New Delhi: On the eve of the Karnataka Assembly elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi claimed that Indians in the "Azadi Ka Amrit Kaal" aim to make their "beloved country" a developed nation and the poll-bound state is "keen to lead the movement". In a video message and an open letter to Kannadigas on Tuesday, the Prime Minister made a strong pitch for the BJP to retain power in the southern state.
Reaching out, Mr Modi said the affection he has received in the state over the last few days has been unparalleled and it has strengthened his resolve to make Karnataka number one across all sectors.
"The dream of every citizen of Karnataka is my dream. Your resolve is my resolve. When we come together and set our minds to a goal, no force in the world can stop us," he said.
Appealing to Kannadigas to exercise their franchise to "make Karnataka the Number 1 state", the PM asserted that while India is the world's fifth-largest economy, the government’s "next aim is to reach the top three," which is "possible only when Karnataka rapidly grows to become a $1 trillion economy."
"In our Azadi Ka Amrit Kaal, we Indians have aimed to make our beloved country a developed nation. Karnataka is keen to lead the movement to realise this vision. India is the world's fifth-largest economy. Our next goal is to reach the top three. This is possible only when Karnataka rapidly grows to become a $1 trillion economy. You have witnessed the work of the 'double engine' BJP government over the last 3.5 years. Our decisive, focused and futuristic policies are imparting momentum to the growth of Karnataka's economy," said the PM.
Claming that the BJP wants to "make Karnataka the Number 1" in investment, industry innovation, education, employment and entrepreneurship," the PM said the BJP is also committed to "making Karnataka the Number 1 in agriculture".
"The decisions taken by the double engine government to boost connectivity, ease of living and ease of doing business have built a strong foundation for Karnataka to become India's Number 1 state," said the PM.
The BJP’s "star campaigner", who addressed 19 public rallies, also noted that the cultural heritage of Karnataka has "always inspired our nation as well as me personally".
"Jagajyothi Basaveshwara, Nadaprabhu Kempegowda, Shri Kanakadasa, Onake Obavva -- this land has given us many such greats. Guided by their legacy, the BJP is working to build a modern Karnataka that will make them proud… The BJP government will continue to work to create next-gen urban infrastructure across Karnataka, modernise transport, raise the quality of life in rural and urban areas and create new opportunities for women and youth," said the PM.
