Trend of running the country from Delhi should be stopped: Modi

Strongly advocating the use of technology for the purpose of trade, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi on Thursday said fashion of running the country from New Delhi has to be stopped.

Addressing the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), Modi said, "Traders should use technology to make it big. People even in rural areas are now looking for branded stuff. Small businessmen can do big business by setting up virtual units, and take a leap. They can improve the delivery systems and go for online marketing. They can set up virtual malls."

He also said that the fashion of running the country from New Delhi should be stopped and added that we should trust every state as they have their own strengths.

"Our children have spread information technology all across the globe. We have to accept science and technology to improve our businesses," he added.

He asserted that a small trader can flourish only when the purchasing power of the common man improves and added that for this, manufacturing activities will have to be given a push.

"The government has to take strong measures to improve manufacturing. There is, thus, a chain which is set up," he said.

"We have to convert challenges into opportunities. Do not be afraid of new challenges. Adopt technology and create virtual malls in your shops. Now, even people in smallest towns are looking for branded goods. Use technology to cater to that. If necessary do workshop to learn the way out, but do not run away," he added.

He asserted that there is a need for law that states a law will only be made after you have abolished ten old laws.

"There is a web of laws in this country. I want you all to give us the power so that we can remove a law every week," he added.

Criticizing the External Affairs Ministry for being running on an old methodology, Modi said, "Today, the job of the External Affairs Ministry is to look after trade and commerce.