PM Modi Highlights Education, Health, Sports as Key Development Sectors

New Delhi, Mar 09 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called for accelerating efforts to connect the country’s education system with the real world economy, stressing the need to focus on emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and automation.

Speaking at a post-budget webinar in New Delhi, Modi said fulfilling the aspirations of citizens remains the central goal of the government. He identified education, skill development, health, tourism, sports and culture as key sectors that contribute to achieving that objective.

“The fulfilment of people’s aspirations is not merely a theme but the core resolution of this government,” the prime minister said while addressing stakeholders from multiple ministries and industry experts.

Focus on AI, automation and digital economy

Highlighting the importance of modern skills, Modi emphasised that India must further strengthen the link between academic institutions and economic activity.

He urged greater attention to advanced fields including artificial intelligence, automation, the digital economy and design-driven manufacturing to prepare the workforce for future opportunities.

The prime minister also underscored the significance of the STEM disciplines in shaping innovation and economic growth.

Modi noted with satisfaction that more young women are showing interest in STEM education and stressed the need to create equal opportunities so that no girl is left behind in the country’s technological progress.

Expanding research and innovation ecosystem

Calling for stronger research infrastructure, the prime minister said young researchers should be given greater opportunities to develop new ideas and technological solutions.

He emphasised the importance of building a vibrant research ecosystem that supports innovation and encourages the next generation of scientists and engineers.

Strengthening healthcare and care economy

Modi also spoke about improvements in the health sector, highlighting initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, which has expanded access to medical services in rural areas through wellness centres and health facilities.

He pointed out that India is working toward a vision of preventive and holistic healthcare while expanding infrastructure, including the establishment of new medical colleges in several districts.

Referring to the growing “care economy,” the prime minister said the increasing elderly population will drive demand for trained caregivers, urging the development of new training models to meet this requirement.

Youth power and sports development

The prime minister also highlighted the role of sports in national development, stating that the energy of young people becomes a national strength when supported by health, discipline and confidence.

He noted that initiatives such as Khelo India have revitalised the country’s sports ecosystem while boosting infrastructure and encouraging participation among youth.

According to Modi, sustained investment in education, healthcare and sports will continue to shape India’s long-term development and help translate the aspirations of its citizens into tangible progress.