India's economy accelerating with increasing COVID vaccination coverage, says PM Modi

As India breached the landmark of administering 100 crore COVID vaccine doses, the experts around the globe are positive about the country's economic growth, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday.

"Experts in India and abroad are very positive about India's economy. Today, not only record investment is coming to Indian companies but new employment opportunities are also being created for the youth...Positive activities are accelerating in every field with increasing coverage of the vaccine," the Prime Minister said during his address to the nation.

PM Modi noted that the agriculture sector kept India's economy "firmly in place" during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Today, food grains are being procured at a record level. The money is going directly into the bank account of the farmers," he said.

Talking about other sectors of the economy, the Prime Minister said that today, Indian companies aren't just getting record investments, but employment generation is also taking place. "Along with record investment in start-ups, record start-up unicorns are also being developed," he stated.

He reiterated his clarion call of "Vocal For Local" and appealed to people to buy 'Made in India' products during the festival season.

"Emphasis should be given to buying made in India products. This will be possible only with the efforts of everyone. We have to put buying things made by Indians, being Vocal For Local, into practice," he stated.

PM Modi also urged people to celebrate the upcoming festivals with utmost caution.

"I appeal to all those who have not taken the first dose of COVID19 vaccine yet should be given utmost priority to getting vaccinated. Those who are vaccinated should encourage others," he said.

Urging people to keep following COVID protocols, PM Modi added, "No matter how good the armour is, no matter how modern the armour is, even if armour guarantees complete protection, weapons are not thrown while the battle is on. I request that we have to celebrate our festivals with the utmost care."

Meanwhile, more than 100.59 crore vaccine doses have been administered so far to eligible beneficiaries, as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

( With inputs from ANI )