India’s Youth Spiritually and Intellectually Awakened; IIT Mandi’s ‘Kulhad Economy’ Reflects True Essence of Make in India: Anurag Thakur.
Shimla:
In a sharp political attack and an inspiring address to youth, former Union Minister and BJP MP from Hamirpur, Anurag Singh Thakur visited Mandi today, where he criticized Congress MP Rahul Gandhi for his recent remarks made in Colombia about Indian democracy, while also speaking extensively on national development, indigenous innovation, and youth empowerment during his address at IIT Mandi.
Speaking at a student interaction event focused on the ‘Kulhad Economy’—a theme promoted by IIT Mandi—Thakur praised the initiative as a perfect representation of the Make in India vision blended with the earthy essence of Himachal Pradesh. He said, “The Kulhad Economy represents a financially inclusive India where the bottom of the economic pyramid becomes a part of the national growth story. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision is the same—empowering the grassroots.”
Anurag Thakur Slams Rahul Gandhi
In response to Rahul Gandhi’s controversial statements made abroad, alleging a threat to democracy in India and criticising the RSS, Thakur said, “Rahul Gandhi has made it a habit to oppose India on foreign soil. During critical operations like Sindoor and the air strikes, he praised Pakistan from within India. What compels him to consistently oppose his own country?”
He added that such actions have led the Congress party to suffer defeats in 90 elections, and predicted further setbacks in upcoming elections like Bihar 2025. “His Pakistan love and misplaced narratives have only damaged Congress’ credibility,” Thakur asserted.
‘Kulhad Economy’ and India’s Tech Growth
Returning to the student dialogue, Thakur lauded IIT Mandi for its unique fusion of academic excellence and cultural grounding. He noted, “IIT Mandi’s spiritual and intellectual atmosphere mirrors our Sanatan tradition, where education is incomplete without values. Students today are more culturally and intellectually awake than ever before.”
He emphasized the significance of Himachal Pradesh’s contribution to India’s science and defence sectors, calling the Himalayas a “timeless sentinel standing guard for the nation.”
India’s Journey to a Developed Nation
Highlighting India’s transformation over the past decade, Thakur said, “From 2014 to 2025, historic changes have laid the foundation for a developed India by 2047. Nearly 2,000 obsolete laws have been removed, simplifying the path to business and governance reform.” He credited programs like Jan Dhan Yojana, under which over 56 crore bank accounts have been opened, for ushering in financial inclusion.
Strong Message to Pakistan
On national security, Thakur declared, “India has responded firmly to Pakistan’s proxy war through Operation Sindoor. Today, Pakistan must think a hundred times before attempting to export terrorism to our soil.”
He asserted that India has now emerged as a manufacturing powerhouse thanks to Make in India, Startup India, and MSME support, making it the fourth-largest economy in the world.
Final Words to the Youth
Concluding his address, Thakur urged the students to actively contribute to India’s progress. “Our youth are key to India becoming a developed nation by 2047. Once they set a goal, they don’t stop until they achieve it,” he said.
The event was attended by local BJP leaders including Balh MLA Inder Singh Gandhi, Mandi MC Mayor Virender Bhatt, and Raja Singh Malhotra, reflecting strong local support for Thakur’s vision and statements.
