Profits Earned Through Ethical Means Are Essential for National Wealth Creation, Says Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that the government under Narendra Modi views entrepreneurs as wealth creators. She explained that profits made ethically by these individuals contribute to development goals. "Wealth creation in India has never been a taboo. We promoted wealth creation," she remarked during the National Commemorative Seminar on 60 years of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Integral Humanism Lectures.

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Integral Humanism and Economic Growth

Sitharaman highlighted that genuine ethical practices in profit-making lead to national wealth creation. This wealth, she noted, enhances dignity of labour, education, and skills, boosting the nation's spirit. She emphasised that economic policies under leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi reflect Integral Humanism principles, focusing on uplifting the poorest while maintaining their dignity.

Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, a founding member of Jan Sangh, which evolved into the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1980, advocated for considering the lowest strata in planning. Sitharaman reiterated this vision, stressing that policies should aim to uplift those at the bottom of the social ladder.

Antyodaya Theory and National Development

The Finance Minister mentioned that the government's approach aligns with Upadhyaya's Antyodaya theory. This involves ensuring everyone's upliftment from poverty, providing employment, and access to basic needs. Such measures enhance living standards and increase access to the country's productive capacities, thereby boosting production levels.

She also pointed out that national defence is a priority as per Upadhyaya's vision. Since 2014, Modi has focused on self-reliance in defence production. "That's what we have done," she said, referring to Operation Sindoor as an example of this commitment.

Sitharaman concluded by stating that the government's efforts are contrary to previous administrations that claimed insufficient funds for defence procurement. The emphasis on Aatmanirbharta reflects a shift towards self-sufficiency in defence capabilities.

With inputs from PTI