'Make in India' launch: Important to talk of 'Link West' along with 'Look East', says PM Modi

On the launch of the much touted, NDA Government's "Make in India" initiative today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "When we talk of a 'Look East' policy, we must also talk about 'Link West'.

"The world is looking at Asia. I do not have to waste time to invite, I need to give the address. I do not only talk about good governance, I talk about effective governance," said Prime Minister Modi.

Overwhelmed by the success of India's first inter-planetary mission Mars Orbiter Mission affectionately called "MOM", Prime Minister Modi said, "Nobody can question the talent of our people, especially after yesterday.

"When we talk of a "Look East" policy, we must also talk about "Link West". There is a new era of economic growth that is in Asia, and we have to see how to make it India's. We have to move towards next-gen infrastructure. Not only do we need highways, but also i-ways (information ways)," he added.

"This is your country, the happiness of succeeding here and then taking it abroad has its own taste and good feeling. I want Indian companies to be multinational ones. But they should make the country stronger," said Prime Minister Modi.

"It is my view that investments in the states lead to nation's development. This is the government dedicated to growth. This is not a political agenda but an article of faith. Whether state or central government; we will proactively take up the role of being a facilitator of exports," he concluded.

During his Independence Day speech on August 15, Prime Minister Modi had appealed to the people the world over to come and make in India and sell their products in any country of the world.

The "Make in India" initiative will act as a first reference point for guiding foreign investors on all aspects of regulatory and policy issues and assist them in obtaining regulatory clearances.

The Centre has already allowed 100 per cent Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under the automatic route in construction, operation and maintenance in rail infrastructure projects and increased FDI in defence from 26 to 49 per cent.

The initiative is expected to focus on job creation and skill enhancement in 25 key sectors such as automobiles, chemicals, IT, pharmaceuticals, textiles and tourism and hospitality.

It will also be aimed at identifying select domestic companies having leadership in innovation and new technology for turning them into global leaders and promoting green and advanced manufacturing.

A dedicated cell has been created to answer queries from business entities through a newly created web portal www.makeinindia.com.