Accra/ New Delhi, July 3 . Prime Minister Narendra Modi today described India as the “mother of democracy’’ and said that Indian democracy is not merely a system but a part of its fundamental values. He noted that India would soon be the third largest economy based on the foundations of a stable polity and good governance.
In his address at the Ghana Parliament, the PM said that in these times of global uncertainty, India’s democratic stability shines as a ray of hope and its rapid progress is a catalyst for global growth. “As the world’s largest democracy, India is a pillar of strength for the world.
“A strong India will contribute to a more stable and prosperous world. True democracy promotes discussion and debate. It unites people. It supports dignity and promotes human rights. Democratic values may take time to grow. But it is our responsibility to preserve and nurture them,’’ he said.
In his address interspersed with Vedic verses, the Prime Minister said that India is the fastest growing emerging economy and on the foundations of a stable polity and good governance, will soon be the third largest economy.
He said that from thousands of years ago, India has had centers like Vaishali. He quoted the Rig Veda, one of the world’s oldest scriptures, saying आनो भद्राः क्रतवो यन्तु विश्वत (meaning let good thoughts come to us from all directions). This openness to ideas, he said, is the core of democracy.
“India has over 2,500 political parties. I repeat, 2,500 political parties, 20 different parties governing different states, 22 official languages, thousands of dialects. This is also the reason that people who came to India have always been welcomed with open hearts. The same spirit helps Indians integrate easily wherever they go. Even in Ghana, they have blended into society, just like sugar in tea,’’ the Prime Minister said.
The Prime Minister said the world order created after the Second World War was changing fast. The revolution in technology, rise of the Global South and shifting demographics are contributing to its pace and scale. However, challenges like colonial rule that humanity has faced in the earlier centuries, persisted in different forms.
He said the world is also facing new and complex crises like climate change, pandemics, terrorism and cybersecurity. Institutions created in the last century were struggling to respond. The changing circumstances demand credible and effective reforms in global governance.
He said progress could not be possible without giving voice to the Global South. “We need more than slogans. We need action. That is why, during India’s G20 Presidency, we worked with the vision – One Earth, One Family, One Future.’’
Describing free and fair elections as the soul of any democracy, Prime Minister Modi said it was encouraging to see the Electoral Commissions of the two countries working closely together.
He said India had put emphasis on Africa’s rightful place at the global high table and Ghana’s commitment to democratic ideals and inclusive progress made it a beacon of inspiration for the entire African continent.
Prime Minister Modi also paid tributes to Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s founding President, and said his words continue to guide the shared journey of the two countries.
Pointing out that the histories of India and Ghana bear the scars of colonial rule, he said the spirit of the people had always remained free and fearless. “We draw strength and inspiration from our rich heritage. We take pride in our social, cultural and linguistic diversity. We built nations rooted in freedom, unity, and dignity. Our relationship knows no bounds. And with your permission, may I say, our friendship is sweeter than your famous ‘Sugarloaf’ pineapple. With President Mahama, we have decided to elevate our ties to a comprehensive partnership.’’
Reciting a Vedic shloka, he said that for India, philosophy is – Humanity First and this philosophy embodied India’s approach to the world. It guided our actions during the COVID pandemic. We shared vaccines and medicines with over 150 countries, including our friends in Ghana.
The Prime Minister said that over the past decade, India had seen a major transformation. The people of India had reposed faith in peace, security, and development. In 2024 they re-elected the same government for the third consecutive time, something that happened after more than six decades.
India already contributes nearly 16 percent to global growth. “Our demography is paying its dividend. India now has the world’s third largest start -up ecosystem. India is an innovation and technology hub where global companies want to converge.’’
He said Africa has been connected to many of India’s proudest moments in space. “When India’s Chandrayaan landed on the Moon’s South Pole, I was in Africa. And today, as an Indian astronaut conducts experiments onboard Space Station for the welfare of humanity — I am once again in Africa. This is no ordinary coincidence. It reflects the deep bond we share, our common aspirations, and our shared future. Our development is inclusive. Our growth touches the lives of every Indian.’’
He said people of India had resolved to make India a Developed Nation by 2047 when it celebrates 100 years of Independence. India remains a committed partner in Africa’s development journey. “We support Africa’s Development Framework, Agenda 2063, to secure a bright and sustainable future for its people,’’ he added.
From Ghana, the Prime Minister will travel to Trinidad and Tobago on a two-day visit on July 3-4. He will visit Argentina from July 4 to 5, before travelling to Brazil to attend the 17th BRICS summit followed by a state visit to Brasilia. On the final leg of his visit, the Prime Minister will travel to Namibia.
. RB .
