NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the extensively redeveloped International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) complex, christened Bharat Mandapam.
The grand inauguration took place in the presence of Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and several other ministers, with PM Modi unveiling the new complex’s name through an innovative drone unveiling.
During the inauguration, the Prime Minister expressed his awe at the redeveloped complex, describing it as a “wonderful sight” that will serve as a “gateway” to global opportunities.
Bigger than Sydney Opera House!
The New Indian’s @urvashikhona brings details as PM Narendra Modi inaugurates Bharat Mandapam, which will host G20 Summit in September#news #IECCComplex #bharatmandapam #PMModi #G20 #G20Summit #G20IndiaWATCH FULL: https://t.co/dBavFLweYH pic.twitter.com/DX1ChmQe3C
— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) July 26, 2023
Moreover, PM Modi laid out his ambitious blueprint for his government’s third term, announcing his vision for India to become the world’s third-largest economy, experiencing even faster growth than before.
With his government completing 10 years in office next May, he expressed his determination to seek a third term based on the plank of development and progress.
“Our target is to transform India into a developed nation within the next 25 years,” PM Modi declared, emphasising his commitment to eradicating poverty. He referred to a NITI Aayog report that highlighted the uplifting of 13.5 crore people out of poverty, underscoring the nation’s progress towards inclusive development.
‘भारत मंडपम’ का निर्माण 21वीं सदी में देश की आवश्यकताओं के अनुरूप किया गया है। इकोनॉमी से इकोलॉजी और ट्रेड से टेक्नोलॉजी तक के लिए यह एक बहुत बड़ा मंच बनने वाला है। pic.twitter.com/ll1mLXcop1
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2023
The inauguration ceremony witnessed a gathering of around 3,000 guests, including prominent Cabinet ministers, industry leaders, film personalities, and other distinguished figures.
Reflecting on India’s remarkable journey of development, PM Modi shared statistics indicating the nation’s economic rise over the years.
When his government assumed office in 2014, India ranked as the 10th largest economy globally. Presently, it stands in an impressive fifth position, trailing only behind the US, China, Germany, and Japan.
‘भारत मंडपम’ का निर्माण 21वीं सदी में देश की आवश्यकताओं के अनुरूप किया गया है। इकोनॉमी से इकोलॉजी और ट्रेड से टेक्नोलॉजी तक के लिए यह एक बहुत बड़ा मंच बनने वाला है। pic.twitter.com/ll1mLXcop1
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2023
Addressing the audience, PM Modi outlined his vision for India to ascend even higher on the global economic ladder during his third term. The upcoming general elections in May 2024 hold the prospect of paving the way for India to secure a position among the top three economies in the world.
Drawing attention to the significance of Bharat Mandapam, PM Modi highlighted its pivotal role as the host venue for the much-awaited G20 summit in September, under India’s presidency. He expressed confidence that the world would witness India’s rising stature as the newly constructed complex takes centre stage during the prestigious summit.
‘भारत मंडपम’ के रूप में हम भारतवासियों ने अपने लोकतंत्र को एक खूबसूरत उपहार दिया है। यहां होने वाले G-20 के आयोजन से दुनिया जल्द ही भारत के बढ़ते हुए कदमों को करीब से देखेगी। pic.twitter.com/IHSu61VV59
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2023
Prior to the inauguration, PM Modi performed a ‘pooja’ at the redeveloped complex, taking the opportunity to interact with the dedicated workers involved in its construction and extend his appreciation to them.
The revamped IECC complex, developed as a national project at a staggering cost of approximately ₹2,700 crores, boasts a sprawling campus area of around 123 acres. As it gears up to host the G20 summit, it will welcome heads of state from 20 nations, including global powerhouses such as the US, the UK, and China.
Recognised as India’s largest Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) destination, the IECC complex stands out among the world’s top exhibition and convention venues. With its modern facilities, including convention centres, exhibition halls, and amphitheatres, the complex is fully equipped to cater to diverse events and gatherings.
Of particular significance is the convention centre on level 3, boasting an impressive seating capacity of 7,000 and a magnificent amphitheatre accommodating 3,000 individuals.
The IECC complex serves as a platform for exhibitors and companies to engage with their target audience, fostering business growth and providing unparalleled networking opportunities.