India emerging as major player on global platform: Ami Behra

Indian-American Congressman Ami Behra on Wednesday said the relationship between New Delhi and Washington is moving in a positive direction courtesy Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision and said the entrepreneurs of both sides investing in each other's nation is a testament to the fact.

Behra, who was commenting on Prime Minister Modi's address to the US-India Business Council in Washington, said New Delhi is emerging as a major player on global platform, adding having an ally with shared values of democracy is always good.

Behra told ANI that India has started engaging more around the world, whether it is the Middle East or Africa.

"The United States recognizes India as a vital and strategic partner in maintaining peace in the world," he added.

Behra appreciated Prime Minister Modi's efforts with regard to the new Indian companies investing more frequently in the United States and said the relationship is definitely moving in a positive direction.

"I think Prime Minister Modi, what he said this evening, is speaking directly to the Indian-American community to stand up and help continue to move the relationship forward between the United States and India forward. And we see the community is starting to get back, you see the U.S. and Indian-American entrepreneurs investing in India and vice-versa," he added.

Behra further said that things look very different at the moment than what they were even four years ago, adding that people now feel very optimistic on the business side.

Addressing the US-India Business Council in Washington earlier, Prime Minister Modi said India is poised to contribute as new engine of global growth.

He said the world needs a new engine of growth and a larger Indian economy has multiple benefits for the globe.

Prime Minister Modi said India has emerged as one of the fastest growing economies in the world.

He urged the American businessmen to invest in India and set-up efficient manufacturing units.

The Prime Minister said that his government has taken several steps to prevent corruption and facilitate the ease of doing business in India.

Asserting that his government is committed to continue opening up the defence sector, Prime Minister Modi said his government has taken major steps to ensure greater accountability in banking sector.

He said many social security schemes, including accident insurance scheme, life insurance scheme and Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, have been introduced for the betterment of people.