VP Dhankhar Cautions Against Excessive Politics in Development Matters

GG News Bureau
Silvassa, 21st Sept. Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, during a public function at Dokmardi Auditorium, Silvassa, urged citizens and political leaders not to let politics overshadow national development. He said that excessive political maneuvering should not come at the expense of nationalism and progress. “Politics cannot be above the nation. There should be no politics in matters of development,” he said.

Dhankhar highlighted the importance of representing India with dignity on international platforms. “Whenever we go outside the country, we are its ambassadors. Speaking ill of India abroad and aligning with its enemies is unacceptable,” he stressed, referring to the growing concern over individuals tarnishing the country’s image internationally.

Condemning the trend of “anti-national tourism,” Dhankhar compared it to the flourishing medical and safari tourism. He stated, “If we go abroad and speak ill of our country, this behavior undermines our collective identity.”

Citing the exemplary conduct of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who upheld India’s pride on global platforms even when in opposition, Dhankhar reiterated, “Atalji’s actions were guided by one goal—‘My India is great, my India, my nationalism.'”

The Vice-President also spoke about the importance of reducing reliance on foreign goods, lamenting the import of items that can be produced domestically. “Why are we importing goods like furniture, bottles, kites, and even cotton when they can be made in India?” Dhankhar questioned, adding that such practices deplete foreign exchange, cut domestic tax revenues, and rob Indian entrepreneurs of opportunities.

Reflecting on India’s remarkable rise in equality and social mobility, Dhankhar highlighted the nation’s success stories, including Prime Minister Modi, a former tea seller, and the country’s first tribal woman President. He also praised the agricultural sector’s growth and the government’s farmer-centric policies, noting, “Today, 10 crore farmers receive payments directly, thrice a year.”

Praful Patel, Administrator of Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, and Lakshadweep, MP Kalaben Mohanbhai Delkar, and other dignitaries attended the event.