Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially released his first podcast today, Friday, following considerable anticipation. Hosted by Nikhil Kamath, the co-founder of Zerodha, the podcast has generated significant buzz since the release of its trailer.

In the podcast, PM Modi clarified the common misconception surrounding the phrase "minimum government, maximum governance." He explained that his vision focuses on increasing the speed of work in government departments, not necessarily reducing staff or ministers. He highlighted initiatives like the creation of ministries for skill development, cooperatives, and fisheries to streamline governance.

“We took away 40,000 compliances to increase the speed of work in different departments,” PM Modi explained. “I made different ministries... to ensure faster work.” He also noted that 1,500 old laws had been abolished and laws criminalising certain actions had been changed.

Technological progress and India's global role

Speaking on India’s technological advancements, PM Modi showcased the country’s success in democratising technology. He pointed out how, with just a mobile phone, India can transfer money to 100 million farmers or provide subsidies to 13 crore people in a matter of seconds.

“We have made an innovation commission and innovation fund,” he added, emphasizing that India had taught the world how to leverage technology.

India’s changing global perception

Reflecting on India's changing global status, PM Modi recalled his 2005 statement, “One day the world would stand in line for an Indian visa.” He noted that, 20 years later, India's influence on the world stage had grown significantly.

Recalling a recent visit to Kuwait, PM Modi shared a conversation with a labourer who asked about an international airport in his district. “It is this aspiration that will make India Viksit in 2047,” he remarked.

India’s position on global conflicts

When discussing global conflicts, PM Modi emphasized that India was not neutral in its approach, but always in favour of peace. He recalled advising countries involved in the Ukraine crisis, including Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Palestine, and Israel, reinforcing India’s global credibility.

PM Modi mentioned how the country had worked together to evacuate citizens and help neighbours during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring India’s strong sense of solidarity and support for its people abroad.