Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his two-day visit to Australia, addressed a large gathering of the Indian community at the “Melbourne Meets Modi” event. Speaking before around 30,000 people, he highlighted the growing India-Australia relationship, the contribution of the Indian diaspora, India’s development journey, and the country’s achievements in defence and space technology.

PM Modi Highlights Stronger India-Australia Relations

Recalling his first visit to Australia in 2014, PM Modi said it was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in nearly three decades.

He said that at the time, he had promised that people would not have to wait another 28 years for the next visit. He noted that this was his third visit to Australia in 12 years and described it as a sign of strengthening ties between the two nations.

According to him, the Indian diaspora has played the most important role in building stronger relations between India and Australia.

Indian Community Has Added Colours to Melbourne

PM Modi praised the Indian community for making Melbourne more vibrant with Indian culture and traditions.

He said that areas around Melbourne reflect the diversity of India, with many places being popularly described as “Little India” or “Mini India.”

He also highlighted how Indian families living in Australia remain connected with India despite the geographical distance, with technology helping them stay in touch across different time zones.

“Australian Milk, But Indian Tea”

Talking about cultural connections, PM Modi said that Indian traditions continue to thrive in Australia.

He remarked that while families may use Australian milk, the tea prepared in their homes still carries the Indian identity.

He also mentioned cultural activities taking place across Australia, including:

• Religious gatherings

• Gurudwara programmes

• Children’s Bhangra and Bharatanatyam performances

• Cricket tournaments

• Indian film events

He wished success for the upcoming Indian Film Festival in Melbourne.

India Working Towards Becoming a Developed Nation

Speaking about India’s economic progress, PM Modi said that the country is working towards becoming a developed nation.

He said India is among the fastest-growing major economies and aims to become the world’s third-largest economy.

According to him, the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians are driving the country’s growth journey.

India Moving Ahead in Space Technology

PM Modi also spoke about India’s achievements in space exploration.

He highlighted the success of Chandrayaan’s landing near the Moon’s south pole and said India is now preparing for future missions, including:

• Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission

• Development of an Indian space station

He said India continues to pursue bigger goals in science and technology.

PM Modi Mentions Operation Sindoor and Defence Capability

Speaking about Make in India and India’s defence sector, PM Modi said that Indian products are gaining global recognition.

He referred to Operation Sindoor, stating that the world witnessed India’s defence capabilities and the impact of the operation.

He said that India’s defence manufacturing sector has strengthened over the years and that the country is increasingly becoming self-reliant in defence technology.

“India Does Not Look at Passports When Helping”

PM Modi also spoke about India’s humanitarian assistance efforts.

Referring to earthquake relief efforts in Venezuela, he said that India responds to humanitarian crises without considering geographical distance or nationality.

He emphasized that India sees global challenges with a spirit of support and cooperation.

The Bottom Line

PM Modi’s Melbourne address focused on India’s global rise, the role of the diaspora, economic growth, space achievements, defence capabilities, and the deepening partnership between India and Australia.