Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday took an apparent dig at Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi while highlighting the achievements of India’s young innovators ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. Referring to the team behind Skyroot Aerospace, Modi said the average age of its members was just 28 years and remarked that he was “not talking about some 56-year-old youth.” The comment was widely seen as a veiled reference to Rahul Gandhi as the Prime Minister praised young entrepreneurs for taking India’s flag into space through innovation and determination.
Speaking to reporters before Parliament convened, Modi said discussions in the House should be based on facts and logic rather than disruption. He appealed to all political parties and Members of Parliament to ensure the smooth functioning of the Monsoon Session, adding that every voice should have an opportunity to be heard. Comparing the rainy season with the Monsoon Session, the Prime Minister expressed hope that both would prove productive and contribute to the nation’s progress and welfare.
The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s recent achievements in the space sector, congratulating Skyroot Aerospace on the successful Vikram-1 mission, India’s first privately developed orbital-class rocket to reach orbit. He further said that despite global challenges, including the ongoing conflict in West Asia affecting energy markets, India’s economy had recorded a 7.7 percent growth rate. Modi urged all MPs to participate wholeheartedly in the session and work towards constructive discussions in the interest of the country.
