HYDERABAD:
K.T. Rama Rao, the working president of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and a former minister, delivered a stern warning to both State and Central governments. He emphasized that overlooking the aspirations of India’s youth could spark powerful movements and even revolts.
During an event held by a television news network in Mumbai on Saturday, Rao highlighted the stark contrast between the ambitious dreams of young Indians and the often narrow focus of those in power, who, he claimed, remain preoccupied with issues concerning neighboring Pakistan and Bangladesh.
He sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of employing tactics to divert public attention through emotional appeals.
“Prime Minister Modi has masterfully redirected public focus using perception management and media strategies,” alleged the BRS leader. Rao stressed that India’s vision should extend beyond its less developed neighbors, urging the nation to strive for global leadership alongside economic giants like the West, China, and Japan.
Rao drew a compelling comparison: in 1985, India and China had comparable economies, with per capita incomes around $500 and $300 respectively. “Yet, four decades later, India’s economy stands at $4 trillion with a per capita income of $2,700, while China has soared to a $20 trillion economy with a per capita income of $13,000. We must critically examine why China has surpassed us so significantly,” he challenged the audience.
Shifting focus to regional achievements, Rao proudly showcased Telangana’s rapid development over the past decade. He highlighted key projects in Hyderabad, including the world’s largest lift irrigation project (Kaleshwaram), Amazon’s largest campus, and T-Hub, the globe’s biggest innovation hub.
He also reminded attendees of the profound influence of Generation Z, citing an instance where students from a central university in Telangana successfully pressured the government to retract plans to sell 400 acres of forest land, demonstrating youth power.
Rao encouraged young people to transcend their engagement with digital media and actively step into the realm of politics.
He pointed out that while Indian-origin tech leaders like Sundar Pichai and Satya Nadella helm major American corporations, India itself has yet to foster a single world-class innovation.
“We need more than just venture capital; we need ‘adventure capital’—a willingness to take bold risks,” he declared, underscoring that India’s immense Gen-Z population of 380 million is eager to collaborate with governments to reshape the world.