Journalist Palki Sharma Upadhyay received praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for her Oxford Union speech, in which she argued in favor of India’s advancement under his direction. Sharma acknowledged on social media that the speech was delivered more than a year ago, but she was still appreciative of its relevance.
In response, Prime Minister Modi praised Sharma’s observations regarding India’s changes. Foreign policy specialist and First Post managing editor Palki Sharma started her address by quoting National Security Communications Advisor of the White House John Kirby from June 2023, inviting people to travel to New Delhi to see India’s growth for themselves.
She outlined three significant advancements in India: greater airport traffic, internet and smartphone usage, and financial inclusion. Sharma drew a comparison between the confident India of today, regarded as a worldwide leader, and the India of the past, which she characterized as self-doubting and influenced by opinions from around the world.
Speaking of India as a “soft-power giant,” Sharma emphasized the IAF’s operations in Balakot and the nation’s resolute anti-terrorism posture in the wake of the Pulwama incident. She highlighted India’s new strategy of empowering people on both a social and economic level.
Sharma also added that in appreciation for India’s vaccination gifts, Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea touched Prime Minister Modi’s feet. She mentioned the advancements made in Jammu and Kashmir after Article 370 was repealed in August 2019.
In her concluding remarks, Sharma discussed the significance of public opinion in determining a nation’s course, stating that each nation’s course should be determined on its own merits as long as democracy and the Constitution are upheld. The audience applauded her for her thought-provoking speech.