumption well but failed in production. He stated, "What we have done is that we have handed over the organisation of production to the Chinese." Gandhi expressed concern about rising social tensions due to unemployment in India.

Focus on Youth and Technology

Addressing the youth, Gandhi noted India's past rapid growth but acknowledged its current slower pace. He pointed out that neither the UPA nor the NDA has provided clear solutions for unemployment. Gandhi mentioned that Make in India was a good concept but ultimately failed. He said, "I am not even blaming the prime minister because it would not be fair to say that the prime minister did not try."

Gandhi emphasised a mobility revolution is underway, transitioning from internal combustion engines to electric motors and from petrol to batteries. He recalled how the Congress government capitalised on the computer revolution by focusing on software development. "Today you can see the results," he remarked.

Technological Advancements and Challenges

Gandhi identified four key technologies driving change in mobility: electric motors, batteries, optics, and AI applications. He stressed that AI relies on data, which is largely controlled by US companies like Google and Facebook. He warned that China is a decade ahead in this technological revolution.

He suggested an INDIA bloc government would focus on building capabilities in critical technology areas. Gandhi also advocated for an open banking system accessible to small businesses. He criticised India's reliance on Chinese imports like motors and batteries, stating it poses a national security risk.

Addressing Social Inequality

Gandhi shared findings from a Caste Census conducted by a Congress government in Telangana, revealing nearly 90% of its population comprises Dalits, Adivasis, Backward Classes, or minorities. He estimated India's OBC population at around 50%. Gandhi called for increased participation of these groups in governance and wealth distribution.

He argued for conducting a caste census nationwide to understand the socio-economic standing of Dalits, Adivasis, OBCs, and minorities. Using AI could help ensure fair wealth distribution among these groups. Gandhi asserted that addressing production and participation simultaneously would create robust growth for India.

Foreign Policy Critique

Gandhi criticised India's foreign policy approach, referencing External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's trips to the US before President Donald Trump's inauguration. He suggested a strong production system would attract foreign leaders to India instead of seeking invitations abroad.

He claimed China's presence on Indian soil is due to Make in India's failure and India's reluctance to produce domestically. Gandhi expressed concern about India potentially ceding another revolution to China.

Gandhi concluded by asserting that an INDIA government would realign education, enlist experts, spread finance widely, and adjust trade and foreign policies. This approach aims to address job crises and lack of opportunities for 90% of Indians while boosting production for a brighter future.