India should take on leading role globally: PM to mission heads

The 4-day Heads of Mission conference is seeing participation from 117 High Commissioners and Ambassadors

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said India should be positioned in such a way that it takes a leadership role in the current global environment.
 
“The present global environment represents a rare opportunity, when the world is keen to embrace India, and India is moving forward with confidence," Modi said here today addressing heads of Indian missions who have all gathered here for an annual meeting.
 
He told them it is imperative that India assumes a leading role instead of just being a “balancing force.” Urging them to shed old mindsets, the Prime Minister said they should be quick to adapt to changing global situations.

 

The four-day Heads of Mission conference is seeing participation from around 117 High Commissioners and Ambassadors.
 
Underscoring the role of mission heads in projecting India in front of the world, Modi defined them as “shining vibrant representatives” of Indian heritage.  He exhorted them to work “ceaselessly” and with a “clear mind” on the country’s development agenda and advance India’s interests abroad.
 
On the challenge of climate change, the Prime Minister said protecting the environment is part of India's cultural heritage, and therefore, India must take the lead in countering this challenge, and also work towards a change in global attitudes towards the challenges of climate change. He said Indian culture was replete with illustrations which indicated "prakriti-prem" (love for nature).

 
The Prime Minister said the NITI Aayog has recognized the Indian diaspora as a great strength of our nation, and Heads of Missions must come up with innovative ways, in which to positively build upon this strength.