Addressing a gathering comprising professionals, business leaders, senior citizens, women, youth and BJP leaders during his visit to the islands, Rijiju emphasized the importance of direct interaction between policymakers and society. He noted that while digital communication has become widespread, face-to-face engagement remains essential for understanding local concerns and strengthening public participation.
Speaking about the transformation of remote regions, Rijiju said areas such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Northeast and border regions were once viewed as distant from the country's mainstream development process. According to him, improved transportation, internet connectivity and digital infrastructure have significantly changed that perception over the past decade.
The minister highlighted initiatives such as Jan Dhan bank accounts, Aadhaar integration and digital payment systems, stating that these reforms have improved financial inclusion and enabled welfare benefits to reach beneficiaries directly.
Referring to India's economic progress, Rijiju said the country has emerged as one of the world's fastest-growing major economies and is working towards the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, the centenary year of India's independence.
He also discussed global economic and geopolitical challenges, including developments in West Asia and their impact on energy markets. According to him, the government has taken measures to reduce the burden of such challenges on ordinary citizens.
During his address, Rijiju criticized opposition parties, particularly the Congress, alleging that previous governments lacked a clear long-term development vision and did not adequately integrate remote regions into the national growth framework.
A significant portion of the minister's speech focused on the proposed Great Nicobar development project. Rijiju strongly defended the initiative, describing it as a strategic project aimed at strengthening national security, boosting economic activity and creating future opportunities for the islands.
He stated that the project had undergone extensive consultations and scientific assessments and argued that environmental conservation and development can coexist when supported by appropriate safeguards and responsible planning.
The minister also criticized groups opposing the project, alleging that some were attempting to obstruct development through misleading narratives. He maintained that the government's objective is to balance environmental protection with economic growth.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the islands, Rijiju said Andaman and Nicobar possesses immense potential due to its biodiversity, marine resources and location in the Bay of Bengal. He expressed confidence that the islands could emerge as a globally recognised destination for tourism, investment and sustainable development.
Emphasizing responsible tourism, he called for efforts to attract high-value visitors while preserving the islands' ecological balance and natural beauty. He also urged local residents and businesses to contribute towards environmental protection and cleanliness.
Concluding his address, Rijiju appealed to intellectuals, professionals, community leaders, women, youth and senior citizens to actively participate in the development journey of the islands, stating that the goal is to build a developed India and a developed Andaman and Nicobar for future generations.
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