The Prime Minister also stressed on the Clean India campaign saying that more tourists would come if the country was cleaner.
He also asked the Indian diaspora to extend their support to the campaign and said they can contribute significantly in developing the villages they come from.
“I request you to contribute. God has given you so much.” Modi said while “some people” dream of doing only big things he was interested in doing “small things” like building toilets and ensuring cleanliness.
“Illness is a big burden on the poor. There is no greater service to the poor than focussing on cleanliness,” he said adding “I see no reason why India should stay behind. It is decided we will move ahead.”
Modi congratulated and complimented the Indian Australian community for working hard and making their “karmbhoomi” proud. He named prominent Indian-Australians who had excelled for Australia in sports and academics.
Talking about the strength of democracy, he said “Look at the strength of democracy. Would I have been here if it weren't for democracy? The power of this democracy brought me here.”
The Prime Minister mentioned the work his Government was doing and the new policies and schemes his Government had launched including the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana and the Make in India initiative.
Speaking about Jan Dhan scheme, he said 70 million bank accounts have been opened in the last 10 weeks under the scheme and a total of Rs 5,000 crore has been deposited by the account holders.
He also spoke of the need to improve access to clean water, electricity and invited the Indian-Australian community to give back to the Motherland in whatever way they could. He spoke of his vision for skill development, and India meeting the skilled manpower requirement of the whole world.
Modi also complimented Australia for its concept of dignity of labour. “I have always admired the concept of dignity of labour in Australia. Here, a research scientist can also drive a cab.”
“Cleaning up or removing litter. This is not a job that lacks dignity...this is a job that must be respected,” he said.
He also announced a Sydney Cultural Center would be established by India and it will be made functional by February 2015.
Here we are giving you live updates of Modi's speech:
