As we celebrate this special occasion in the UK’s House of Lords committee room, we must remember the sacrifices of the men and women who fought for Indian freedom. Their courage laid the foundations of the nation we see today, and their contribution must never be forgotten. Among these towering figures, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel deserves special recognition for his historic role in uniting India and helping build a strong foundation for the country’s future.
India’s journey to independence followed centuries of foreign conquests and humiliation. Our freedom fighters fought tirelessly to reclaim the right of Indians to determine their own destiny. We owe them an enormous debt of gratitude. Today, as India’s ancient civilisation experiences a revival and its people rediscover their heritage, we should celebrate both the sacrifices of our past and the possibilities of our future.
Look at how far India has come. Independent India is punching above its weight on the global stage. Indian talent is powering some of the world’s biggest companies, with people of Indian origin leading organisations such as Google, Microsoft and Adobe. Our professionals are sought after across continents, and even countries such as Japan are increasingly looking to India for talent. This is a remarkable testament to the ability, enterprise and ambition of our people.
I believe Narendra Modi’s vision has helped give fresh momentum to this national confidence. The Make in India initiative reflects an ambition to strengthen domestic manufacturing, encourage investment and establish India as a global production hub. We are seeing more products made in India and a growing determination to build the country’s economic capabilities. The vision is to ensure that India is not simply a consumer of the world’s products, but an increasingly important producer and innovator.
There is another aspect of India’s independence that deserves greater recognition: the commitment to equality. At a time when women in many parts of the world had limited rights, independent India embraced the principle of equal citizenship. This is something particularly close to my heart. I was raised by my mother, a single parent, and I know first-hand the strength, determination and sacrifice required to bring up a family. Without the principle of equality, women like my mother would have faced even greater barriers. India’s commitment to equal rights has helped create the foundations on which generations of women can build their futures.
As someone of Indian origin who has made Britain his home, I feel an immense sense of pride in India’s achievements. The strengthening of India–UK relations, including the signing of the landmark free trade agreement, represents an important opportunity for both countries. It can deepen commercial ties, encourage investment and create opportunities for businesses and communities on both sides.
For much of my life, I have watched India develop and find its place in the world. Today, I see a country increasingly confident in its identity, its talent and its ambitions.
Seven decades after independence, I can honestly say that I have never felt prouder to be Indian. We must honour those who secured our freedom, celebrate those who are building our future, and ensure that the next generation inherits a country that is united, prosperous and conscious of its extraordinary civilisational heritage.
