Focus on expansion of trade, commerce: Modi tells IFS trainees

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday exhorted trainee diplomats to reflect the essence of India's image and self-esteem, and focus on expansion of trade and commerce, a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office said.

Modi told the 29 officer trainees of the Indian Foreign Service, who called on him at his 7, Race Course residence, that the focus should be on expansion of trade and commerce and technology transfer.

"The prime minister said India needs to concentrate on 'zero-defect manufacturing' and 'packaging and presentation', to boost its exports," the statement said.

Modi said: "Indian herbal medicines are among the best in the world, but are lagging behind Chinese products due to poor packaging."

"He also contended that the huge diversity and range of Indian handicrafts has not been presented properly to the world," the statement said.

Modi congratulated the trainees from the 2012 batch on their selection as representatives of India to the world, and asked them to be well-acquainted with India's history, and motivate the Indian diaspora to take pride in India.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, principal secretary to the prime minister Nripendra Misra, and Foreign Secretary Sujatha Singh were present at the interaction.