NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s growth potential, labeling it “attractive” during his address at the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show – 2025 (UPITS-2025) held in Greater Noida. He emphasized the importance of becoming “self-reliant” amid ongoing global trade tensions, promoting the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives.
Modi noted that despite international disruptions, India continues to explore new avenues for growth. “Our resolve and mantra is Atmanirbhar Bharat. Nothing can be more helpless than being dependent on others. The more a country stays dependent on others, the more its growth is compromised,” he remarked.
The Prime Minister highlighted efforts to cultivate domestic manufacturing, stating that the government is focusing on production from “chips to ships.” He called for increased investment in research and innovation to bolster India’s self-reliance. “Every product that can be made in India should be made here,” he insisted.
Modi announced that production of the AK-203 rifles will commence soon in Uttar Pradesh, developed in collaboration with Russia. He emphasized the aim of establishing a dynamic defense sector where all components are manufactured within India.
He also noted the advancements in the fintech sector, describing a “platform for all, progress for all” through critical initiatives like UPI and Aadhar. “Its impact is evident everywhere, whether shopping in a mall or at a tea stall,” he added.
On the 11th anniversary of the ‘Make in India’ initiative launched in 2014, Modi praised Uttar Pradesh’s vital role in the manufacturing landscape, indicating that 55% of India’s mobile phones are produced in the state. “UP will fortify India’s self-reliance in the semiconductor sector,” he stated.
Inaugurating the trade show, Modi highlighted the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal’s success, noting that around 2.5 million sellers and service providers, including small traders, are now able to supply to the government, a feat not possible in earlier administrations. He expressed optimism towards achieving India’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.
The Prime Minister also expressed satisfaction with the participation of over 2,250 exhibitors at the trade show, noting that Russia is this year’s partner country, which strengthens their longstanding partnership.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also spoke at the event, celebrating the introduction of “next-generation” GST reforms, describing them as a “Diwali gift” for various segments of society. “This has created a new kind of liveliness in the markets,” Adityanath noted, indicating a resurgence for the state’s industrial sector.
