PM Modi Applauds Youth-Driven Tech Innovation, Marks 11 Years of Digital India Progress

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised India’s youth for their leading role in technological innovation, highlighting how their contributions are propelling the nation toward greater self-reliance and establishing India as a global tech powerhouse.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, PM Modi wrote, “Powered by the youth of India, we are making remarkable progress in innovation and application of technology. It is also strengthening our efforts to become self-reliant and a global tech powerhouse.”

Reflecting on the journey over the past 11 years, he said the Digital India initiative has transformed service delivery, improved transparency, and empowered even the poorest segments of society through the power of technology.

Responding to posts by MyGovIndia, the Prime Minister emphasized that Digital India has not only bridged digital divides but also unlocked new opportunities for citizens across the country. “Leveraging the power of technology has brought innumerable benefits for people,” he noted.

As the government celebrates 11 years of its administration, it has highlighted key achievements of the Digital India programme, describing it as a silent digital revolution that began over a decade ago—reshaping governance, connectivity, and inclusive growth.

According to an official statement, “Under PM Modi’s visionary leadership, the Digital India initiative has turned technology into a tool for empowerment — bridging gaps, unlocking opportunities, and making governance more accessible and transparent.”

The transformation is evident across sectors — from expanding internet access in rural areas to leading the world in real-time digital payments. The government noted that the impact goes beyond statistics; it’s about empowering people and building lasting progress.

The MyGovIndia platform added, “From digital deserts to a data-driven democracy — India’s tech journey over the last 11 years is nothing short of revolutionary.” It emphasized that India has become a center of digital innovation and governance rooted in technological trust.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also highlighted the scale of this transformation. In a post on X, she stated that Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) have grown more than 90 times in a decade — from ?7,368 crore in 2013–14 to ?6.83 lakh crore in 2024–25 — ensuring that public funds reach their intended beneficiaries efficiently.

She further pointed out that India now leads the world in real-time digital payments, with over ?260 lakh crore in transactions processed during 2024–25 alone.

“India has transformed into a hub of digital innovation, tech-led governance, and global trust. From manufacturing to space tech, from digital payments to rural connectivity — the change is visible, impactful, and lasting,” Sitharaman said.

As the nation steps into its next phase of development, the government reiterated its commitment to building a “tech-first Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), where technology fuels inclusive growth, efficient governance, and global leadership.

With inputs from IANS