India’s Finance Minister lauds decentralization
India’s Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, asserted that the reforms implemented since 2014 have facilitated the decentralisation of planning in the country. She conveyed this message during a meeting with 11 Executive Directors (EDs) of the World Bank Group, representing 95 countries, who were visiting India. The EDs commended India’s rapid development across various sectors, driven by transformational reforms and increased private sector participation in the country’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
The visiting EDs were impressed by India’s achievements, particularly in digital technology and startups, as well as the effective delivery of public goods such as water, electricity, and road infrastructure. They praised India’s vision of inclusive growth, with a strong focus on empowering communities to create opportunities for the underprivileged.
The Finance Minister highlighted the significant role India is playing in global forums, including the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable and MDB Reforms. She also mentioned India’s proactive approach in regulating cryptocurrencies and developing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). Additionally, she expressed India’s willingness to share its development experiences and extend support to other countries seeking to benefit from India’s knowledge.
The EDs specifically appreciated efforts like the Goods and Services Tax (GST), NariShakti (Women Empowerment), and FASTag (electronic toll collection system), which align with India’s vision of rapid progress.
Overall, the meeting showcased India’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth through progressive reforms and its readiness to collaborate globally on financial and developmental matters.
Re-reported from the article originally published in Republic TV