Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that prominent economist and financial firms worldwide have acknowledged the initiatives launched by the Indian government that have helped in lifting 25 crore people out of poverty over the past 8-9 years.

During his public address in Visakhapatnam, he accused the Congress of neglecting the development of the nation’s rich cultural heritage since independence.

The defence minister also alleged that Congress failed to construct roads along the India-China border due to fear of Chinese incursions.

He emphasised the current government’s commitment to rapidly enhancing infrastructure along the borders, ensuring a robust response to any potential threats.

Singh highlighted the significant shift in India’s defence production, noting that the country has produced over Rs 1 lakh crore worth of defence material in the current year alone.

He further said that in the coming years, the influence of parties like Congress and SP would wane, and people will eventually forget them post 2024 elections.

(Inputs: Ani)